reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-23.1 - Uniform Interstate Family Support Act › Article 6 - Registration, Enforcement and Modification of Support Order › Part 3 - Registration and Modification of Child-Support Order of Another State › Section 15-23.1-611. - Modification of child support order of another state.

§ 15-23.1-611. Modification of child support order of another state.
(a)
If § 15-23.1-613 does not apply, upon petition a tribunal of this state may modify a child support order issued in another state which is registered in this state if after notice and hearing the tribunal finds that:
(1)
The following requirements are met:
(i)
Neither child, nor the obligee who is an individual, nor the obligor resides in the issuing state;
(ii)
A petitioner who is a nonresident of this state seeks modification; and
(iii)
The respondent is subject to the personal jurisdiction of the tribunal of this state; or
(2)
This state is the residence of the child, or a party who is an individual, is subject to the personal jurisdiction of the tribunal of this state and all of the parties who are individuals have filed consent in a record in the issuing tribunal for a tribunal of this state to modify the support order and assume continuing, exclusive jurisdiction.
(b)
Modification of a registered child support order is subject to the same requirements, procedures, and defenses that apply to the modification of an order issued by a tribunal of this state and the order may be enforced and satisfied in the same manner.
(c)
A tribunal of this state may not modify any aspect of a child support order that may not be modified under the law of the issuing state, including the duration of the obligation of support. If two (2) or more tribunals have issued child support orders for the same obligor and child, the order that controls and must be so recognized under § 15-23.1-207 establishes the aspects of the support order which are non-modifiable.
(d)
In a proceeding to modify a child-support order, the law of the state that is determined to have issued the initial controlling order governs the duration of the obligation of support. The obligor’s fulfillment of the duty of support established by that order precludes imposition of a further obligation of support by a tribunal of this state.
(e)
On issuance of an order by a tribunal of this state modifying a child support order issued in another state, the tribunal of this state becomes the tribunal of continuing, exclusive jurisdiction.
(f)
Notwithstanding subsections (a) through (e) and subsection 15-23.1-201(b), a tribunal of this state retains jurisdiction to modify an order issued by a tribunal of this state if:
(1)
One party resides in another state; and
(2)
The other party resides outside the United States.
History of Section.
P.L. 1997, ch. 170, § 15; P.L. 2006, ch. 69, § 2; P.L. 2006, ch. 76, § 2; P.L. 2011, ch. 243, § 1; P.L. 2011, ch. 263, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-23.1 - Uniform Interstate Family Support Act › Article 6 - Registration, Enforcement and Modification of Support Order › Part 3 - Registration and Modification of Child-Support Order of Another State › Section 15-23.1-612. - Recognition of order modified in another state.

§ 15-23.1-612. Recognition of order modified in another state.
If a child support order issued by a tribunal of this state is modified by a tribunal of another state which assumed jurisdiction pursuant to the Uniform Interstate Family Support Act, a tribunal of this state:
(1)
May enforce its order that was modified only as to arrears and interest accruing before the modification;
(2)
May provide other appropriate relief for violations of its order which occurred before the effective date of the modification; and
(3)
Shall recognize the modifying order of the other state, upon registration, for the purpose of enforcement.
History of Section.
P.L. 1997, ch. 170, § 15; P.L. 2006, ch. 69, § 2; P.L. 2006, ch. 76, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-23.1 - Uniform Interstate Family Support Act › Article 6 - Registration, Enforcement and Modification of Support Order › Part 3 - Registration and Modification of Child-Support Order of Another State › Section 15-23.1-613. - Jurisdiction to modify support order of another state when individual parties reside in this state.

§ 15-23.1-613. Jurisdiction to modify support order of another state when individual parties reside in this state.
(a)
If all of the parties who are individuals reside in this state and the child does not reside in the issuing state, a tribunal of this state has jurisdiction to enforce and to modify the issuing state’s child support order in a proceeding to register that order.
(b)
A tribunal of this state exercising jurisdiction under this section shall apply the provisions of Articles 1 and 2, §§ 15-23.1-101 — 15-23.1-209, this Article, and the procedural and substantive law of this state to the enforcement or modification. Articles 3, 4, 5, §§ 15-23.1-301 — 15-23.1-507, 7 and 8, §§ 15-23.1-701 — 15-23.1-802, do not apply.
History of Section.
P.L. 1997, ch. 170, § 15.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-23.1 - Uniform Interstate Family Support Act › Article 6 - Registration, Enforcement and Modification of Support Order › Part 3 - Registration and Modification of Child-Support Order of Another State › Section 15-23.1-614. - Notice to issuing tribunal of modification.

§ 15-23.1-614. Notice to issuing tribunal of modification.
Within thirty (30) days after issuance of a modified child support order, the party obtaining the modification shall file a certified copy of the order with the issuing tribunal that had continuing, exclusive jurisdiction over the earlier order and in each tribunal in which the party knows the earlier order has been registered. A party who obtains the order and fails to file a certified copy is subject to appropriate sanctions by a tribunal in which the issue of failure to file arises. The failure to file does not affect the validity of enforceability of the modified order of the new tribunal having continuing, exclusive jurisdiction.
History of Section.
P.L. 1997, ch. 170, § 15.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-23.1 - Uniform Interstate Family Support Act › Article 6 - Registration, Enforcement and Modification of Support Order › Part 4 - Registration Enforcement and Modification of Foreign Child-Support Order › Section 15-23.1-615. - Jurisdiction to modify child-support order of foreign country.

§ 15-23.1-615. Jurisdiction to modify child-support order of foreign country.
(a)
Except as otherwise provided in § 15-23.1-711, if a foreign country lacks or refuses to exercise jurisdiction to modify its child-support order pursuant to its laws, a tribunal of this state may assume jurisdiction to modify the child-support order and bind all individuals subject to the personal jurisdiction of the tribunal whether the consent to modification of a child-support order otherwise required of the individual pursuant to § 15-23.1-611 has been given or whether the individual seeking modification is a resident of this state or of the foreign country.
(b)
An order issued by a tribunal of this state modifying a foreign child-support order pursuant to this section is the controlling order.
History of Section.
P.L. 2006, ch. 69, § 3; P.L. 2006, ch. 76, § 3; P.L. 2011, ch. 243, § 1; P.L. 2011, ch. 263, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-23.1 - Uniform Interstate Family Support Act › Article 6 - Registration, Enforcement and Modification of Support Order › Part 4 - Registration Enforcement and Modification of Foreign Child-Support Order › Section 15-23.1-616. - Procedure to register child-support order of foreign country for modification.

§ 15-23.1-616. Procedure to register child-support order of foreign country for modification.
A party or support enforcement agency seeking to modify, or to modify and enforce, a foreign child-support order not under the convention may register that order in this state under §§ 15-23.1-601 — 15-23.1-608 if the order has not been registered. A petition for modification may be filed at the same time as a request for registration, or at another time. The petition must specify the grounds for modification.
History of Section.
P.L. 2011, ch. 243, § 3; P.L. 2011, ch. 263, § 3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-23.1 - Uniform Interstate Family Support Act › Article 7 - Support Proceeding Under Convention › Section 15-23.1-701. - Definitions.

§ 15-23.1-701. Definitions.
In this chapter:
(1)
“Application” means a request under the convention by an obligee or obligor, or on behalf of a child, made through a central authority for assistance from another central authority.
(2)
“Central authority” means the entity designated by the United States or a foreign country described in subdivision 15-23.1-101(5)(iv) to perform the functions specified in the convention.
(3)
“Convention support order” means a support order of a tribunal of a foreign country described in subdivision 15-23.1-101(5)(iv).
(4)
“Direct request” means a petition filed by an individual in a tribunal of this state in a proceeding involving an obligee, obligor, or child residing outside the United States.
(5)
“Foreign central authority” means the entity designated by a foreign country described in subdivision 15-23.1-101(5)(iv) to perform the functions specified in the convention.
(6)
“Foreign support agreement”:
(i)
An agreement for support in a record that:
(A)
Is enforceable as a support order in the country of origin;
(B)
Has been:
(I)
Formally drawn up or registered as an authentic instrument by a foreign tribunal; or
(II)
Authenticated by, or concluded, registered, or filed with a foreign tribunal; and
(C)
May be reviewed and modified by a foreign tribunal; and
(ii)
Includes a maintenance arrangement or authentic instrument under the convention.
(7)
“United States central authority” means the secretary of the United States department of health and human services.
History of Section.
P.L. 1997, ch. 170, § 15; P.L. 2006, ch. 69, § 2; P.L. 2006, ch. 76, § 2; P.L. 2011, ch. 243, § 1; P.L. 2011, ch. 263, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-23.1 - Uniform Interstate Family Support Act › Article 7 - Support Proceeding Under Convention › Section 15-23.1-702. - Applicability.

§ 15-23.1-702. Applicability.
This chapter applies only to a support proceeding under the convention. In such a proceeding, if a provision of this article is inconsistent with articles 1 through 6, this article controls.
History of Section.
P.L. 2011, ch. 243, § 3; P.L. 2011, ch. 263, § 3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-23.1 - Uniform Interstate Family Support Act › Article 7 - Support Proceeding Under Convention › Section 15-23.1-703. - Relationship of the state of Rhode Island office of child support services.

§ 15-23.1-703. Relationship of the state of Rhode Island office of child support services.
The department of human services — office of child support services of this state is recognized as the agency designated by the United States central authority to perform specific functions under the convention.
History of Section.
P.L. 2011, ch. 243, § 3; P.L. 2011, ch. 263, § 3; P.L. 2017, ch. 64, § 1; P.L. 2017, ch. 74, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-23.1 - Uniform Interstate Family Support Act › Article 7 - Support Proceeding Under Convention › Section 15-23.1-704. - Initiation by the Rhode Island department of human services — Office of child support services.

§ 15-23.1-704. Initiation by the Rhode Island department of human services — Office of child support services.
(a)
In a support proceeding under this chapter, the department of human services — office of child support services of this state shall:
(1)
Transmit and receive applications; and
(2)
Initiate or facilitate the institution of a proceeding regarding an application in a tribunal of this state.
(b)
The following support proceedings are available to an obligee under the convention:
(1)
Recognition or recognition and enforcement of a foreign support order;
(2)
Enforcement of a support order issued or recognized in this state;
(3)
Establishment of support order if there is no existing order, including, if necessary, determination of parentage of a child;
(4)
Establishment of support order if recognition of a foreign support order is refused under § 15-23.1-708(b)(2), (b)(4), or (b)(9);
(5)
Modification of a support order of a tribunal of this state; and
(6)
Modification of a support order of a tribunal of another state or a foreign country.
(c)
The following support proceedings are available under the convention to an obligor against which there is an existing support order:
(1)
Recognition of an order suspending or limiting enforcement of an existing support order of a tribunal of this state;
(2)
Modification of a support order of a tribunal of this state; and
(3)
Modification of a support order of a tribunal of another state or a foreign country.
(d)
A tribunal of this state may not require security, bond, or deposit, however described, to guarantee the payment of costs and expenses in proceedings under the convention.
History of Section.
P.L. 2011, ch. 243, § 3; P.L. 2011, ch. 263, § 3; P.L. 2017, ch. 64, § 1; P.L. 2017, ch. 74, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-23.1 - Uniform Interstate Family Support Act › Article 7 - Support Proceeding Under Convention › Section 15-23.1-705. - Direct request.

§ 15-23.1-705. Direct request.
(a)
A petitioner may file a direct request seeking establishment or modification of a support order or determination of parentage of a child. In the proceeding, the law of this state applies.
(b)
A petitioner may file a direct request seeking recognition and enforcement of a support order or support agreement. In the proceeding, §§ 15-23.1-706 — 15-23.1-713 apply.
(c)
In a direct request for recognition and enforcement of a convention support order or foreign support agreement:
(1)
A security, bond, or deposit is not required to guarantee the payment of costs and expenses; and
(2)
An obligee or obligor that in the issuing country has benefited from free legal assistance is entitled to benefit, at least to the same extent, from any free legal assistance provided for by the law of this state under the same circumstances.
(d)
A petitioner filing a direct request is not entitled to assistance from the department of human services — office of child support services.
(e)
This chapter does not prevent the application of laws of this state that provide simplified, more expeditious rules regarding a direct request for recognition and enforcement of a foreign support order or foreign support agreement.
History of Section.
P.L. 2011, ch. 243, § 3; P.L. 2011, ch. 263, § 3; P.L. 2017, ch. 64, § 1; P.L. 2017, ch. 74, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-23.1 - Uniform Interstate Family Support Act › Article 7 - Support Proceeding Under Convention › Section 15-23.1-706. - Registration of convention support order.

§ 15-23.1-706. Registration of convention support order.
(a)
Except as otherwise provided in this article, a party who is an individual or a support enforcement agency seeking recognition of a convention support order shall register the order in this state as provided in article 6.
(b)
Notwithstanding § 15-23.1-311 and subsection 15-23.1-602(a), a request for registration of a convention support order must be accompanied by:
(1)
A complete text of the support order or an abstract or extract of the support order drawn up by the issuing foreign tribunal, which may be in the form recommended by the Hague conference on private international law.
(2)
A record stating that the support order is enforceable in the issuing country;
(3)
If the respondent did not appear and was not represented in the proceedings in the issuing country, a record attesting, as appropriate, either that the respondent had proper notice of the proceedings and an opportunity to be heard or that the respondent had proper notice of the support order and an opportunity to be heard in a challenge or appeal on fact or law before a tribunal;
(4)
A record showing the amount of arrears, if any, and the date the amount was calculated;
(5)
A record showing a requirement for automatic adjustment of the amount of support, if any, and the information necessary to make the appropriate calculations; and
(6)
If necessary, a record showing the extent to which the applicant received free legal assistance in the issuing country.
(c)
A request for registration of a convention support order may seek recognition and partial enforcement of the order.
(d)
A tribunal of this state may vacate the registration of a convention support order without the filing of a contest under § 15-23.1-707 only if, acting on its own motion, the tribunal finds that recognition and enforcement of the order would be manifestly incompatible with public policy.
(e)
The tribunal shall promptly notify the parties of the registration or the order vacating the registration of a convention support order.
History of Section.
P.L. 2011, ch. 243, § 3; P.L. 2011, ch. 263, § 3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-23.1 - Uniform Interstate Family Support Act › Article 7 - Support Proceeding Under Convention › Section 15-23.1-707. - Contest of registered convention support order.

§ 15-23.1-707. Contest of registered convention support order.
(a)
Except as otherwise provided in this chapter, sections 605 through 608 apply to a contest of a registered convention support order.
(b)
A party contesting a registered convention support order shall file a contest not later than thirty (30) days after notice of the registration, but if the contesting party does not reside in the United States, the contest must be filed not later than sixty (60) days after the notice of the registration.
(c)
If the nonregistering party fails to contest the registered convention support order by the time specified in subsection (b), the order is enforceable.
(d)
A contest of a registered convention support order may be based only on grounds set forth in § 15-23.1-708. The contesting party bears the burden of proof.
(e)
In a contest of a registered convention support order, a tribunal of this state:
(1)
Is bound by the findings of fact on which the foreign tribunal based its jurisdiction; and
(2)
May not review the merits of the order.
(f)
A tribunal of this state deciding a contest of a registered convention support order shall promptly notify the parties of its decision.
(g)
A challenge or appeal, if any, does not stay the enforcement of a convention support order unless there are exceptional circumstances.
History of Section.
P.L. 2011, ch. 243, § 3; P.L. 2011, ch. 263, § 3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-23.1 - Uniform Interstate Family Support Act › Article 7 - Support Proceeding Under Convention › Section 15-23.1-708. - Recognition and enforcement of registered convention support order.

§ 15-23.1-708. Recognition and enforcement of registered convention support order.
(a)
Except as otherwise provide in subsection (b), a tribunal of this state shall recognize and enforce a registered convention support order.
(b)
The following grounds are the only grounds on which a tribunal of this state may refuse recognition and enforcement of a registered convention support order;
(1)
Recognition and enforcement of the order is manifestly incompatible with public policy, including the failure of the issuing tribunal to observe minimum standards of due process, which include notice and an opportunity to be heard;
(2)
The issuing tribunal lacked personal jurisdiction consistent with § 15-23.1-201;
(3)
The order is not enforceable in the issuing country;
(4)
The order was obtained by fraud in connection with a matter or procedure;
(5)
A record transmitted in accordance with § 15-23.1-706 lacks authenticity;
(6)
A proceeding between the same parties and having the same purpose is pending before a tribunal of this state and that proceeding was the first to be filed;
(7)
The order is incompatible with a more recent support order involving the same parties and having the same purpose if the more recent support order is entitled to recognition and enforcement under this chapter in this state;
(8)
Payment, to the extent alleged arrears have been paid in whole or in part;
(9)
In a case in which the respondent neither appeared nor was represented in the proceeding in the issuing foreign country:
(i)
If the law or that a country provides for prior notice of proceedings, the respondent did not have proper notice of the proceedings and an opportunity to be heard; or
(ii)
If the law of that country does not provide for prior notice of the proceedings, the respondent did not have proper notice of the order and an opportunity to be heard in a challenge or appeal on fact or law before a tribunal; or
(10)
The order was made in violation of § 15-23.1-711.
(c)
If a tribunal of this state does not recognize a convention support order under subsection (b)(2), (b)(4), or (b)(9):
(1)
The tribunal may not dismiss the proceeding without allowing a reasonable time for party to request the establishment of a new convention support order; and
(2)
The court shall take all appropriate measures to request a child-support order for the obligee if the application for recognition and enforcement was received under § 15-23.1-704.
History of Section.
P.L. 2011, ch. 243, § 3; P.L. 2011, ch. 263, § 3; P.L. 2015, ch. 120, § 1; P.L. 2015, ch. 132, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-23.1 - Uniform Interstate Family Support Act › Article 7 - Support Proceeding Under Convention › Section 15-23.1-709. - Partial enforcement.

§ 15-23.1-709. Partial enforcement.
If a tribunal of this state does not recognize and enforce a convention support order in its entirety, it shall enforce any severable part of the order. An application or direct request may seek recognition and partial enforcement of a Convention support order.
History of Section.
P.L. 2011, ch. 243, § 3; P.L. 2011, ch. 263, § 3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-23.1 - Uniform Interstate Family Support Act › Article 7 - Support Proceeding Under Convention › Section 15-23.1-710. - Foreign support agreement.

§ 15-23.1-710. Foreign support agreement.
(a)
Except as otherwise provided in subsections (c) and (d), a tribunal of this state shall recognize and enforce a foreign support agreement registered in this state.
(b)
An application or direct request for recognition and enforcement of a foreign support agreement must be accompanied by:
(1)
A complete text of the foreign support agreement; and
(2)
A record stating that the foreign support agreement is enforceable as an order of support in the issuing country.
(c)
A tribunal of this state may vacate the registration of a foreign support agreement only if, acting on its own motion; the tribunal finds that recognition and enforcement would be manifestly incompatible with public policy.
(d)
In a contest of a foreign support agreement, a tribunal of this state may refuse recognition and enforcement of the agreement if it finds:
(1)
Recognition and enforcement of the agreement is manifestly incompatible with public policy;
(2)
The agreement was obtained by fraud or falsification;
(3)
The agreement is incompatible with a support order involving the same parties and having the same purpose in this state, another state, or a foreign country if the support order is entitled to recognition and enforcement under this chapter in this state; or
(4)
The record submitted under subsection (b) lacks authenticity or integrity.
(e)
A proceeding for recognition and enforcement of a foreign support agreement must be suspended during the pendency of a challenge to or appeal of the agreement before a tribunal of another state or a foreign country.
History of Section.
P.L. 2011, ch. 243, § 3; P.L. 2011, ch. 263, § 3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-23.1 - Uniform Interstate Family Support Act › Article 7 - Support Proceeding Under Convention › Section 15-23.1-711. - Modification of convention child-support order.

§ 15-23.1-711. Modification of convention child-support order.
(a)
A tribunal of this state may not modify a convention child-support order if the obligee remains a resident of the foreign country where the support order was issued unless:
(1)
The obligee submits to the jurisdiction of a tribunal of this state, either expressly or by defending on the merits of the case without objecting to the jurisdiction at the first available opportunity; or
(2)
The foreign tribunal lacks or refuses to exercise jurisdiction to modify its support order or issue a new support order.
(b)
If a tribunal of this state does not modify a convention child-support order because the order is not recognized in this state, subsection 15-23.1-708(c) applies.
History of Section.
P.L. 2011, ch. 243, § 3; P.L. 2011, ch. 263, § 3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-23.1 - Uniform Interstate Family Support Act › Article 7 - Support Proceeding Under Convention › Section 15-23.1-712. - Personal information; limit on use.

§ 15-23.1-712. Personal information; limit on use.
Personal information gathered or transmitted under this chapter may be used only for the purposes for which it was gathered or transmitted.
History of Section.
P.L. 2011, ch. 243, § 3; P.L. 2011, ch. 263, § 3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-23.1 - Uniform Interstate Family Support Act › Article 7 - Support Proceeding Under Convention › Section 15-23.1-713. - Record in original language; English translation.

§ 15-23.1-713. Record in original language; English translation.
A record filed with a tribunal of this state under this chapter must be in the original language and, if not in English, must be accompanied by an English translation.
History of Section.
P.L. 2011, ch. 243, § 3; P.L. 2011, ch. 263, § 3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-23.1 - Uniform Interstate Family Support Act › Article 8 - Interstate Rendition › Section 15-23.1-801. - Grounds for rendition.

§ 15-23.1-801. Grounds for rendition.
(a)
For purposes of this article “governor” includes an individual performing the functions of governor or the executive authority of a state covered by this chapter.
(b)
The governor of this state may:
(1)
Demand that the governor of another state surrender an individual found in the other state who is charged criminally in this state with having failed to provide for the support of an obligee; or
(2)
On the demand of the governor of another state, surrender an individual found in this state who is charged criminally in the other state with having failed to provide for the support of an obligee.
(c)
A provision for extradition of individuals not inconsistent with this chapter applies to the demand even if the individual whose surrender is demanded was not in the demanding state when the crime was allegedly committed and has not fled from the demanding state.
History of Section.
P.L. 1997, ch. 170, § 15; P.L. 2006, ch. 69, § 2; P.L. 2006, ch. 76, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-23.1 - Uniform Interstate Family Support Act › Article 8 - Interstate Rendition › Section 15-23.1-802. - Conditions of rendition.

§ 15-23.1-802. Conditions of rendition.
(a)
Before demanding that the governor of another state surrender an individual charged criminally in this state with having failed to provide for the support of an obligee, the governor of this state may require a prosecutor of this state to demonstrate that at least sixty (60) days previously the obligee had initiated proceedings for support pursuant to this chapter or that the proceeding would be of no avail.
(b)
If, under this chapter or a law substantially similar to this chapter, the governor of another state demands that the governor of this state surrender an individual charged criminally in that state with having failed to provide for the support of a child or other individual to whom a duty of support is owed, the governor may require a prosecutor to investigate the demand and report whether a proceeding for support has been initiated or would be effective. If it appears that a proceeding would be effective but has not been initiated, the governor may delay honoring the demand for a reasonable time to permit the initiation of a proceeding.
(c)
If a proceeding for support has been initiated and the individual whose rendition is demanded prevails, the governor may decline to honor the demand. If the petitioner prevails and the individual whose rendition is demanded is subject to a support order, the governor may decline to honor the demand if the individual is complying with the support order.
History of Section.
P.L. 1997, ch. 170, § 15; P.L. 2006, ch. 69, § 2; P.L. 2006, ch. 76, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-23.1 - Uniform Interstate Family Support Act › Article 9 - Miscellaneous Provisions › Section 15-23.1-901. - Uniformity of application and construction.

§ 15-23.1-901. Uniformity of application and construction.
In applying and construing this uniform act consideration must be given to the need to promote uniformity of the law with respect to its subject matter among states that enact it.
History of Section.
P.L. 1997, ch. 170, § 15; P.L. 2006, ch. 69, § 2; P.L. 2006, ch. 76, § 2; P.L. 2011, ch. 243, § 1; P.L. 2011, ch. 263, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-23.1 - Uniform Interstate Family Support Act › Article 9 - Miscellaneous Provisions › Section 15-23.1-902. - Transitional provision.

§ 15-23.1-902. Transitional provision.
This chapter applies to proceedings begun on or after the effective date of this act to establish a support order or determine parentage of a child or to register, recognize, enforce, or modify a prior support order, determination, or agreement, whenever issued or entered.
History of Section.
P.L. 2011, ch. 243, § 3; P.L. 2011, ch. 263, § 3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-23.1 - Uniform Interstate Family Support Act › Article 9 - Miscellaneous Provisions › Section 15-23.1-903. - Severability.

§ 15-23.1-903. Severability.
If any provision of this chapter or its application to any person or circumstance is held invalid, the invalidity does not affect other provisions or applications of this chapter which can be given effect without the invalid provision or application, and to this end the provisions of this chapter are severable.
History of Section.
P.L. 1997, ch. 170, § 15.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-23.1 - Uniform Interstate Family Support Act › Article 9 - Miscellaneous Provisions › Section 15-23.1-904. - Effective date.

§ 15-23.1-904. Effective date.
This chapter, as amended, takes effect July 1, 2015.
History of Section.
P.L. 1997, ch. 170, § 15; P.L. 2006, ch. 69, § 2; P.L. 2006, ch. 76, § 2; P.L. 2011, ch. 243, § 1; P.L. 2011, ch. 263, § 1; P.L. 2015, ch. 120, § 1; P.L. 2015, ch. 132, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-23.1 - Uniform Interstate Family Support Act › Article 9 - Miscellaneous Provisions › Section 15-23.1-905. - Repealed.

§ 15-23.1-905. Repealed.
History of Section.
P.L. 1997, ch. 170, § 15; Repealed by P.L. 2011, ch. 243, § 2; P.L. 2011, ch. 263, § 2, effective July 9, 2011.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-23.1 - Uniform Interstate Family Support Act › Article 9 - Miscellaneous Provisions › Section 15-23.1-906. - Repealed.

§ 15-23.1-906. Repealed.
History of Section.
P.L. 1997, ch. 170, § 15; P.L. 2000, ch. 266, § 1; Repealed by P.L. 2006, ch. 372, § 1; P.L. 2006, ch. 455, § 1, effective July 7, 2006. For present comparable provisions, see § 15-30-1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-23.1 - Uniform Interstate Family Support Act › Article 9 - Miscellaneous Provisions › Section 15-23.1-907. - Repealed.

§ 15-23.1-907. Repealed.
History of Section.
P.L. 1997, ch. 170, § 15; Repealed by P.L. 2011, ch. 243, § 2; P.L. 2011, ch. 263, § 2, effective July 9, 2011.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-23.1 - Uniform Interstate Family Support Act › Article 9 - Miscellaneous Provisions › Section 15-23.1-908. - Repealed.

§ 15-23.1-908. Repealed.
History of Section.
P.L. 2000, ch. 266, § 2; Repealed by P.L. 2006, ch. 372, § 1; P.L. 2006, ch. 455, § 1, effective July 7, 2006. For present comparable provisions, see § 15-30-2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-24 - Reporting of New Hires › Section 15-24-1. - Purpose.

§ 15-24-1. Purpose.
The purpose of this chapter is to enhance the enforcement of support obligations by requiring employers to report all new hires or rehires effective October 1, 1997, by establishing a state directory of new hires to be reported to a national directory of new hires, to establish procedures for reporting and penalties for failure to report, in accordance with title IV, part D, § 454 of the Federal Social Security Act, 42 USC § 654, and as defined in § 15-24-2 of this chapter. This chapter shall be construed liberally to effect this purpose.
History of Section.
P.L. 1997, ch. 170, § 16.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-24 - Reporting of New Hires › Section 15-24-2. - General rule on reporting.

§ 15-24-2. General rule on reporting.
(a)
On or before the effective date of employment, a new employee must complete a W-4 form as is required by both Rhode Island and federal law, § 3402(f)(2)(A) of the Internal Revenue Code, 26 U.S.C. § 3402(f)(2)(A).
(b)
Within fourteen (14) days of the employee’s effective date of employment or effective date of reinstatement, the employer must submit to the department of administration, division of taxation, or its designee, the information as provided in § 15-24-5.
History of Section.
P.L. 1997, ch. 170, § 16.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-24 - Reporting of New Hires › Section 15-24-3. - Definitions.

§ 15-24-3. Definitions.
As used in this chapter, unless the context otherwise requires:
(1)
“Compensation” means payment owed by the employer for:
(i)
Labor or services rendered by an employee; or
(ii)
Benefits including, but not limited to, vacation, holiday, and sick leave, and severance payments which are due an employee under an agreement with the employer or under a policy of the employer.
(2)
“Date of hire” means the date of commencement of employment, but no later than the first day for which the employee is eligible for compensation.
(3)
“Days” means calendar days.
(4)
“Department” means the department of administration, division of taxation, or its designee.
(5)
“Dependent” includes a spouse or child or any other person who is in need of or entitled to support from a person who is declared to be legally liable for the support of that dependent.
(6)
“Employee” means a natural person who performs labor in this state and is employed by an employer in this state for compensation and for whom the employer withholds federal or state income tax from the employee’s compensation.
(7)
“Employer” means a person or entity doing business in this state who engages an employee for compensation and for whom the employer withholds federal or state tax liabilities from the employee’s compensation.
(8)
“Natural person” means an individual and not a corporation, government, business trust, estate, partnership, or other legal entity, however organized.
(9)
“W-4 form,” also known as the Employers Withholding Allowance Certificate, the form issued by the Internal Revenue Service of the United States to record the federal income tax withholding allowance available to each employer.
(10)
“Rehire” means the first day for which an employee is owed compensation by the employer following a termination of employment lasting a minimum of sixty (60) days. Termination of employment does not include temporary separations from employment such as unpaid leave of absence, or a temporary layoff.
History of Section.
P.L. 1997, ch. 170, § 16; P.L. 2012, ch. 27, § 1; P.L. 2012, ch. 41, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-24 - Reporting of New Hires › Section 15-24-4. - Employees obligation.

§ 15-24-4. Employees obligation.
On or before the effective date of employment, an employee must complete the sections of the W-4 form pertaining to the employee’s name, address, date of birth, social security number, signature and date of signing, and submit the form to his or her employer. If an employee is being reinstated after a lapse in pay, the employee may, but is not required to, complete a new W-4 form.
History of Section.
P.L. 1997, ch. 170, § 16.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-24 - Reporting of New Hires › Section 15-24-5. - Employer’s reporting requirements.

§ 15-24-5. Employer’s reporting requirements.
(a)
Beginning October 1, 1997, an employer who hires or rehires an employee on or after October 1, 1997, must report the hiring or rehiring of the employee to the department or its designee not later than fourteen (14) days after hire or rehire if reporting on a W-4 or its equivalent, or twice a month if reporting electronically or magnetically.
(b)
The report submitted shall contain the following:
(1)
The employer’s name, address, and federal identification number;
(2)
The employee’s name, address, social security number;
(3)
Information regarding whether the employer has employee dependent health care coverage available and the appropriate date on which the employee may qualify for the coverage; and
(4)
The address to which income withholding orders and garnishments should be sent.
(c)
Employers must report the information required under subsection (b) of this section by any of the following means:
(1)
By mailing a copy of the W-4 form. If a copy of the W-4 form is delivered by the United States Postal Service to the department after its due date, the postmark date stamped on the envelope is deemed to be the date of submission, provided that the copy of the W-4 form was mailed in the United States, first class, postage prepaid, and properly addressed in accordance with instructions provided;
(2)
By submitting a fax transmission of the W-4;
(3)
By transmission by magnetic tape or electronically in the format and tape layout prescribed by the department, in the case of an employer transmitting reports magnetically or electronically, by two (2) monthly transmissions not less than twelve (12) days, nor more than fifteen (15) days apart; or
(4)
any other means authorized by the department if the means will result in timely reporting and provided the employer obtains prior written approval to use those means. Use of alternative means of reporting shall not affect the obligation of the employer to submit the report within the time prescribed in this section.
History of Section.
P.L. 1997, ch. 170, § 16.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-24 - Reporting of New Hires › Section 15-24-6. - Transmission of wage withholding notices to employers.

§ 15-24-6. Transmission of wage withholding notices to employers.
Within two (2) business days after the date information regarding a newly-hired employee is entered into the state directory of new hires, the department shall forward a wage withholding order to the employer unless the employee’s income is not subject to withholding pursuant to § 15-5-24.
History of Section.
P.L. 1997, ch. 170, § 16.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-24 - Reporting of New Hires › Section 15-24-7. - Failure to comply.

§ 15-24-7. Failure to comply.
Any employer who fails to report as required under this section may be liable for a civil penalty of twenty dollars ($20.00) for each violation, to be assessed by the department, and shall be required to provide the information. If it is demonstrated that the employer conspired with the employee to avoid reporting, a five hundred dollar ($500) a civil penalty may be assessed by the department. Liability shall be joint and several.
History of Section.
P.L. 1997, ch. 170, § 16; P.L. 1998, ch. 370, § 3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-24 - Reporting of New Hires › Section 15-24-8. - Unauthorized disclosure of information.

§ 15-24-8. Unauthorized disclosure of information.
Unauthorized disclosure of information caused by the department under these provisions, by any employee or agent of the state, is punishable by a fine of one hundred dollars ($100) per offense and is subject to administrative discipline of the employee.
History of Section.
P.L. 1997, ch. 170, § 16.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-24 - Reporting of New Hires › Section 15-24-9. - Department’s obligation.

§ 15-24-9. Department’s obligation.
The department must use information collected pursuant to this chapter to prevent tax evasion, fraud in financial assistance, benefits, or loan programs administrated by agencies including, but not limited to, the department of labor and training and the department of human services, and to assist the IV-D agency in locating absent parents and establishing, enforcing, and modifying child support orders.
History of Section.
P.L. 1997, ch. 170, § 16.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-25 - Credit Reporting › Section 15-25-1. - State information agency — Reports to consumer reporting agency.

§ 15-25-1. State information agency — Reports to consumer reporting agency.
(a)
The department of administration, division of taxation, child support enforcement agency, designated as the state agency for purposes of providing consumer reporting agencies with information regarding the amount of overdue support owed by an obligor, is authorized to promulgate rules, regulations, and guidelines for the release of that information in accordance with this section. For purposes of this section, “overdue support” means a delinquency pursuant to an obligation determined under a court order, or an order of an administrative process established under the law of any state, for:
(1)
support and maintenance of a minor child, which is owed to or on behalf of the child; or
(2)
support and maintenance of the obligor’s spouse or former spouse with whom the child is living.
(b)
For purposes of this section, “consumer reporting agency” means any person which, for monetary fees, dues, or on a cooperative nonprofit basis, regularly engages in whole or in part in the practice of assembling or evaluating consumer credit information or other information on consumers for the purpose of furnishing consumer reports to third parties, and which uses any means or facility of interstate commerce for the purpose of preparing or furnishing consumer reports.
(c)
The department of administration shall provide to consumer reporting agencies information regarding the amount, if any, of overdue support owed by an obligor. The department shall not be required to provide information regarding overdue support in an individual case if the department determines that release of information is inappropriate.
(d)
The department may charge consumer reporting agencies and credit bureaus a fee not to exceed the actual cost of providing the information.
(e)
The department shall provide written notice to the absent parent ten (10) days prior to the proposed release of information to consumer reporting agencies. The notice shall state that the absent parent may contest the accuracy of information prior to release and shall state the procedures to contest the accuracy of the information.
(f)
The department shall periodically inform the consumer reporting agencies if the overdue support has been paid in full or of the amended amount of overdue support.
History of Section.
P.L. 1997, ch. 170, § 17.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-25 - Credit Reporting › Section 15-25-2. - Furnishing consumer reports to child support agency.

§ 15-25-2. Furnishing consumer reports to child support agency.
The department of administration, division of taxation, child support enforcement agency, is authorized to request consumer reports provided the agency certifies to the credit reporting agency in writing the following:
(1)
The consumer credit report is needed for the purpose of establishing an individual’s capacity to pay child support or determining the appropriate level of such payments;
(2)
The paternity of the consumer for the child to which the obligation relates has been established or acknowledged by the consumer in accordance with state laws which the obligation arises;
(3)
The consumer has been given at least ten (10) days prior notice, by certified mail, to the last known address, that the report will be requested and be made available to the consumer; and
(4)
The consumer credit report will be kept confidential, will be used solely for the purpose described in subdivision (1) of this section and will not be used in connection with any other civil, administrative or criminal proceeding.
History of Section.
P.L. 1998, ch. 370, § 4.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-26 - State Disbursement Unit for the Collection and Distribution of Child Support › Section 15-26-1. - Purpose.

§ 15-26-1. Purpose.
The purpose of this chapter is to establish and operate a centralized state collection and disbursement unit within the department of administration, division of taxation, child support enforcement for the timely, automated collection and disbursement of support orders being enforced under § 454(4) of title IV-D of the Social Security Act, 42 U.S.C. § 654(4), and in all cases not being enforced by the state in which the support order is initially issued in the state on or after October 1, 1998, and in which the income of the non-custodial parent is subject to income withholding.
History of Section.
P.L. 1997, ch. 170, § 18; P.L. 2001, ch. 155, § 6.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-26 - State Disbursement Unit for the Collection and Distribution of Child Support › Section 15-26-2. - Operation.

§ 15-26-2. Operation.
(a)
The centralized state collection and disbursement unit shall be operated directly by the department of administration, division of taxation or its designee and in coordination with the automated system.
(b)
The centralized state collection and disbursement unit shall use the automated procedures, electronic processes, including the electronic funds transfer (EFT) provisions as authorized by the tax administrator under § 44-1-31, and computer driven technology to the maximum extent feasible, efficient and economical for the collection and disbursement of support payments, including procedures for receipt from parents, employers, and other states, and for disbursement to custodial parents and other obligees, the state agency, and the agencies of other states:
(1)
For accurate identification of payments;
(2)
To ensure prompt disbursement of the custodial parent’s share of any payment; and
(3)
To furnish to any parent, upon request, timely information on the current status of support payments.
History of Section.
P.L. 1997, ch. 170, § 18; P.L. 2002, ch. 225, § 1; P.L. 2013, ch. 501, § 11.