reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-61 - Rhode Island Public Telecommunications Authority [See Title 16 Chapter 97 — The Rhode Island Board of Education Act] › Section 16-61-6. - Repealed.

§ 16-61-6. Repealed.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 32, § 4; P.L. 1986, ch. 287, art. 8, § 1; P.L. 2006, ch. 14, § 7; P.L. 2006, ch. 16, § 7; P.L. 2006, ch. 590, § 1; Repealed by P.L. 2013, ch. 144, art. 7, § 1, effective July 1, 2013.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-61 - Rhode Island Public Telecommunications Authority [See Title 16 Chapter 97 — The Rhode Island Board of Education Act] › Section 16-61-6.2. - Repealed.

§ 16-61-6.2. Repealed.
History of Section.
P.L. 2006, ch. 590, § 2; Repealed by P.L. 2013, ch. 144, art. 7, § 1, effective July 1, 2013.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-61 - Rhode Island Public Telecommunications Authority [See Title 16 Chapter 97 — The Rhode Island Board of Education Act] › Section 16-61-7. - Repealed.

§ 16-61-7. Repealed.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 32, § 4; P.L. 1986, ch. 287, art. 8, § 1; Repealed by P.L. 2013, ch. 144, art. 7, § 1, effective July 1, 2013.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-61 - Rhode Island Public Telecommunications Authority [See Title 16 Chapter 97 — The Rhode Island Board of Education Act] › Section 16-61-8. - Repealed.

§ 16-61-8. Repealed.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 32, § 4; Repealed by P.L. 2013, ch. 144, art. 7, § 1, effective July 1, 2013.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-61 - Rhode Island Public Telecommunications Authority [See Title 16 Chapter 97 — The Rhode Island Board of Education Act] › Section 16-61-8.1. - Repealed.

§ 16-61-8.1. Repealed.
History of Section.
P.L. 1988, ch. 571, § 4; P.L. 2001, ch. 86, § 56; P.L. 2011, ch. 151, art. 8, § 4; Repealed by P.L. 2013, ch. 144, art. 7, § 1, effective July 1, 2013.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-61 - Rhode Island Public Telecommunications Authority [See Title 16 Chapter 97 — The Rhode Island Board of Education Act] › Section 16-61-9. - Repealed.

§ 16-61-9. Repealed.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 32, § 4; Repealed by P.L. 2013, ch. 144, art. 7, § 1, effective July 1, 2013.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-61 - Rhode Island Public Telecommunications Authority [See Title 16 Chapter 97 — The Rhode Island Board of Education Act] › Section 16-61-10. - Repealed.

§ 16-61-10. Repealed.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 32, § 4; Repealed by P.L. 2013, ch. 144, art. 7, § 1, effective July 1, 2013.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-61 - Rhode Island Public Telecommunications Authority [See Title 16 Chapter 97 — The Rhode Island Board of Education Act] › Section 16-61-11. - Repealed.

§ 16-61-11. Repealed.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 32, § 4; Repealed by P.L. 2013, ch. 144, art. 7, § 1, effective July 1, 2013.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-61 - Rhode Island Public Telecommunications Authority [See Title 16 Chapter 97 — The Rhode Island Board of Education Act] › Section 16-61-12. - Repealed.

§ 16-61-12. Repealed.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 32, § 4; P.L. 1989, ch. 126, art. 50, § 1; P.L. 2006, ch. 14, § 7; P.L. 2006, ch. 16, § 7; Repealed by P.L. 2013, ch. 144, art. 7, § 1, effective July 1, 2013.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-61 - Rhode Island Public Telecommunications Authority [See Title 16 Chapter 97 — The Rhode Island Board of Education Act] › Section 16-61-13. - Repealed.

§ 16-61-13. Repealed.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 32, § 4; Repealed by P.L. 2013, ch. 144, art. 7, § 1, effective July 1, 2013.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-61 - Rhode Island Public Telecommunications Authority [See Title 16 Chapter 97 — The Rhode Island Board of Education Act] › Section 16-61-14. - Repealed.

§ 16-61-14. Repealed.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 32, § 4; Repealed by P.L. 2013, ch. 144, art. 7, § 1, effective July 1, 2013.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-61 - Rhode Island Public Telecommunications Authority [See Title 16 Chapter 97 — The Rhode Island Board of Education Act] › Section 16-61-15. - Repealed.

§ 16-61-15. Repealed.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 32, § 4; Repealed by P.L. 2013, ch. 144, art. 7, § 1, effective July 1, 2013.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-62 - The Rhode Island Student Loan Authority › Section 16-62-2. - Findings.

§ 16-62-2. Findings.
The purpose of this chapter is to authorize a system of financial assistance, consisting of grants, loans, and other aids, for qualified inhabitants of the state to enable them to obtain a postsecondary education by attending public or private educational institutions both within and without the state. The general assembly has found and declares that it is in the public interest and essential to the welfare and well being of the inhabitants of the state and to the proper growth and development of the state to foster and provide financial assistance to inhabitants of the state, properly qualified for it, in order to help them to obtain a postsecondary education. The general assembly has found that many inhabitants of the state who are fully qualified to enroll in appropriate educational institutions for furthering their education beyond the high school level lack the financial means and are unable, without financial assistance as authorized under this chapter, to pay the cost of that education, with a consequent irreparable loss to the state of valuable talents vital to its welfare. The general assembly has determined that the establishment of a proper system of financial assistance for that objective purpose serves a public purpose and is fully consistent with the long established policy of the state to encourage, promote and assist the education of the people of the state.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 44, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-62 - The Rhode Island Student Loan Authority › Section 16-62-3. - Definitions.

§ 16-62-3. Definitions.
As used in this chapter, the following words and terms shall have the following meanings unless the context shall indicate another or different meaning or intent:
(1)
“Authority” means the governmental agency and public instrumentality authorized, created, and established pursuant to § 16-62-4.
(2)
“Bonds” and “notes” means the bonds, notes, securities, or other obligations or evidences of indebtedness issued by the authority pursuant to this chapter, all of which shall be issued under the name of or known as obligations of the Rhode Island student loan authority.
(3)
“Education loan” means a loan to a student or the parent, legal guardian, or sponsor of the student, or to an eligible institution, for the purpose of financing a student’s attendance at the eligible institution. The loan may provide that the student, parent, legal guardian, or sponsor of the student or eligible institution may be held jointly and severally liable for the education loan.
(4)
“Eligible institution” means, subject to further particular or more restrictive definition by regulation of the authority: (i) an institution of higher learning, (ii) a vocational school, or (iii) with respect to students who are nationals of the United States, an institution outside the United States which is comparable to an institution of higher education or to a vocational school and which has been approved by the authority and by the secretary for purposes of the guaranteed student loan program.
(5)
“Eligible loan” means a loan to a student or to the parent of a student insured or guaranteed by the secretary, Rhode Island division of higher education assistance, or by any other governmental or private agency, corporation, or organization having a reinsurance or guaranty agreement with the secretary applicable to that loan.
(6)
“Guaranteed student loan program” means the program of federal student loan insurance and reinsurance administered by the secretary.
(7)
“Lender” means, subject to further particular or more restrictive definition by regulation of the authority, any governmental or private agency, corporation, organization, or institution (including educational institutions and the authority itself) designated as an “eligible lender” by federal statute, regulation, or administrative ruling for the purposes of the guaranteed student loan program.
(8)
“Secretary” means the United States secretary of education or the secretary of health and human services.
(9)
“State” means the state of Rhode Island.
(10)
“Student” means an individual who under rules promulgated by the authority meets the enrollment and satisfactory progress requirement necessary for making an eligible student loan or an education loan, as applicable. This designation shall include dependent and independent undergraduate students, and graduate and professional students.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 44, § 1; P.L. 1982, ch. 162, § 1; P.L. 1983, ch. 82, § 1; P.L. 1985, ch. 80, § 1; P.L. 1992, ch. 35, § 1; P.L. 2015, ch. 141, art. 7, § 8.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-62 - The Rhode Island Student Loan Authority › Section 16-62-4. - Creation.

§ 16-62-4. Creation.
(a)
There is authorized, created, and established a public corporation of the state having a legal existence distinct from the state and not constituting a department of state government, which is a governmental agency and public instrumentality of the state, to be known as the “Rhode Island student loan authority,” with the powers that are set forth in this chapter, for the purposes of financing education through the making, purchasing, taking, acquiring, or lending against the security of, eligible loans and education loans and of selling eligible loans and education loans made, taken, endorsed, acquired, or purchased by it to governmental or private financial institutions.
(b)
The exercise by the authority of the powers conferred by this chapter shall be deemed and held to be the performance of an essential governmental function of the state for public purposes. It is the intent of the general assembly by the passage of this chapter to vest in the authority all powers, authority, rights, privileges, and titles which may be necessary to enable it to accomplish the purposes set forth in this chapter, and this chapter and the powers granted by it shall be liberally construed in conformity with those purposes.
(c)
The authority and its corporate existence shall continue until terminated by law or until the authority shall cease entirely and continuously to conduct or be involved in any business in furtherance of its purposes, provided that no termination shall take effect so long as the authority shall have bonds, notes, or other obligations outstanding, unless adequate provision shall have been made for their payment pursuant to the documents securing the bonds, notes, or other obligations or to the law. Upon termination of the existence of the authority, all its rights and properties shall pass to and be vested in the state. At no time shall the assets or other property of the authority inure to the benefit of any person or other corporation or entity.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 44, § 1; P.L. 1992, ch. 35, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-62 - The Rhode Island Student Loan Authority › Section 16-62-5. - General powers.

§ 16-62-5. General powers.
The authority shall have all the powers necessary and convenient to carry out and effectuate the purposes and provisions of this chapter, including without limiting the generality of the preceding statement, the power:
(1)
To sue and be sued, complain, and defend, in its corporate name.
(2)
To have a seal which may be altered at pleasure, and to use it by causing it, or a facsimile of it, to be impressed or affixed or in any other manner reproduced.
(3)
To purchase, take, receive, lease, or otherwise acquire, own, hold, improve, use, and deal in and with, real or personal property, or any interest in it, wherever situated.
(4)
To sell, convey, mortgage, pledge, lease, exchange, transfer, and dispose of all or any part of its property and assets for any consideration and upon any terms and conditions as the authority shall determine.
(5)
To make contracts and incur liabilities, and borrow money at any rates of interest as the authority may determine.
(6)
To make and execute all contracts, agreements, and instruments necessary or convenient in the exercise of the powers and functions of the authority granted by this chapter.
(7)
To lend money for its purposes, and invest and reinvest its funds.
(8)
To conduct its activities, carry on its operations, and have offices and exercise the powers granted by this chapter, within or without the state.
(9)
To elect, appoint, or employ in its discretion officers and agents of the authority, and define their duties and fix their compensation.
(10)
To make and alter bylaws, not inconsistent with this chapter, for the administration and regulation of the affairs of the authority, and those bylaws may contain provisions indemnifying any person who is or was a director, officer, employee, or agent of the authority, in the manner and to the extent provided in § 7-1.2-814.
(11)
To have and exercise all powers necessary or convenient to effect its purposes.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 44, § 1; P.L. 2005, ch. 36, § 13; P.L. 2005, ch. 72, § 13.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-62 - The Rhode Island Student Loan Authority › Section 16-62-8. - Loans to minors.

§ 16-62-8. Loans to minors.
Any person qualifying for an eligible loan shall not be disqualified to receive the loan made for or guaranteed by the authority by reason of his being a minor. For the purpose of applying for, securing, receiving, and repaying this loan, any person shall be deemed to have full legal capacity to act and shall have all the rights, powers, privileges, and obligations of a person of full age and respect to it.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 44, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-62 - The Rhode Island Student Loan Authority › Section 16-62-10. - Security for bonds and notes.

§ 16-62-10. Security for bonds and notes.
(a)
The principal of and interest on any bonds or notes issued by the authority may be secured by a pledge or assignment of any revenues, receipts, or assets of the authority and may be secured by a security interest or other instrument covering all or any part of one or more eligible loans or education loans made or acquired by the authority pursuant to the provisions of this chapter.
(b)
The resolution under which the bonds or notes are authorized to be issued and any security interest or other instrument may contain any agreements and provisions respecting the servicing of the loans covered by it, any fixing and collection of payments or repayments or other revenues from these, any creation and maintenance of special funds from those revenues, and any rights and remedies available in the event of default, all as the authority shall deem advisable.
(c)
Each pledge, assignment, agreement, security interest, or other instrument made for the benefit or security of any of the bonds or notes of the authority shall continue in effect until the principal of and interest on the bonds or notes for the benefit of which the pledge or security agreement was made shall have been fully paid, or until provision shall have been made for that payment in the manner provided in the resolution under which the bonds or notes were authorized.
(d)
Any pledge made by the authority shall be valid and binding from the time it is made. The money or property pledged and received after this by the authority shall immediately be subject to the lien of the pledge without physical delivery or further act. The lien of the pledge shall be valid and binding against all parties having a claim in tort, contract, or against the authority, whether or not the parties have notice of the claim. Neither the resolution nor any instrument by which a pledge is created needs to be recorded.
(e)
Any resolution under which bonds or notes of authority are authorized to be issued, and any trust indenture established by it, may contain provisions for vesting in a trustee or trustees any properties, rights, powers, and duties in trust as the authority may determine.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 44, § 1; P.L. 1992, ch. 35, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-62 - The Rhode Island Student Loan Authority › Section 16-62-11. - Trust funds.

§ 16-62-11. Trust funds.
All money received pursuant to the authority of this chapter, whether as proceeds from the sale of bonds or notes or as revenues, receipts, or income, shall be trust funds to be held and applied solely as provided in the proceedings under which the bonds or notes are authorized. Any officer with whom, or any bank or trust company with which, any money shall be deposited as trustee of it shall hold and apply the money for its purposes, subject to the applicable provisions of this chapter, the proceedings authorizing the bonds or notes, and the trust agreement securing those bonds or notes, if any.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 44, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-62 - The Rhode Island Student Loan Authority › Section 16-62-12. - Exemption from taxation.

§ 16-62-12. Exemption from taxation.
(a)
The exercise of the powers granted by this chapter will be in all respects for the benefit of the people of this state, the increase of their commerce, welfare, and prosperity, and for the improvement of their living conditions, and will constitute the performance of an essential government function; and the authority shall not be required to pay any taxes or assessments upon or in respect of any transaction or of any property or money of the authority levied by any municipality or political subdivision of the state.
(b)
The authority shall not be required to pay state taxes of any kind, and the authority, its property, and money, and, except for estate, inheritance, and gift taxes, any bonds or notes issued under the provisions of this chapter and the income, including gain from sale or exchange from it shall at all times be free from taxation of every kind by the state and by the municipalities and all political subdivisions of the state. The authority shall not be required to pay any transfer tax of any kind on account of instruments recorded by it or on its behalf.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 44, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-62 - The Rhode Island Student Loan Authority › Section 16-62-13. - Notes and bonds as legal investments.

§ 16-62-13. Notes and bonds as legal investments.
The notes and bonds of the authority are made securities in which all public officers and bodies of this state and all municipalities and municipal subdivisions, including, but not limited to, the authority, all companies and associations and other persons carrying on an insurance business, all banks, bankers, trust companies, savings banks and savings associations, including savings and loan associations, building and loan associations, investment companies, and other persons carrying on a banking business, all administrators, guardians, executors, trustees, and other fiduciaries, and all other persons who are now or may after this be authorized to invest in bonds or other obligations of the state, may properly and legally invest funds, including capital, in their control or belonging to them.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 44, § 1; P.L. 2016, ch. 374, § 1; P.L. 2016, ch. 375, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-62 - The Rhode Island Student Loan Authority › Section 16-62-14. - Bondholders’ rights not to be affected by state.

§ 16-62-14. Bondholders’ rights not to be affected by state.
The state does pledge to and agree with the holders of any bonds or notes issued under this chapter that the state will not limit or alter the rights vested in the authority to fulfill the terms of any agreements made with the holders until those bonds or notes, together with their interest, with interest on any unpaid installments of interest, and all costs and expenses in connection with any action or proceeding by or on behalf of those holders, are fully met and discharged. The authority is authorized to include this pledge and agreement of the state in any agreement with the holders of those bonds or notes.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 44, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-62 - The Rhode Island Student Loan Authority › Section 16-62-15. - Credit of state.

§ 16-62-15. Credit of state.
Obligations issued under the provisions of this chapter shall not constitute a debt, liability, or obligation of the state or of any political subdivision of the state other than the authority or a pledge of the faith and credit of the state or any political subdivision other than the authority, but shall be payable solely from the revenues or assets of the authority. Each obligation issued under this chapter shall contain on its face a statement to the effect that the authority shall not be obligated to pay the obligation or its interest except from revenues or assets pledged for it and that neither the faith and credit nor the taxing power of the state or any political subdivision of the state other than the authority is pledged to the payment of the principal of or the interest on the obligation.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 44, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-62 - The Rhode Island Student Loan Authority › Section 16-62-16. - Authorization to accept appropriated money.

§ 16-62-16. Authorization to accept appropriated money.
The authority is authorized to accept any money as may be appropriated by the general assembly for effectuating its corporate purposes including, without limitation, the payment of the initial expenses of administration and operation and the establishment of reserves or contingency funds to be available for the payment of the principal of and the interest on any bonds, notes, or other obligations of the authority.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 44, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-62 - The Rhode Island Student Loan Authority › Section 16-62-17. - Assistance by state officers, departments, boards, and commissions.

§ 16-62-17. Assistance by state officers, departments, boards, and commissions.
(a)
All state agencies may render any services to the authority within their functions as may be requested by the authority.
(b)
Upon request of the authority, any state agency is authorized and empowered to transfer to the authority any officers and employees as it may deem necessary to assist the authority in carrying out its functions and duties under this chapter. Officers and employees transferred shall not lose their civil service status or rights.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 44, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-62 - The Rhode Island Student Loan Authority › Section 16-62-18. - Annual report.

§ 16-62-18. Annual report.
Within six (6) months after the close of its fiscal year the board shall approve and submit an annual report to the governor, the speaker of the house of representatives, the president of the senate, and the secretary of state of its activities during that fiscal year. The report shall provide: an operating statement summarizing meetings or hearings held, meeting minutes if requested, subjects addressed, decisions rendered, rules or regulations promulgated, studies conducted, policies and plans developed, approved, or modified, and programs administered or initiated; a consolidated financial statement of all funds received and expended including the source of the funds, a listing of any staff supported by these funds, and a summary of any clerical, administrative or technical support received; a summary of performance during the previous fiscal year including accomplishments, shortcomings and remedies; a synopsis of hearings, complaints, suspensions, or other legal matters related to the authority; a summary of any training courses held pursuant to this chapter; a briefing on anticipated activities in the upcoming fiscal year; and findings and recommendations for improvements. The report shall be posted electronically on the general assembly and the secretary of state’s websites as prescribed in § 42-20-8.2. The director of the department of administration shall be responsible for the enforcement of this provision. The authority shall cause an audit of its books and accounts to be made at least once each fiscal year by certified public accountants selected by it and the its cost shall be paid by the authority from funds available to it pursuant to this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 44, § 1; P.L. 2005, ch. 241, § 8; P.L. 2005, ch. 319, § 8.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-62 - The Rhode Island Student Loan Authority › Section 16-62-19. - Inconsistent provisions.

§ 16-62-19. Inconsistent provisions.
When any provisions of this chapter are inconsistent with the provisions of any other law or ordinance, general, special, or local, the provisions of this chapter shall be controlling.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 44, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-62 - The Rhode Island Student Loan Authority › Section 16-62-20. - Supplemental nature of powers — Issuance of bonds and notes governed by this chapter.

§ 16-62-20. Supplemental nature of powers — Issuance of bonds and notes governed by this chapter.
Nothing contained in this chapter shall restrict or limit the powers of the authority arising under any laws of this state. This chapter shall be construed to provide a complete additional and alternative method for doing the things authorized by it and shall be regarded as supplemental and in addition to the powers conferred by other laws. The issuance of all bonds, notes, and other obligations of the authority under the provisions of this chapter need not comply with the requirements of any other statute applicable to the issuance of bonds, notes, or other obligations. No proceedings or notice of approval shall be required for the issuance of any bonds, notes, and other obligations or any instruments of security for these except as provided in this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 44, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-62 - The Rhode Island Student Loan Authority › Section 16-62-21. - Construction.

§ 16-62-21. Construction.
This chapter being necessary for the welfare of the state and its inhabitants shall be liberally construed to effectuate its purposes.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 44, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-62 - The Rhode Island Student Loan Authority › Section 16-62-22. - Severability.

§ 16-62-22. Severability.
If any clause, sentence, paragraph, section, or part of this chapter shall be adjudged by any court of competent jurisdiction to be invalid, that judgment shall not affect, impair, or invalidate the remainder of this chapter but shall be confined in its operation to the clause, sentence, paragraph, section, or part directly involved in the controversy in which the judgment shall have been rendered.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 44, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-62.1 - Nursing Loan Repayment Program › Section 16-62.1-1. - Legislative findings.

§ 16-62.1-1. Legislative findings.
The purpose of this chapter is to provide an incentive, in the form of interest reduction on certain types of education loans, to students who desire to serve the health care needs of individuals in Rhode Island by enrolling in a registered nurse training program. The general assembly has found and hereby declares that it is in the public interest and essential to the welfare and well being of the inhabitants of the state that a sufficient number of registered nurses be attracted to Rhode Island to serve the health care needs of our population. The general assembly further finds that there is a growing shortage of qualified registered nurses to meet the needs of the state’s population. The general assembly determines that it is vital to the welfare of the state’s citizenry that an incentive be provided to attract and retain registered nurses in the state to meet their needs.
History of Section.
P.L. 2001, ch. 332, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-62.1 - Nursing Loan Repayment Program › Section 16-62.1-2. - Definitions.

§ 16-62.1-2. Definitions.
For the purpose of this chapter, the following terms shall have the following meanings unless the context clearly requires otherwise:
(1)
“Authority” means the governmental agency and public instrumentality authorized, created and established pursuant to § 16-62-4.
(2)
“Eligible registered nurse” means an individual who holds a valid Rhode Island license to practice as a professional registered nurse and who works as a registered nurse in this state and can document that they work at least half time (average of twenty (20) hours per week).
(3)
“Loan” means a federal Stafford (FFELP) loan made by the authority or one of its participating lenders, issued after July 1, 2000 and not in default.
(4)
“Eligible employment” shall mean employment as a registered nurse responsible for patient care at any Rhode Island licensed health care facility, including, but not limited to, hospitals, nursing homes and home nursing care providers.
History of Section.
P.L. 2001, ch. 332, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-62.1 - Nursing Loan Repayment Program › Section 16-62.1-3. - Interest forgiveness on loans.

§ 16-62.1-3. Interest forgiveness on loans.
An eligible registered nurse shall be eligible to have the interest on his or her loan forgiven for each year he or she has eligible employment in the state up to a maximum of four (4) years and prior to the termination of this program.
History of Section.
P.L. 2001, ch. 332, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-62.1 - Nursing Loan Repayment Program › Section 16-62.1-4. - Application for loan interest forgiveness.

§ 16-62.1-4. Application for loan interest forgiveness.
Any individual seeking interest forgiveness pursuant to the provisions of this chapter shall apply to the authority on forms prescribed by the authority containing any information that the authority deems advisable to fulfill the provisions of this program. The authority’s executive director, or his or her designee, shall determine the eligibility of each applicant.
History of Section.
P.L. 2001, ch. 332, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-62.1 - Nursing Loan Repayment Program › Section 16-62.1-5. - Continued eligibility.

§ 16-62.1-5. Continued eligibility.
Any individual deemed eligible shall not less than annually submit to the authority any information that the authority may prescribe to determine the individual’s continued eligibility for the interest forgiveness on his or her eligible loan under this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 2001, ch. 332, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-62.1 - Nursing Loan Repayment Program › Section 16-62.1-6. - Penalty for failure to maintain eligibility.

§ 16-62.1-6. Penalty for failure to maintain eligibility.
In the event the authority determines that an individual is no longer eligible for the interest forgiveness on his or her loan as provided in this chapter, that individual shall be required to pay the holder of his or her loan forthwith all accrued interest and any late payment penalties which have accrued during the period of the ineligibility.
History of Section.
P.L. 2001, ch. 332, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-62.1 - Nursing Loan Repayment Program › Section 16-62.1-7. - Regulations.

§ 16-62.1-7. Regulations.
The authority may promulgate any regulations that it deems necessary to implement the provisions of this interest forgiveness program.
History of Section.
P.L. 2001, ch. 332, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-62.1 - Nursing Loan Repayment Program › Section 16-62.1-8. - No adverse effect on authority’s bond issues or rating.

§ 16-62.1-8. No adverse effect on authority’s bond issues or rating.
Notwithstanding any provision of this chapter to the contrary, to the extent, if any, that this interest forgiveness program shall have any material adverse effect on the authority’s ability to issue negotiable bonds and notes, the authority shall be empowered to suspend this program on a prospective basis, provided that any individual who has previously been determined to be eligible for the program’s benefits shall retain their eligibility up to the maximum period prescribed in this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 2001, ch. 332, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-62.1 - Nursing Loan Repayment Program › Section 16-62.1-9. - Severability of provisions.

§ 16-62.1-9. Severability of provisions.
The provisions of this chapter are severable. If any provisions are deemed invalid by a court of competent jurisdiction, that determination shall not affect the validity of the remaining provisions.
History of Section.
P.L. 2001, ch. 332, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-62.1 - Nursing Loan Repayment Program › Section 16-62.1-10. - Termination of interest forgiveness on December 31, 2010.

§ 16-62.1-10. Termination of interest forgiveness on December 31, 2010.
The interest benefits granted under this program shall cease after December 31, 2010.
History of Section.
P.L. 2001, ch. 332, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-63 - Adult Education [See Title 16 Chapter 97 — The Rhode Island Board of Education Act] › Section 16-63-1. - Short title.

§ 16-63-1. Short title.
This chapter shall be known and may be cited as the “Adult Education Act”.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 416, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-63 - Adult Education [See Title 16 Chapter 97 — The Rhode Island Board of Education Act] › Section 16-63-2. - Legislative findings and policy.

§ 16-63-2. Legislative findings and policy.
(a)
The general assembly, in accordance with the constitution of the state, R.I. Const., Art. XII, § 1, which obligates the state “to secure to the people the advantages and opportunities of education,” and also pursuant to R.I. Const., Art. XII, § 4, which requires it to “make all necessary provisions by law for carrying this article into effect,” finds:
(1)
That all citizens, regardless of age, have the right to education;
(2)
That education is a lifelong pursuit;
(3)
That basic education and general personal development are necessary to enjoy a wholesome life; and
(4)
That vocational training is useful in acquiring a marketable skill and achieving economic self-sufficiency.
(b)
The general assembly declares:
(1)
That the public laws shall address the education needs of adults and young people;
(2)
That an integrated and coordinated adult education delivery system shall be provided and maintained on a statewide basis; and
(3)
That public funds shall be appropriated to support that delivery system and fulfill the constitutional mandate.
(c)
All adult education programs and services provided by any department or agency of the state of Rhode Island or local government, or funded in whole or in part by state funds, shall be offered in the least restrictive environment, be designed to enhance the quality of life for adult learners, and be consistent with and inclusive of the following values that reflect the preferences and needs of adult learners;
(1)
Adult learners shall be treated with dignity and respect;
(2)
Adult learners shall be included in policy development affecting adult education;
(3)
Adult learners shall be offered services that are cost-effective and meet the learners’ needs;
(4)
Adult learners shall have access to testing, evaluation and requisite accommodation for learning and/or other disabilities;
(5)
Adult learners shall be fully informed about the educational choices available to them;
(6)
Adult learners shall participate in decisions about their educational process, including information exchange and goal setting;
(7)
Adult learners shall be provided with educational programming commensurate with their abilities, including but not limited to basic skills, vocational education, and/or secondary education or its recognized equivalent;
(8)
Adult learners shall receive consistent, sustained quality in their education.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 416, § 1; P.L. 1999, ch. 240, § 1; P.L. 1999, ch. 298, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-63 - Adult Education [See Title 16 Chapter 97 — The Rhode Island Board of Education Act] › Section 16-63-3. - Definitions.

§ 16-63-3. Definitions.
For the purposes of this chapter the following terms have the following meanings:
(1)
“Adult education” means all the concerns and activities within the definition in § 16-58-2;
(2)
“Board” means the board of regents for elementary and secondary education created pursuant to § 16-60-1;
(3)
“Bureau” means the bureau of adult and vocational education within the department;
(4)
“Commission” means the Rhode Island adult education commission established pursuant to § 16-58-1;
(5)
“Commissioner” means the commissioner of the department of elementary and secondary education;
(6)
“Coordinator” means the state coordinator of adult education;
(7)
“Department” means the department of elementary and secondary education;
(8)
“Office” means the office of adult education within the bureau.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 416, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-63 - Adult Education [See Title 16 Chapter 97 — The Rhode Island Board of Education Act] › Section 16-63-4. - Rights of adults.

§ 16-63-4. Rights of adults.
The applicable provisions of the laws of the state or local governments, and of any regulations or policies arising from these, shall be construed to include adults and young persons as the recipients and beneficiaries of education; adults shall not be subject to compulsory attendance pursuant to chapter 19 of this title. Provided, nothing in this chapter shall be construed as a mandate to any city or town to provide any compulsory educational program nor shall requirements contained in this chapter supplant requirements for the education of individuals with disabilities between the ages of eighteen (18) and twenty-one (21) years pursuant to §§ 16-24-1 and 16-24-2.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 416, § 1; P.L. 1999, ch. 83, § 37; P.L. 1999, ch. 130, § 37.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-63 - Adult Education [See Title 16 Chapter 97 — The Rhode Island Board of Education Act] › Section 16-63-6. - Office of adult education — Coordinator.

§ 16-63-6. Office of adult education — Coordinator.
The board of regents, at its discretion, may assign the advocacy, coordinating, and communicative functions of adult education, as defined in § 16-58-2 and in this chapter, to an office of adult education within the bureau. The office may be headed by a coordinator of adult education.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 416, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-63 - Adult Education [See Title 16 Chapter 97 — The Rhode Island Board of Education Act] › Section 16-63-8. - State plan for adult education.

§ 16-63-8. State plan for adult education.
The department shall develop a state plan for adult education, which shall be a document containing: (1) current needs assessment data, (2) statements of the policies, procedures, regulations, and program activities contemplated for carrying out the intent of this chapter, and (3) prevailing or anticipated budgetary and fiscal conditions applicable to it. The state plan also shall contain all the elements prescribed by the federal Adult Education Act, 20 U.S.C. § 1201 et seq., the federal Vocational Education Act, 20 U.S.C. § 2301 et seq., and other applicable federal laws, and any amendments to it, extensions of it, or successor legislation. The state plan shall be renewed every three (3) years, and may be amended or updated annually. The plan and any renewals, amendments, or updates of it shall be subject to approval by the commission, commissioner, and the board.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 416, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-63 - Adult Education [See Title 16 Chapter 97 — The Rhode Island Board of Education Act] › Section 16-63-9. - Delivery system.

§ 16-63-9. Delivery system.
(a)
Adult education throughout the state shall be delivered through the appropriate utilization of a combination of agencies, institutions, organizations, and other mechanisms and settings, including but not necessarily limited to the following:
(1)
The schools and other facilities maintained by local education authorities, pursuant to chapter 2 of this title, or area combinations of it, in accordance with chapter 3 of this title and this chapter;
(2)
The area vocational-technical schools, maintained and conducted in accordance with chapter 45 of this title;
(3)
The state operated institutions of higher education, including the University of Rhode Island, Rhode Island College, and the community college system, maintained in accordance with chapters 31 through 33.1 and chapter 44 of this title;
(4)
Private and proprietary academies, colleges, universities, and other institutions of secondary and higher education operated in accordance with chapter 40 of this title;
(5)
Correspondence schools, home study, and related courses available to residents of the state in accordance with chapter 50 of this title;
(6)
The custodial, correctional, and curative institutions referenced in this chapter;
(7)
The state’s interrelated library system;
(8)
Community based private, nonprofit, and proprietary agencies and facilities maintained and operated fully or partially for the purpose of providing adult education programs and services;
(9)
Employment settings in business and industry; and
(10)
The broadcast and cable system media referenced in this chapter.
(b)
The listing in subsection (a) of an agency, institution, organization, or other entity shall not, in itself, constitute it as being under the administrative control of the board, department, or office.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 416, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-63 - Adult Education [See Title 16 Chapter 97 — The Rhode Island Board of Education Act] › Section 16-63-10. - Community education.

§ 16-63-10. Community education.
(a)
Adult education programs and services, to the extent feasible, shall be designed and implemented in accordance with a local control model, commonly known as “community education,” as set forth in the former federal Community Schools and Comprehensive Community Education Act, title VIII of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, formerly codified at 20 U.S.C. § 3281 et seq., and any amendments to it, extensions of it, or successor legislation.
(b)
There shall be citizen participation in determining needs and interests and in planning, organizing, overseeing, and evaluating adult education programs and services. This participation shall be effected through advisory councils which shall be established to serve particular cities and towns, or combinations of these, or service districts pursuant to the provisions of this chapter.
(c)
Local education authorities shall be involved directly and substantially, but not necessarily solely or primarily, in the administration and operation of local or area adult education programs and services. Adult education activities shall be conducted in coordination with other human services at the state, area, and community levels. There shall be maximum utilization of all appropriate public buildings, facilities, and resources.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 416, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-63 - Adult Education [See Title 16 Chapter 97 — The Rhode Island Board of Education Act] › Section 16-63-11. - Cooperative agreements.

§ 16-63-11. Cooperative agreements.
The office shall encourage cooperative agreements among agencies, within and outside the department, and among appropriate institutions, organizations, and other entities, in the public and private sectors, in order to foster and bring about a coordinated adult education delivery system throughout the state, as prescribed in this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 416, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-63 - Adult Education [See Title 16 Chapter 97 — The Rhode Island Board of Education Act] › Section 16-63-12. - Study of adult basic education entitlement.

§ 16-63-12. Study of adult basic education entitlement.
The commission, as part of the comprehensive study prescribed in § 16-58-6(3), shall study the legal, financial, societal, personal, and other implications of the possible future enactment of an adult basic education entitlement.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 416, § 1; P.L. 1982, ch. 421, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-63 - Adult Education [See Title 16 Chapter 97 — The Rhode Island Board of Education Act] › Section 16-63-13. - Adult education financing.

§ 16-63-13. Adult education financing.
The cost of providing adult education programs and services shall be met by federal, state, and local government resources, and by tuition and fees to be paid by participants according to the categories of programs and services, as further set forth in this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 416, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-63 - Adult Education [See Title 16 Chapter 97 — The Rhode Island Board of Education Act] › Section 16-63-14. - Appropriations of state funds.

§ 16-63-14. Appropriations of state funds.
(a)
The general assembly shall make certain annual appropriations of state funds, for the purposes of adult education, as part of the total appropriations to the department, as prescribed in § 16-5-22.
(b)
The state controller is authorized to draw his or her orders upon the general treasurer for the payment of the state’s obligations arising from this chapter, or so much of the sum as may be required upon receipt by him or her of vouchers properly authenticated by the commission.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 416, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-63 - Adult Education [See Title 16 Chapter 97 — The Rhode Island Board of Education Act] › Section 16-63-15. - Local support.

§ 16-63-15. Local support.
(a)
The school committee of each district established pursuant to § 16-7-16(5), in order to insure that adults receive their adequate share of education programs and services, shall be encouraged to allocate local funds within its annual budgets to support appropriate activities within categories 1, 2, 5, and 7, as defined in this chapter.
(b)
These allocations for adult education shall not necessarily constitute funds which would not be appropriated by or for the district, and shall be fully included in the calculation and payment of foundation level school support, also known as state aid to education, in accordance with chapter 7 of this title, but shall not be subject to the provisions of §§ 45-13-7 through 45-13-10.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 416, § 1.