reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-21 - Health and Safety of Pupils › Section 16-21-3.1. - Approval.

§ 16-21-3.1. Approval.
(a)
It shall be the duty of the superintendent of schools, private school official, or in the case of state operated schools, the responsibility of the director of the state operated school, to ensure that schools are not opened until notification is received from the aforementioned agencies that the schools are in compliance with their respective codes.
(b)
Neglect by any superintendent, private school official, or the director of any state operated school to comply with the provisions of this section shall be a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of not exceeding five hundred dollars ($500).
History of Section.
P.L. 1986, ch. 337, § 3; P.L. 2021, ch. 395, § 4, effective July 14, 2021.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-21 - Health and Safety of Pupils › Section 16-21-5. - Uniform fire code or drill tactics — Reports.

§ 16-21-5. Uniform fire code or drill tactics — Reports.
(a)
It shall be the duty of the department of elementary and secondary education or the office of higher education, as appropriate, to formulate a uniform fire code or drill tactics to be used in all schools in accordance with § 16-21-4 and to furnish a sufficient number of copies for use in all schools together with forms for reporting to the fire department of the city or town in which the schools are located and to the department or office. These forms shall be furnished by the department or office to all schools and shall be substantially as follows:
State of Rhode Island
Name of school .........................................
Principal or person in charge .........................................
Date drill is held ............ day of week ............ time alarm sounded............ a.m. p.m.
Time taken to empty building ..........  minutes ............ seconds
Total time elapsed before school work is resumed ............ minutes ............ seconds
Type of drill ...... check one ...... obstructed ......... unobstructed .........
Signal used .........................................
Number of fire alarm button or station used .........................................
Name of person sounding alarm .........................................
Weather conditions .........................................
Temperature .........................................
Remarks .........................................
(b)
In the case of colleges, universities, and postsecondary institutions, these reports shall remain on the premises available for review by fire officials.
History of Section.
G.L. 1909, ch. 68, § 11; P.L. 1912, ch. 797, § 1; G.L. 1923, ch. 71, § 11; G.L. 1938, ch. 180, § 11; impl. am. P.L. 1951, ch. 2752, § 21; G.L. 1956, § 16-21-5; P.L. 1959, ch. 132, § 1; P.L. 1978, ch. 215, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-21 - Health and Safety of Pupils › Section 16-21-5.1. - Carbon monoxide detectors required in school buildings.

§ 16-21-5.1. Carbon monoxide detectors required in school buildings.
Effective January 1, 2019, all school buildings where students are in attendance for any portion of the day shall be required to have carbon monoxide detectors installed and maintained therein, in accordance with the applicable provisions of the National Fire Protection Association (“NFPA”) Code and the state fire safety code (“state code”), chapter 28.1 of title 23. The fire safety code board of appeal and review (the “board”) established pursuant to chapter 28.3 of title 23 shall have authority to promulgate rules and regulations necessary to enforce the provisions of this section. Provided, in the event the state fire marshal determines that neither the NFPA code nor the state code have provisions in place to govern the installation, then the state fire marshal may use the provisions of NFPA Code 1/NFPA 101, 2015 editions, NFPA Code 720, 2012 edition, the state fire code, and any additional requirements provided under those codes for licensed nursery or daycare services, as guidance in the installation of carbon monoxide detectors in schools, until such time as the board promulgates applicable rules and regulations.
History of Section.
P.L. 2018, ch. 117, § 1; P.L. 2018, ch. 202, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-21 - Health and Safety of Pupils › Section 16-21-6. - Repealed.

§ 16-21-6. Repealed.
History of Section.
G.L. 1909, ch. 68, § 12; P.L. 1912, ch. 797, § 1; G.L. 1923, ch. 71, § 12; G.L. 1938, ch. 180, § 12; G.L. 1956, § 16-21-6; Repealed by P.L. 1978, ch. 215, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-21 - Health and Safety of Pupils › Section 16-21-8. - Certified nurse-teacher.

§ 16-21-8. Certified nurse-teacher.
(a)
Except as provided in subsection (b) of this section, each school system shall employ certified nurse-teacher personnel certified by the state department of elementary and secondary education; provided, however, that this section shall not apply to those school districts that are currently allowed to share certified nurse-teacher personnel by the department of elementary and secondary education. The school health program as defined in § 16-21-7 shall only be staffed by certified nurse-teacher personnel.
(b)
Any person who, as of August 1, 2021, is employed in a Rhode Island school district pursuant to an all grades registered school nurse certificate, but who does not meet the requirements of subsection (a) of this section, shall be deemed grandfathered into that school district and may continue to be employed pursuant to that all grades registered school nurse certificate within that same school district. If a person so employed seeks employment in another Rhode Island school district as a school nurse-teacher after August 1, 2021, that person shall be subject to the provisions of subsection (a) of this section.
(c)
Each elementary or secondary school with a school-based health center on site shall employ or have on staff certified nurse-teacher personnel certified by the state department of elementary and secondary education to be on site and/or available for consultation, at a minimum, during the school-based health center hours of operation.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 116, § 1; P.L. 1977, ch. 271, § 1; P.L. 2021, ch. 218, § 1, effective August 1, 2021; P.L. 2021, ch. 219, § 1, effective August 1, 2021; P.L. 2021, ch. 351, § 3, effective July 12, 2021; P.L. 2021, ch. 352, § 3, effective July 12, 2021.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-21 - Health and Safety of Pupils › Section 16-21-10. - Scoliosis screening.

§ 16-21-10. Scoliosis screening.
The school health program shall provide for the yearly screening or examination for scoliosis of all school children in grades six (6) through eight (8) and the preservation of records of the screening or examinations of those children. The parent or guardian of any child in grades six (6) through eight (8) may have the screening or examination conducted by a private physician and the results shall be made available to the local school department. Otherwise, the screening shall be conducted by a certified nurse-teacher. The screening of male and female pupils shall be conducted separately. The parent or guardian of any child who is found to have positive signs or symptoms of scoliosis shall be notified of the findings. However, the test shall not be required of any student whose parents or guardian objects on the ground that the test conflicts with their religious belief.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 399, § 1; P.L. 1983, ch. 19, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-21 - Health and Safety of Pupils › Section 16-21-11. - Repealed.

§ 16-21-11. Repealed.
History of Section.
G.L. 1938, ch. 182, § 2; P.L. 1948, ch. 2103, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 16-21-10; Repealed by P.L. 1961, ch. 133, § 5.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-21 - Health and Safety of Pupils › Section 16-21-12. - Dental treatment provided by town or city.

§ 16-21-12. Dental treatment provided by town or city.
The school committee may provide at the expense of the town or city proper dental treatment for children, found to be suffering from dental defects or conditions arising from dental defects, whose parents or guardians or custodians neglect to provide proper dental treatment within one month after receiving a notice of the need as required by § 16-21-9.
History of Section.
P.L. 1917, ch. 1484, § 2; G.L. 1923, ch. 78, § 5; G.L. 1938, ch. 182, § 5; G.L. 1956, § 16-21-12; P.L. 1961, ch. 133, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-21 - Health and Safety of Pupils › Section 16-21-13. - Repealed.

§ 16-21-13. Repealed.
History of Section.
P.L. 1912, ch. 816, § 1; G.L. 1923, ch. 78, § 7; G.L. 1938, ch. 182, § 7; G.L. 1956, § 16-21-13; Repealed by P.L. 1996, ch. 404, § 14, effective August 9, 1996.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-21 - Health and Safety of Pupils › Section 16-21-14. - Hearing, speech, and vision screenings — Records — Statewide hearing screening program.

§ 16-21-14. Hearing, speech, and vision screenings — Records — Statewide hearing screening program.
(a)
The program shall provide for screenings of the hearing, speech, and vision of all children in these schools, and the preservation of records of the screenings of the children and notification of the parent or guardian of any child where there is an identified or suspected special health care need.
(b)
Upon initial entry, all school children shall be given a hearing screening test by a properly trained professional employed by the department of elementary and secondary education, at intervals consistent with regulations promulgated by the director of health and the commissioner of elementary and secondary education.
(c)
Pupils who failed the hearing screening test in previous years, repeat a grade, have a history of hearing difficulty or pathology, or are suspected by school personnel of a hearing loss shall be screened as often as is necessary.
(d)
The program shall be known as the statewide hearing screening program. It shall be operated by the department of elementary and secondary education.
(e)
The department is authorized and directed to maintain the program and provide equipment that may be necessary to implement the purposes of this section.
(f)
Upon request from a local education agency the commissioner of elementary and secondary education may grant the local education agency permission to conduct its own hearing screening program after he or she first determines that the agency has a capacity to adhere to the screening schedule as outlined in this section and that properly trained professionals defined in regulation will be performing the activities.
(g)
Tests shall not be required of any student whose parent or guardian objects on the ground that the tests conflict with their religious beliefs.
History of Section.
P.L. 1961, ch. 133, § 3; P.L. 1962, ch. 94, § 1; P.L. 1977, ch. 114, § 1; P.L. 1988, ch. 84, § 50; P.L. 2000, ch. 197, § 1; P.L. 2000, ch. 242, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-21 - Health and Safety of Pupils › Section 16-21-14.1. - Vision screening.

§ 16-21-14.1. Vision screening.
(a)
Upon entering kindergarten or within thirty (30) days of the start of the school year, the parent or guardian of each child shall present to school health personnel certification that the child, within the previous twelve (12) months has passed a vision screening conducted by a health care professional licensed by the department of health or has obtained a comprehensive eye examination performed by a licensed optometrist or ophthalmologist. For children who fail to pass the vision screening and for children diagnosed with neurodevelopmental delay, proof of a comprehensive eye examination performed by a licensed optometrist or ophthalmologist indicating any pertinent diagnosis, treatment, prognosis, recommendation and evidence of follow-up treatment, if necessary, shall be provided.
(b)
Any person who conducts a comprehensive eye examination of a child in response to such child having failed a vision screening given in accordance with the provisions of this section shall forward a written report of the results of the examination to the school health personnel and a copy of said report to a parent or guardian of such child and the child’s primary health care provider. Said report shall include, but not be limited to, the following:
(1)
Date of report;
(2)
Name, address and date of birth of the child;
(3)
Name of the child’s school;
(4)
Type of examination;
(5)
A summary of significant findings, including diagnoses, medication used, duration of action of medication, treatment, prognosis, whether or not a return visit is recommended and, if so, when;
(6)
Recommended educational adjustments for the child, if any, which may include the following: preferential seating in the classroom, eyeglasses for full-time use in school, eyeglasses for part-time use in school, sight-saving eyeglasses or any other recommendations;
(7)
Name, address and signature of the examiner.
(c)
The department of health in consultation with the department of education shall promulgate regulations to carry out the purposes of this section, including the regular reporting to the departments of health and education on the results of examinations provided under subsection (b) above.
(d)
The commissioner of elementary and secondary education shall provide a comprehensive report on the education of blind and visually impaired children to the general assembly prior to March 1, 2009. The report shall include, but not limited to, an overview of policies and programs; an analysis of the effect that vision exam reports have had on improving education for children; and the comprehensive statewide vision education and services program; and recommendations. The commissioner shall provide an update of said analysis and report to the general assembly prior to March 1, 2012 and every three (3) years thereafter.
History of Section.
P.L. 2005, ch. 382, § 1; P.L. 2013, ch. 501, § 31.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-21 - Health and Safety of Pupils › Section 16-21-15. - Eye protective devices.

§ 16-21-15. Eye protective devices.
(a)
Every student and teacher in a public or private school, college, or university participating in any of the courses listed in subdivisions (1) and (2) of this subsection shall be required to wear approved eye protective devices at all times while participating in the courses or laboratories. The devices shall be furnished by their respective schools, colleges, and universities to all students, teachers, and visitors to the following classrooms and laboratories:
(1)
Vocational or industrial arts shops or laboratories involving experience with:
(i)
Hot molten metals;
(ii)
Milling, sawing, turning, shaping, cutting, grinding, or stamping of any solid materials;
(iii)
Heat treatment, tempering, or kiln firing of any metal or other materials;
(iv)
Gas or electric arc welding;
(v)
Repair or servicing of any vehicle;
(vi)
Caustic or explosive materials;
(2)
Chemical or combined chemical-physical laboratories involving caustic or explosive chemicals or hot liquids or solids.
(b)
The director of labor and training shall promulgate regulations and standards assuring the use of devices which will protect the eyes of teachers, pupils, and visitors against injury from foreign substances, and each public or private school, college, and university shall, before furnishing eye protective devices, obtain approval of the devices from the director of labor and training.
History of Section.
P.L. 1966, ch. 185, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-21 - Health and Safety of Pupils › Section 16-21-16. - Students suspected of narcotic addiction.

§ 16-21-16. Students suspected of narcotic addiction.
Any teacher having reasonable cause to suspect that a secondary or elementary student under eighteen (18) years of age is addicted to a narcotic drug or under the influence of a dangerous drug who reports this information to the appropriate secondary or elementary school officials pursuant to the school’s drug policy, or if the school has no drug policy to the school’s principal or the parents of the student under eighteen (18) years of age, shall have immunity from any civil liability that might otherwise be incurred or imposed as a result of the making of the report.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 306, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-21 - Health and Safety of Pupils › Section 16-21-17. - School bus safety programs.

§ 16-21-17. School bus safety programs.
Every school department shall provide school bus safety instructions for all children in grades kindergarten through six (6). The instruction shall take place at least four (4) times per year, two (2) of which shall take place during the months of September and October.
History of Section.
P.L. 1986, ch. 366, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-21 - Health and Safety of Pupils › Section 16-21-18. - Students prohibited from bringing or possessing firearms on school premises.

§ 16-21-18. Students prohibited from bringing or possessing firearms on school premises.
The school penalty for bringing or possessing a weapon as defined in 18 U.S.C. § 921, a firearm or realistic replica of a firearm within school premises, premises being used for school purposes or activities, into a vehicle used for school transportation, or onto a roadway or path along which school children or teachers are walking to school shall be suspension from school for one year. This penalty will also be incurred when a student is not on school premises but when he or she aims a firearm or realistic replica of a firearm at school premises, school vehicles, or students, staff, or visitors attending school or in transit to or from school. This term of suspension may be shortened by the superintendent of schools on a case-by-case basis and under guidelines to be developed by the school committee with broad parent, teacher, and community involvement.
History of Section.
P.L. 1995, ch. 61, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-21 - Health and Safety of Pupils › Section 16-21-19. - Special rules for students with disabilities bringing firearms to school.

§ 16-21-19. Special rules for students with disabilities bringing firearms to school.
(a)
Students with disabilities as defined by the Individuals With Disabilities Education Act, 20 U.S.C. § 1415, shall be subject to the provisions of § 16-21-18 to the extent permitted by the Individuals With Disabilities Education Act, 20 U.S.C. § 1415.
(b)
Students with disabilities as defined by Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, 29 U.S.C. § 794, shall be subject to the provisions of § 16-21-18 to the extent permitted by Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, 29 U.S.C. § 794.
History of Section.
P.L. 1995, ch. 61, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-21 - Health and Safety of Pupils › Section 16-21-20. - Alternative placement and prevention activities.

§ 16-21-20. Alternative placement and prevention activities.
The department of elementary and secondary education in conjunction with the attorney general’s task force to prevent violence in schools shall develop requirements for the alternative placement of students suspended under the provision of § 16-21-18. The placements shall be cooperative efforts between the local school district, which shall be responsible for instruction of students, and other appropriate state and local agencies. Further, the department of elementary and secondary education in conjunction with the attorney general’s task force shall establish policies in support of locally developed prevention and education activities that include broad parent, teacher, and community involvement.
History of Section.
P.L. 1995, ch. 61, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-21 - Health and Safety of Pupils › Section 16-21-21. - Student discipline codes.

§ 16-21-21. Student discipline codes.
Each school committee shall make, maintain, and enforce a student discipline code. The purpose of the code is to foster a positive environment that promotes learning. The department of elementary and secondary education shall provide necessary technical assistance in the development of the student discipline code. The school committee shall cause the school discipline code to be distributed to each student enrolled in the district. Each student and his or her parent, guardian, or custodian shall sign a statement verifying that they have been given a copy of the student discipline code of their respective school district.
History of Section.
P.L. 1995, ch. 61, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-21 - Health and Safety of Pupils › Section 16-21-21.1. - Penalties for drug, alcohol or weapons offenses.

§ 16-21-21.1. Penalties for drug, alcohol or weapons offenses.
The discipline of any public school student for violating a school policy relating to the possession or use of alcohol, drugs or weapons not described in § 16-21-18 of this chapter, shall be imposed on a case-by-case basis pursuant to guidelines developed and promulgated by the school committee for that district. The guidelines and any discipline imposed shall take into account the nature and circumstances of the violation and the applicability of any federal laws governing students with disabilities.
History of Section.
P.L. 2007, ch. 339, § 1; P.L. 2007, ch. 407, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-21 - Health and Safety of Pupils › Section 16-21-23.1. - Model school safety plans and checklists — Development and dissemination.

§ 16-21-23.1. Model school safety plans and checklists — Development and dissemination.
(a)
It shall be the duty of the department of elementary and secondary education to collaborate with the Rhode Island emergency management agency, state police, state fire marshal, the department of behavioral health, developmental disabilities, and hospitals, and other safety officials to develop a model school safety plan to be consulted by school safety teams in accordance with § 16-21-23. This model plan shall be based on best practices in school safety planning and the department of elementary and secondary education shall communicate the plan electronically to all school committees and school safety teams in the state.
(b)
It shall be the duty of the department of elementary and secondary education to develop and disseminate school safety check lists that school districts can use on a regular basis and at least annually to assess the strengths and weaknesses of school safety in accordance with § 16-21-24. The check lists shall incorporate best practices in school safety planning and the department of elementary and secondary education shall communicate the plan electronically to all school committees and school safety teams in the state.
History of Section.
P.L. 2013, ch. 151, § 2; P.L. 2013, ch. 211, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-21 - Health and Safety of Pupils › Section 16-21-23.2. - Threat assessment teams and oversight committees.

§ 16-21-23.2. Threat assessment teams and oversight committees.
(a)
Each local school board or committee shall adopt written policies for the establishment of threat assessment teams, including the assessment of and intervention with individuals whose behavior may pose a threat to the safety of school staff or students consistent with the model policies developed by the school safety committee. The policies shall include procedures for referrals to community services or healthcare providers for evaluation or treatment when appropriate.
(b)
The superintendent of each school district shall establish a district committee charged with oversight of the threat assessment teams operating within the district, which may be an existing committee established by the district. The committee shall include individuals with expertise in guidance, counseling, school administration, mental health, and law enforcement.
(c)
Each district superintendent shall establish, for each school, a threat assessment team that shall include persons with expertise in guidance, counseling, school administration, mental health, and law enforcement. Threat assessment teams may be established to serve schools as determined by the district superintendent. Each team shall:
(1)
Provide guidance to students, faculty, and staff regarding recognition of threatening or aberrant behavior that may represent a threat to the community, school, or self;
(2)
Identify members of the school community to whom threatening behavior should be reported; and
(3)
Implement policies adopted by the local school board or committee pursuant to subsection (a).
(d)
Upon preliminary determination that a student poses a threat of violence or physical harm to self or others, a threat assessment team shall immediately report its determination to the district superintendent or designee. The building administrator or designee may, if appropriate, attempt to notify the student’s parent or legal guardian. Nothing in this subsection shall preclude school district personnel from acting immediately to address an imminent threat.
(e)
No member of a threat assessment team shall disclose any information obtained pursuant to this section or otherwise use any record of an individual beyond the purpose for which the disclosure was made to the threat assessment team.
History of Section.
P.L. 2019, ch. 195, § 1; P.L. 2019, ch. 260, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-21 - Health and Safety of Pupils › Section 16-21-25. - Review of school safety plans — Exemption from open meetings and public records requirements.

§ 16-21-25. Review of school safety plans — Exemption from open meetings and public records requirements.
(a)
Each city, town, or regional department school safety plan and school emergency response plans shall be reviewed on an annual basis by the school committee and updated annually. These reviews and updates shall be completed by November 1 of any given year, and by December 31 of that year, the commissioner of elementary and secondary education shall report to the speaker of the house, the president of the senate, and the governor that such reviews or updates have been completed.
(b)
All meetings of school safety teams shall not be subject to and be exempt from the open meetings law pursuant to chapter 46 of title 42, and documents produced by the school safety teams shall not be subject to the access to public records laws as set forth in chapter 2 of title 38.
History of Section.
P.L. 2001, ch. 151, § 1; P.L. 2013, ch. 151, § 1; P.L. 2013, ch. 152, § 1; P.L. 2013, ch. 211, § 1; P.L. 2013, ch. 212, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-21 - Health and Safety of Pupils › Section 16-21-26. - Repealed.

§ 16-21-26. Repealed.
History of Section.
P.L. 2003, ch. 204, § 2; P.L. 2003, ch. 213, § 2; P.L. 2008, ch. 102, § 1; P.L. 2008, ch. 150, § 1; P.L. 2008, ch. 220, § 1; Repealed by P.L. 2011, ch. 162, § 4, and by P.L. 2011, ch. 178, § 4, effective June 30, 2011.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-21 - Health and Safety of Pupils › Section 16-21-27. - Alternative education programs.

§ 16-21-27. Alternative education programs.
Each school district shall adopt a plan to ensure continued education of students who are removed from the classroom because of a suspension of more than ten (10) days or who are chronically truant. The plan shall be adopted by the school committee and shall be submitted to Rhode Island department of elementary and secondary education as part of its annual strategic plan submission.
History of Section.
P.L. 2004, ch. 555, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-21 - Health and Safety of Pupils › Section 16-21-28. - Health and wellness subcommittee.

§ 16-21-28. Health and wellness subcommittee.
(a)
The school committee of each school district shall establish a district-wide coordinated school health and wellness subcommittee chaired by a member of the full school committee. The subcommittee will make recommendations regarding the district’s health education curriculum and instruction, physical education curriculum and instruction, and nutrition and physical activity policies to decrease obesity and enhance the health and well being of students and employees.
(b)
The school health and wellness subcommittee shall consist of members of the general public, a majority of whom are not employed by the school district, including at least one parent, and are encouraged to include teachers; administrator; students; community and school-based health professionals; business community representatives; and representatives of local and statewide nonprofit health organizations. The subcommittee will be chaired by a member of the school committee.
(c)
Nothing in this section shall preclude the school committee from reconstituting any existing district-wide volunteer committees as the school health and wellness subcommittee so long as said committee membership meets the requirements of this section.
(d)
The school health and wellness subcommittee shall be responsible for, but not limited to, development of policies, strategies, and implementation plans that promote purchasing and serving locally grown fruits, vegetables and dairy products and that meet the requirements of the child nutrition and WIC Reauthorization Act of 2004. The school health and wellness subcommittee shall forward all recommendations regarding the district’s health education curriculum and instruction, physical education curriculum and instruction, nutrition policies, and physical activity policies to the full school committee.
(e)
Reporting shall be consistent with requirements of § 16-7.1-2(h).
(f)
The Rhode Island department of elementary and secondary education and the Rhode Island department of heath will provide technical assistance and support to the school health and wellness subcommittees on best practices, professional development on coordinated school health issues, suggested initiatives, and will support communication among the school health and wellness subcommittees by sharing information on the activities, efforts, and experiences of subcommittees across the state.
History of Section.
P.L. 2005, ch. 74, § 3; P.L. 2005, ch. 76, § 3; P.L. 2013, ch. 249, § 1; P.L. 2013, ch. 398, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-21 - Health and Safety of Pupils › Section 16-21-28.1. - Legislative findings.

§ 16-21-28.1. Legislative findings.
(a)
Approximately one in five hundred (500) school children have diabetes. Individuals with diabetes need to manage their diabetes carefully to keep their blood glucose levels within target range.
(b)
High blood glucose levels contribute to medical complications, such as blindness, kidney failure, amputations and cardiovascular disease, while severely low blood glucose levels can lead to unconsciousness or seizures with a potential for brain damage or death.
(c)
While episodes of unconsciousness or seizures are uncommon, schools should be prepared to promptly respond to such emergencies due to the urgency of the situation, and the inability of the student to drink or ingest food that might restore their blood sugar level.
(d)
Across the country, schools are increasingly more prepared and trained for medical emergencies using defibrillators and giving injections to counter allergic reactions.
(e)
The American academy of pediatrics September 2003 policy guidelines on administration of medication in school states: “Some medications, such as epinephrine injections for severe allergic reactions or glucagons for hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), have few significant adverse effects. Because these episodes, by nature, occur at unpredictable times when a school nurse may not be available, trained designated school staffs should be available.”
(f)
The Rhode Island chapter of the American academy of pediatrics states (November 20, 2005) that: “While quite rare, such episodes (of hypoglycemic unconsciousness or seizure) run the risk of serious long-term complications, and potentially death, if there is a delay in appropriate treatment.”
History of Section.
P.L. 2008, ch. 243, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-21 - Health and Safety of Pupils › Section 16-21-28.2. - Requirements for glucagon administration in a school setting.

§ 16-21-28.2. Requirements for glucagon administration in a school setting.
(a)
The department of elementary and secondary education and the department of health shall incorporate into their policies, rules and regulations for addressing incidents of hypoglycemia resulting in unconsciousness, seizure and/or the inability to swallow in order to provide for the health and safety of children who have been medically identified as having diabetes. The policies, rules and regulations shall include procedures whereby:
(1)
A parent or legal guardian of any child may expressly authorize school employees or those employed on behalf of the school, for when there is no school nurse immediately available, to administer glucagon on such child in case of an emergency, while at school or school-sponsored activities;
(2)
The glucagon shall be kept in a conspicuous place, readily available; and
(3)
Glucagon administration training may be provided by a licensed physician, physician assistant, advanced practiced registered nurse, or registered nurse, however in no case shall school nurse teachers be required to provide training; and the school administration shall allow staff to voluntarily assist with the emergency administration of glucagon when authorized by a parent or legal guardian.
(b)
A school employee, including administrative staff, shall not be subject to penalty or disciplinary action for refusing to be trained in glucagon administration.
(c)
A parent or legal guardian shall provide a diabetes management plan or physician’s order, signed by the student’s health care provider, that prescribes the care and assistance needed by the student including glucagon administration.
History of Section.
P.L. 2008, ch. 243, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-21 - Health and Safety of Pupils › Section 16-21-28.3. - Performance standards.

§ 16-21-28.3. Performance standards.
The department of health, in conjunction with the American diabetes association, and the Rhode Island chapter of American academy of pediatrics, shall develop performance standards and guidelines for the training and supervision of personnel, other than the school nurse, who provide emergency medical assistance to students under this section. Such personnel shall only be authorized to provide such assistance upon successful completion of glucagon administration training.
History of Section.
P.L. 2008, ch. 243, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-21 - Health and Safety of Pupils › Section 16-21-28.4. - Immunity for those using glucagon.

§ 16-21-28.4. Immunity for those using glucagon.
No school teacher, school administrator, school health care personnel, person employed on behalf of the school, any other school personnel, nor any local educational authority shall be liable for civil damages which may result from acts or omissions in use of glucagon which may constitute ordinary negligence. This immunity does nor apply to acts or omissions constituting gross negligence or willful or wanton conduct.
History of Section.
P.L. 2008, ch. 243, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-21 - Health and Safety of Pupils › Section 16-21-28.5. - Training of school personnel.

§ 16-21-28.5. Training of school personnel.
Training on the administration of epinephrine or glucagon for school personnel, or those employed on behalf of the school, shall not be considered the delegation of nursing practice.
History of Section.
P.L. 2008, ch. 243, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-21 - Health and Safety of Pupils › Section 16-21-28.6. - Administration.

§ 16-21-28.6. Administration.
The administration of epinephrine or glucagon by school personnel, or those employed on behalf of the school, shall not be considered the practice of nursing.
History of Section.
P.L. 2008, ch. 243, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-21 - Health and Safety of Pupils › Section 16-21-29. - Repealed.

§ 16-21-29. Repealed.
History of Section.
P.L. 2006, ch. 231, § 1; P.L. 2006, ch. 234, § 1; Repealed by P.L. 2016, ch. 529, § 2, effective August 11, 2016.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-21 - Health and Safety of Pupils › Section 16-21-31. - Notice of peanut/tree nut allergies — Posting.

§ 16-21-31. Notice of peanut/tree nut allergies — Posting.
(a)
In any school subject to the provisions of this chapter wherein a student with an allergy to peanuts/tree nuts and/or food derived from peanut/tree nuts products is in attendance, a notice shall be posted within that school building in a conspicuous place at every point of entry and within the cafeteria facility advising that there are students at said school with allergies to peanuts/tree nuts. The notice shall not identify the individual(s) with such allergy.
History of Section.
P.L. 2007, ch. 304, § 1; P.L. 2008, ch. 86, § 1; P.L. 2008, ch. 90, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-21 - Health and Safety of Pupils › Section 16-21-32. - Peanut/tree nut allergies.

§ 16-21-32. Peanut/tree nut allergies.
(a)
The governing body of each elementary, middle or junior high school approved for the purpose of §§ 16-19-1 and 16-19-2, shall develop a policy designed to provide a safe environment for students with peanut/tree nut allergies. When a school is aware that an enrolled student has a peanut/tree nut allergy with potentially serious health consequences, the school shall implement a protocol, consistent with the governing body’s policy, that provides the student with protections while he or she is attending school or participating in school-sponsored activities. The governing body’s policy shall include the development of an individual health care plan (IHCP) and an emergency health care plan (EHCP) for each student with such food allergy. The student’s IHCP and EHCP shall be developed collaboratively and be signed by the school nurse, the student’s health care provider, the parents/guardians of the student, and the student (if appropriate). Depending upon the nature and extent of the student’s peanut/tree nut allergy, the measures listed in the IHCP may include the posting of signs at school, the prohibition of the sale of particular food items in the school, the designation of special tables in the cafeteria, the prohibition of particular food items in certain classrooms, and the complete prohibition of particular food items from a school or school grounds.
(b)
The department of elementary and secondary education and the department of health shall amend their rules and regulations for school health programs to establish standards for the care of students with peanut/tree nut allergies.
History of Section.
P.L. 2008, ch. 86, § 2; P.L. 2008, ch. 90, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-21 - Health and Safety of Pupils › Section 16-21-33. - Safe schools act.

§ 16-21-33. Safe schools act.
(a) Definitions.
As used in this chapter:
(1)
“Bullying” means the use by one or more students of a written, verbal or electronic expression or a physical act or gesture or any combination thereof directed at a student that:
(i)
Causes physical or emotional harm to the student or damage to the student’s property;
(ii)
Places the student in reasonable fear of harm to himself/herself or of damage to his/her property;
(iii)
Creates an intimidating, threatening, hostile, or abusive educational environment for the student;
(iv)
Infringes on the rights of the student to participate in school activities; or
(v)
Materially and substantially disrupts the education process or the orderly operation of a school. The expression, physical act or gesture may include, but is not limited to, an incident or incidents that may be reasonably perceived as being motivated by characteristics such as race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression or mental, physical, or sensory disability, intellectual ability or by any other distinguishing characteristic.
(2)
“Cyber-bullying” means bullying through the use of technology or any electronic communication, which shall include, but shall not be limited to, any transfer of signs, signals, writing, images, sounds, data, texting or intelligence of any nature transmitted in whole or in part by a wire, radio, electromagnetic, photo electronic or photo optical system, including, but not limited to, electronic mail, Internet communications, instant messages or facsimile communications. For purposes of this section, cyber-bullying shall also include:
(i)
The creation of a web page or blog in which the creator assumes the identity of another person;
(ii)
The knowing impersonation of another person as the author of posted content or messages; or
(iii)
The distribution by electronic means of a communication to more than one person or the posting of materials on an electronic medium that may be accessed by one or more persons, if the creation, impersonation, or distribution results in any of the conditions enumerated in clauses (i) to (v) of the definition of bullying herein.
(3)
“At school” means on school premises, at any school-sponsored activity or event whether or not it is held on school premises, on a school-transportation vehicle, at an official school bus stop, using property or equipment provided by the school, or creates a material and substantial disruption of the education process or the orderly operation of the school.
History of Section.
P.L. 2011, ch. 162, § 3; P.L. 2011, ch. 178, § 3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-21 - Health and Safety of Pupils › Section 16-21-33.1. - Automatic external defibrillators.

§ 16-21-33.1. Automatic external defibrillators.
(a) Legislative findings:
(1)
Approximately three hundred twenty-five thousand (325,000) Americans suffer sudden cardiac arrest (“SCA”) each year and more than ninety-five percent (95%) of them die before reaching the hospital;
(2)
In the population of Rhode Island, an estimated one thousand (1,000) residents will die of cardiac arrest every year;
(3)
No official statistics have been gathered about SCA in children, however experts estimate about three hundred (300) deaths because of SCA every year for people under the age of twenty-one (21) or about one tenth of one percent (.001%);
(4)
This means that at least one person under the age of twenty-one (21) years, most likely a student, will die due to athletics related SCA every year in Rhode Island;
(5)
If defibrillation is performed within five (5) to seven (7) minutes, chances of survival are increased by forty-nine percent (49%). Every minute that goes by without defibrillation reduces the chance of survival by seven percent (7%) to ten percent (10%);
(6)
Automated external defibrillators (AEDs) are extremely accurate computerized devices that can be operated by the average person;
(7)
AEDs are inexpensive and grants for AEDs are mostly given to nonprofit organizations, such as schools; and
(8)
AEDs can be acquired through grants from various organizations or through government agencies.
(b)
All high schools and middle schools, whether they are public or privately run, shall provide and maintain on-site functional automated external defibrillators (AEDs) in quantities and types, deemed by the commissioner of education, in consultation with the director of health, to be adequate to ensure ready and appropriate access for use during emergencies. Whenever school facilities are used for school-sponsored or school-approved curricular or extracurricular activities, and whenever a school-sponsored athletic contest is held at any location, the school officials and administrators responsible for such school facility or athletic contest shall ensure the presence of at least one person who is properly trained in the operation and use of an AED. Such training may be conducted by qualified personnel, including, but not limited to, municipal fire and police department employees.
History of Section.
P.L. 2016, ch. 336, § 1; P.L. 2016, ch. 357, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-21 - Health and Safety of Pupils › Section 16-21-35. - Opioid-related drug overdose — Use of opioid antagonists — Immunity for those administering.

§ 16-21-35. Opioid-related drug overdose — Use of opioid antagonists — Immunity for those administering.
(a)
For the purposes of this section, the following terms shall have the following meanings:
(1)
“Opioid antagonist” means any drug that binds to opioid receptors and blocks or disinhibits the effects of opioids acting on those receptors, including naloxone hydrochloride, also known as Narcan or naloxone.
(2)
“Opioid-related drug overdose” means a condition including, but not limited to, extreme physical illness, decreased level of consciousness, respiratory depression, coma, or death resulting from the consumption or use of an opioid or another substance with which an opioid was combined, or that a layperson would reasonably believe to be an opioid-related drug overdose that requires medical assistance.
(3)
“School setting” means circumstances occurring while at school or at school-sponsored events or activities.
(b)
All public and private elementary, middle schools, junior high schools, and high schools, shall provide and maintain on-site in each school facility opioid antagonists, as defined herein.
(c)
To treat a case of suspected opioid overdose in a school setting, any trained nurse-teacher may administer an opioid antagonist, during an emergency, to any student or staff suspected of having an opioid-related drug overdose whether or not there is a previous history of opioid abuse. School physicians shall prepare standing orders for the procedures to be followed in dealing with a suspected opioid overdose in a school setting. The standing orders shall not require any school nurse-teacher to administer an opioid antagonist.
(d)
Opioid antagonists shall be maintained in quantities and types deemed adequate by the department of elementary and secondary education and the department of health, which shall incorporate into their policies, rules, and regulations a procedure for addressing incidents of opioid-related drug overdose in order to provide for the health and safety of children. Any policy, rule, or regulation shall ensure that the opioid antagonist is kept in a conspicuous place, readily available, but with provisions made for the safekeeping and security of the opioid antagonist so that the security of the medication will not be compromised.
(e)
Any school nurse-teacher or other school personnel using an opioid antagonist shall be protected from both civil and criminal liability pursuant to the provisions of chapter 28.9 of title 21 (the good samaritan overdose prevention act of 2016).
(f)
No school nurse-teacher shall be subject to penalty or disciplinary action for refusing to be trained in the administration of an opioid antagonist.
History of Section.
P.L. 2015, ch. 204, § 1; P.L. 2015, ch. 224, § 1; P.L. 2019, ch. 232, § 1; P.L. 2019, ch. 238, § 1.