reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-157.1 - Rhode Island Market Stability and Reinsurance Act › Section 42-157.1-4. - Powers of the director.

§ 42-157.1-4. Powers of the director.
The director may:
(1)
Contract with the federal government or another unit of government to ensure coordination of the program;
(2)
Apply for any available federal funding for the program;
(3)
Undertake, directly or through contracts with other persons or entities, studies or demonstration programs to develop awareness of the benefits of this chapter; and
(4)
Formulate general policy and adopt rules and regulations that are reasonably necessary to administer this chapter, including regulations establishing a reinsurance program to mitigate the impact of high-risk individuals on health insurance rates.
History of Section.
P.L. 2018, ch. 220, § 1; P.L. 2018, ch. 278, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-157.1 - Rhode Island Market Stability and Reinsurance Act › Section 42-157.1-5. - Establishment of program fund.

§ 42-157.1-5. Establishment of program fund.
(a)
The health insurance market integrity fund is hereby established to provide funding for the operation and administration of the program in carrying out the purposes of the program under this chapter.
(b)
The director is authorized to administer the fund.
(c)
The fund shall consist of:
(1)
Any pass-through funds received from the federal government under a waiver approved under 42 U.S.C. § 18052;
(2)
Any funds designated by the federal government to provide reinsurance to carriers that offer individual health benefit plans in the state;
(3)
Any funds designated by the state to provide reinsurance to carriers that offer individual health benefit plans in the state; and
(4)
Any other money from any other source accepted for the benefit of the fund.
(d)
[Deleted by P.L. 2019, ch. 88, art. 11, § 4].
(e)
No general revenue funding shall be used for reinsurance payments.
(f)
A restricted-receipt account shall be established for the fund which may be used for the purposes set forth in this section and shall be exempt from the indirect cost recovery provisions of § 35-4-27.
(g)
Monies in the fund shall be used to provide reinsurance to health insurance carriers as set forth in this chapter and its implementing regulations, and to support the personnel costs, operating costs, and capital expenditures of the exchange and the division of taxation that are necessary to carry out the provisions of this chapter, §§ 44-30-101 through 44-30-102, and §§ 42-157-11 through 42-157-14.
(h)
Any excess monies remaining in the fund, not including any monies received from the federal government pursuant to subsection (c)(1) or (c)(2) of this section and after making the payments required by subsection (g) of this section, may be used for preventative healthcare programs for vulnerable populations in consultation with the executive office of health and human services.
History of Section.
P.L. 2018, ch. 220, § 1; P.L. 2018, ch. 278, § 1; P.L. 2019, ch. 88, art. 11, § 4.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-157.1 - Rhode Island Market Stability and Reinsurance Act › Section 42-157.1-6. - State innovation waiver.

§ 42-157.1-6. State innovation waiver.
In accordance with § 42-157-5, the director may apply to the United States Secretary of Health and Human Services under 42 U.S.C. § 18052 for a state innovation waiver to implement the program and seek federal pass-through funding for calendar years beginning January 1, 2020, and future years, to maximize federal funding.
History of Section.
P.L. 2018, ch. 220, § 1; P.L. 2018, ch. 278, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-157.1 - Rhode Island Market Stability and Reinsurance Act › Section 42-157.1-7. - Program contingent on federal waiver.

§ 42-157.1-7. Program contingent on federal waiver.
If the state innovation waiver request in § 42-157.1-6 is not approved, the director shall not implement the program or provide reinsurance payments to eligible carriers.
History of Section.
P.L. 2018, ch. 220, § 1; P.L. 2018, ch. 278, § 1; P.L. 2019, ch. 88, art. 11, § 4.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-158 - Freedom from Prone Restraint Act › Section 42-158-1. - Short title.

§ 42-158-1. Short title.
This chapter shall be known and may be cited as the “Freedom from Prone Restraint Act.”
History of Section.
P.L. 2016, ch. 94, § 1; P.L. 2016, ch. 102, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-158 - Freedom from Prone Restraint Act › Section 42-158-2. - Fundamental purpose.

§ 42-158-2. Fundamental purpose.
This chapter is enacted to protect and promote the right of each person who is served by a covered facility to be free from the use of prone restraint. Research has shown that prone restraint is a hazardous and potentially lethal position.
History of Section.
P.L. 2016, ch. 94, § 1; P.L. 2016, ch. 102, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-158 - Freedom from Prone Restraint Act › Section 42-158-3. - Definitions.

§ 42-158-3. Definitions.
For the purpose of this chapter:
(1)
“Service provider” means any person employed or contracted by a covered facility to provide support or care, residential support, education, health care, treatment, or direct supervision.
(2)
“Covered facility” means any agency, organization, or public or private entity, regardless of the state agency under whose authority its license or certification is established, that provides support or care, residential support, education, health care, treatment, or direct supervision to any person. “Covered facility” does not include any law enforcement department, the department of corrections, the training school for youth, or the forensic unit at the Eleanor Slater hospital.
(3)
“Prone restraint” means a restraint or hold that limits or controls the movement or normal functioning of any portion, or all, of an individual’s body while the individual is in a face-down position. Prone restraint does not include the temporary controlling of an individual in a prone position while transitioning to an alternative, safer form of restraint.
History of Section.
P.L. 2016, ch. 94, § 1; P.L. 2016, ch. 102, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-158 - Freedom from Prone Restraint Act › Section 42-158-4. - Use of restraints.

§ 42-158-4. Use of restraints.
No service provider of any covered facility may use a prone restraint at any time.
History of Section.
P.L. 2016, ch. 94, § 1; P.L. 2016, ch. 102, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-158 - Freedom from Prone Restraint Act › Section 42-158-5. - Training and policies.

§ 42-158-5. Training and policies.
Each covered facility shall:
(1)
Develop policies and procedures that establish monitoring, documentation, reporting, and internal review of the use of restraint in accordance with this chapter.
(2)
Require training of all service providers in the reduction/elimination of restraint and seclusion. The training shall be approved by the director of the state agency that has supervisory control over the covered facility. The training shall include, but not be limited to:
(i)
Leadership towards organization change;
(ii)
Use of data to inform practice;
(iii)
Workforce development;
(iv)
Use of prevention tools, including positive behavior interventions and de-escalation;
(v)
Inclusion of individuals, families, and advocates; and
(vi)
Debriefing techniques and outcomes.
(3)
Make the policies and procedures required under subsection (1) available to the director of the state agency that has jurisdiction or supervisory control over the covered facility.
History of Section.
P.L. 2016, ch. 94, § 1; P.L. 2016, ch. 102, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-159 - Rhode Island Sailing Events Commission › Section 42-159-1. - Short title.

§ 42-159-1. Short title.
This chapter shall be known and may be cited as the “Rhode Island Sailing Events Commission.”
History of Section.
P.L. 2017, ch. 397, § 2; P.L. 2017, ch. 420, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-159 - Rhode Island Sailing Events Commission › Section 42-159-2. - Creation of the commission.

§ 42-159-2. Creation of the commission.
There is hereby created and established a permanent commission to be known as the Rhode Island Sailing Events Commission hereinafter referred to as the “commission.”
History of Section.
P.L. 2017, ch. 397, § 2; P.L. 2017, ch. 420, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-159 - Rhode Island Sailing Events Commission › Section 42-159-3. - Membership of the commission.

§ 42-159-3. Membership of the commission.
(a)
The commission shall consist of nineteen (19) members as follows:
(1)
The director of the department of environmental management, or designee;
(2)
The president of the Narragansett Bay Yacht Association, or designee;
(3)
The chief executive officer of US Sailing, or designee;
(4)
The chief executive officer of SAIL TO PREVAIL, or designee;
(5)
The Southern Regional Director of the New England Inter-Collegiate Sailing Association, or designee;
(6)
The executive director of Sail Newport, or designee;
(7)
The president/chief executive officer of Discover Newport, or designee;
(8)
The chairperson of the board of directors of the Rhode Island Marine Trades Association (RIMTA), or designee;
(9)
A representative of the city of Newport, to be appointed by the mayor of the city of Newport;
(10)
One representative each from four (4) Rhode Island yacht clubs, to be appointed by the president of the Narragansett Bay Yachting Association; and
(11)
Six (6) representatives from the general public, three (3) of whom shall be appointed by the speaker of the house of representatives, one of whom shall be appointed for a term of one year, one of whom shall be appointed for a term of two (2) years and one of whom shall be appointed for a term of three (3) years; and three (3) of whom shall be appointed by the president of the senate, one of whom shall be appointed for a term of one year, one of whom shall be appointed for a term of two (2) years and one of whom shall be appointed for a term of three (3) years.
(b)
The chair of the commission shall be elected from among the membership by the commission members. In the event of the absence or disability of the chairperson, the members of the commission shall elect a temporary chairperson by a majority vote of those present and voting.
(c)
Should any member cease to be an officer or employee of the unit or agency the member is appointed to represent, his or her membership on the commission shall terminate immediately. Any vacancy on the commission shall be filled in the same manner as the original appointment.
(d)
Ten (10) members of the commission shall constitute a quorum.
History of Section.
P.L. 2017, ch. 397, § 2; P.L. 2017, ch. 420, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-159 - Rhode Island Sailing Events Commission › Section 42-159-4. - Terms of office.

§ 42-159-4. Terms of office.
The members shall serve until their successors are appointed and qualified.
History of Section.
P.L. 2017, ch. 397, § 2; P.L. 2017, ch. 420, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-159 - Rhode Island Sailing Events Commission › Section 42-159-5. - Purpose.

§ 42-159-5. Purpose.
The commission is created and established to identify, evaluate, and provide recommendations to assist nationally and internationally recognized sailing and marine events, both amateur and professional, and to attract and encourage activity in Rhode Island. In addition, the commission shall advise state and local leaders on the suitability and practicality of hosting qualified marine events in the state.
History of Section.
P.L. 2017, ch. 397, § 2; P.L. 2017, ch. 420, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-159 - Rhode Island Sailing Events Commission › Section 42-159-6. - Authority.

§ 42-159-6. Authority.
(a)
The commission is authorized to accept and empowered to accept and expend funds made available by the United States government or any agency thereof, in order to carry out the commission’s efforts to manage financial support for sailing events. In coordination with the Rhode Island Sailing Foundation, the commission is authorized to solicit grants and charitable funds or in-kind contributions from public and private individuals and organizations to fund projects and programs. The proceeds of grants received shall be paid to the general treasurer of the state and be deposited by them in a separate fund to be utilized for the purposes of those grants, and in the manner and degree as shall be deemed to be in the best interest of the state.
(b)
The allocation of any funds received shall be decided by a majority vote of voting members in attendance at a meeting duly convened for the conduct of business by the commission.
History of Section.
P.L. 2017, ch. 397, § 2; P.L. 2017, ch. 420, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-160 - Rhode Island Pay for Success Act › Section 42-160-1. - Short title.

§ 42-160-1. Short title.
This act shall be known and may be cited as the “Rhode Island Pay for Success Act.”
History of Section.
P.L. 2021, ch. 162, art. 14, § 8, effective July 6, 2021.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-160 - Rhode Island Pay for Success Act › Section 42-160-2. - Legislative findings.

§ 42-160-2. Legislative findings.
The general assembly hereby finds and declares as follows:
(1)
Pay-for-success contracts are executed detailing the outcomes, associated repayment, and evaluation process to be conducted by a third party. The proceeds are disbursed to a nonprofit organization(s) that will execute the intervention delivering services and other resources, such as housing, to the target population. An independent evaluator monitors the outcomes of the intervention to determine if success was met. If the intervention improves financial and social outcomes in accordance with established metrics, the government, as outcome payor, pays back the investors with interest using a portion of the savings accrued from the successful outcomes. If the evaluator determines that success was not met, meaning there is no improvement in financial or social outcomes, the investors lose money.
(2)
In 2016 the United States Department of Justice (DOJ) and the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) awarded funding to the Rhode Island Coalition to End Homelessness to pursue a pay for success social impact bond in Rhode Island focusing on housing and supportive services for persons experiencing homelessness who are high utilizers of the healthcare and justice systems. The pilot program will leverage eight hundred seventy-five thousand dollars ($875,000) in outcome payment funding from the HUD/DOJ grant as well as the intervention and independent evaluation process described in the grant agreement.
History of Section.
P.L. 2021, ch. 162, art. 14, § 8, effective July 6, 2021.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-160 - Rhode Island Pay for Success Act › Section 42-160-3. - Annual reporting.

§ 42-160-3. Annual reporting.
The executive office, in collaboration with the Rhode Island Coalition to End Homelessness, shall provide yearly progress reports to the general assembly beginning no later than January 30, 2022, and annually thereafter until January 30, 2027. These reports will include recommendations on a proposed structure for entering into pay for success contracts, for administering the program, and for any and all matters related thereto that the executive office deems necessary to administer future pay for success projects at the conclusion of the pilot program in 2026. As a condition of this project, HUD requires that a third party conduct a transparent and rigorous evaluation of the intervention to determine whether the outcomes have indeed achieved success. The evaluation results will be reported yearly to the governor and general assembly.
History of Section.
P.L. 2021, ch. 162, art. 14, § 8, effective July 6, 2021.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-160 - Rhode Island Pay for Success Act › Section 42-160-5. - Pilot program established.

§ 42-160-5. Pilot program established.
There is established a five-year (5) pay-for-success pilot program to be administered by the Rhode Island executive office of health and human services. The pilot will follow the proposal outlined in the 2016 pay-for-success grant proposal to HUD and 2017 feasibility study. The pay-for-success project will provide a housing and supportive services intervention (PSH) for one hundred twenty-five (125) persons in Rhode Island experiencing homelessness who are high utilizers of the healthcare and justice systems. The pilot program will leverage eight hundred seventy-five thousand dollars ($875,000) of HUD/DOJ grant funds. Contract agreements with the executive office of health and human services pursuant to this chapter shall not exceed one million five hundred thousand dollars ($1,500,000) per fiscal year or six million dollars ($6,000,000) in the aggregate over the five (5) years of the pilot program, as determined by the department; provided, no agreements shall be entered by the department after July 1, 2026, without further authorization by the general assembly.
History of Section.
P.L. 2021, ch. 162, art. 14, § 8, effective July 6, 2021.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-160 - Rhode Island Pay for Success Act › Section 42-160-6. - Establishment of restricted receipt account.

§ 42-160-6. Establishment of restricted receipt account.
There is hereby created within the general fund of the state a restricted receipt account entitled or to be known as “Pay for Success.” The account shall be housed within the budget of the executive office of health and human services and shall be utilized to record all receipts and program expenditures associated with this chapter. All such monies deposited shall be exempt from the indirect cost recovery provisions of § 35-4-27.
History of Section.
P.L. 2021, ch. 162, art. 14, § 8, effective July 6, 2021.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-161 - Statewide Body-Worn Camera Program › Section 42-161-1. - Short title.

§ 42-161-1. Short title.
This chapter shall be known and may be cited as the “Statewide Body-Worn Camera Program.”
History of Section.
P.L. 2021, ch. 228, § 1, effective July 8, 2021; P.L. 2021, ch. 229, § 1, effective July 8, 2021.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-161 - Statewide Body-Worn Camera Program › Section 42-161-2. - Definitions.

§ 42-161-2. Definitions.
As used in this chapter:
(1)
“Attorney general” means the attorney general of the state of Rhode Island, or designee;
(2)
“Body-worn camera” means a video and audio recording device that is carried by, or worn on the body of, a law enforcement officer and that is capable of recording the actions and interactions of the officer and the public;
(3)
“Director of the department of public safety” means the director of public safety appointed by the governor pursuant to § 42-7.3-5, or designee.
(4)
“Public safety grant administration office” means the public safety grant administration office as defined in chapter 26 of this title.
(5)
“State-supported implementation period” means a period of five (5) years beginning on July 1, 2021, and ending on June 30, 2026.
History of Section.
P.L. 2021, ch. 228, § 1, effective July 8, 2021; P.L. 2021, ch. 229, § 1, effective July 8, 2021.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-161 - Statewide Body-Worn Camera Program › Section 42-161-3. - Powers of attorney general and department of public safety — Establishment of grant program.

§ 42-161-3. Powers of attorney general and department of public safety — Establishment of grant program.
(a)
The director of the department of public safety is hereby authorized, within available funds, to award grants and other forms of funding to facilitate the adoption of body-worn cameras by Rhode Island police departments. The director of the department of public safety may also coordinate state applications for federal funds available for body-worn camera adoption.
(b)
The director of the department of public safety may, in coordination with the department of administration, facilitate body-worn camera procurement by Rhode Island police departments through state master price agreement contracts in accordance with § 37-2-56.
(c)
The attorney general and the director of the department of public safety, in consultation with the Rhode Island police chiefs’ association, are responsible for developing statewide policies, procedures, and guidelines for the use and operation of body-worn cameras.
(d)
The attorney general and the director of the department of public safety, in consultation with the Rhode Island police chiefs’ association, may survey and assess police department body-worn camera needs, evaluate body-worn camera solutions and budgetary costs, and facilitate the provision of technical assistance for Rhode Island police departments adopting body-worn cameras.
(e)
All appropriations in support of provisions of this chapter shall be housed within the department of public safety.
(f)
No money appropriated in the state budget shall be awarded for Rhode Island police department body-worn camera expenses incurred before or after the state-supported implementation period.
(g)
No money appropriated in the state budget shall be distributed for Rhode Island police department body-worn camera expenses before rules and regulations are promulgated pursuant to § 42-161-4.
History of Section.
P.L. 2021, ch. 228, § 1, effective July 8, 2021; P.L. 2021, ch. 229, § 1, effective July 8, 2021.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-161 - Statewide Body-Worn Camera Program › Section 42-161-4. - Rules and regulations — Statewide policies, procedures, and guidelines for the use and operation of body-worn cameras.

§ 42-161-4. Rules and regulations — Statewide policies, procedures, and guidelines for the use and operation of body-worn cameras.
(a)
The director of the department of public safety in consultation with the attorney general shall promulgate rules and regulations, pursuant to chapter 35 of this title, to develop the criteria and manner in which funds are awarded to Rhode Island police departments under this chapter.
(b)
The attorney general and the director of the department of public safety, in consultation with the Rhode Island police chiefs’ association, shall promulgate rules and regulations, pursuant to chapter 35 of this title, after holding a public hearing, to create a policy for the use and operation of body-worn cameras. This policy shall address at a minimum, but not be limited to:
(1)
Proper use of equipment;
(2)
Data and equipment security;
(3)
Activation and deactivation of cameras;
(4)
Notification to the public of recording;
(5)
Records retention procedures and timelines;
(6)
Access to data by law enforcement and the public;
(7)
Privacy protections, including redaction procedures; and
(8)
Compliance monitoring.
(c)
The public safety grant administration office shall condition the award of money under this chapter on the certification of a police chief, or highest ranking sworn member of a law enforcement agency, that the certifying chief’s department has adopted the policy referenced in subsection (b) of this section.
History of Section.
P.L. 2021, ch. 228, § 1, effective July 8, 2021; P.L. 2021, ch. 229, § 1, effective July 8, 2021.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-161 - Statewide Body-Worn Camera Program › Section 42-161-5. - Reporting requirements.

§ 42-161-5. Reporting requirements.
The director of the department of public safety shall publish a report on the funding of the statewide body-worn camera program within sixty (60) days following the end of each fiscal year. The report shall contain information on the commitment, disbursement, and use of funds pursuant to this chapter. The director of the department of public safety shall provide a copy of the report to the governor, attorney general, speaker of the house, and senate president.
History of Section.
P.L. 2021, ch. 228, § 1, effective July 8, 2021; P.L. 2021, ch. 229, § 1, effective July 8, 2021.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-162 - Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure Program › Section 42-162-1. - Legislative findings.

§ 42-162-1. Legislative findings.
The general assembly finds and declares that:
(1)
The 2021 act on climate establishes mandatory, economy-wide greenhouse gas emissions reduction targets; and
(2)
To meet these goals, Rhode Island must accelerate its adoption of more sustainable transportation solutions, including electric vehicles; and
(3)
The widespread adoption of electric vehicles will necessitate investment in and deployment of electric vehicle charging infrastructure; and
(4)
Electric vehicle charging infrastructure must be made accessible to all Rhode Island citizens and businesses, and deployed in an equitable manner; and
(5)
The installation of electric vehicle charging infrastructure and other clean energy investments will support statewide economic development and job growth in the clean energy sector.
History of Section.
P.L. 2022, ch. 231, art. 3, § 17, effective June 27, 2022.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-162 - Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure Program › Section 42-162-2. - Definitions.

§ 42-162-2. Definitions.
As used in this chapter, the following terms, unless the context requires a different interpretation, shall have the following meanings:
(1)
“Department” means the department of transportation.
(2)
“Electric vehicle charging infrastructure” means equipment that supplies electricity to charge electric vehicles, including charging stations and balance of plant.
(3)
“Electric vehicle charging infrastructure funds” means but is not limited to, federal funds allocated for electric vehicle charging infrastructure from the federal infrastructure investment and jobs act and any funds allocated as state match to federal funds.
(4)
“Federal funds” means monies allocated for electric vehicle charging infrastructure from the infrastructure investment and jobs act.
(5)
“Office” means the office of energy resources.
History of Section.
P.L. 2022, ch. 231, art. 3, § 17, effective June 27, 2022.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-162 - Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure Program › Section 42-162-3. - Implementation of electric vehicle charging infrastructure investment program.

§ 42-162-3. Implementation of electric vehicle charging infrastructure investment program.
(a)
There is hereby established an electric vehicle charging infrastructure investment program. The department and office shall, in consultation with the department of environmental management, establish the electric vehicle charging infrastructure investment program to be administered by the office in consultation with the department.
(b)
The department and office, in consultation with the department of environmental management, shall propose draft program and investment criteria on the electric vehicle charging infrastructure investment program and accept public comment for thirty (30) days. The draft shall specify the incentive levels, eligibility criteria, and program rules for electric vehicle charging infrastructure incentives. The program and investment criteria shall be finalized by the office and department after the public comment period closes and include responses to submitted public comments.
(c)
The department and office shall provide a website for the electric vehicle charging infrastructure investment program to support public accessibility.
History of Section.
P.L. 2022, ch. 231, art. 3, § 17, effective June 27, 2022.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-162 - Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure Program › Section 42-162-4. - Reporting.

§ 42-162-4. Reporting.
The department and office shall provide a report to the governor and general assembly by December 31, 2023, on the results of the electric vehicle charging infrastructure investment program. The department and office shall provide an annual report to the governor and general assembly until the federal funds have been completely utilized.
History of Section.
P.L. 2022, ch. 231, art. 3, § 17, effective June 27, 2022.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-163 - The Rhode Island Broadband Development Program › Section 42-163-1. - Definitions.

§ 42-163-1. Definitions.
As used in this chapter, the following words shall have the following meanings:
(1)
“Broadband” means “a high-capacity transmission technique using a wide range of frequencies to deliver high-speed internet including both wireline and wireless technologies” and shall include, but not be limited to: goals for broadband elements such as speed, latency, affordability, access, sustainability, and digital equity.
(2)
“Broadband advisory council” or “council” means the broadband advisory council established pursuant to the provisions of § 42-163-4.
(3)
“Broadband director” or “director” means the broadband coordinator designated pursuant to the provisions of § 42-163-2.
(4)
“Digital literacy” means the ability to use information and communication technologies to find, evaluate, create and communicate information, requiring both cognitive and technical skills.
(5)
“Underserved” means a geographic location of the state in which there is no broadband internet service available at consistent speeds with the ability to scale upload speeds over time consistent with technology trends.
(6)
“Unserved” means a geographic location of the state in which there is no provider of broadband internet service that offers dedicated internet access for transmission at consistent speeds with the ability to scale upload speeds over time consistent with technology trends.
History of Section.
P.L. 2022, ch. 231, art. 9, § 15, effective June 27, 2022.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-163 - The Rhode Island Broadband Development Program › Section 42-163-2. - Broadband director.

§ 42-163-2. Broadband director.
An employee of the commerce corporation shall be designated by the secretary of commerce as the broadband director. The broadband director shall be responsible for connecting and communicating with the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) and other federal agencies, as appropriate, to access federal funds for broadband infrastructure deployment pursuant to federal grants, facilitating broadband service adoption, expanding digital literacy for residents experiencing economic hardship, and for future economic development. The broadband director shall perform such other duties as assigned by the secretary of commerce.
History of Section.
P.L. 2022, ch. 231, art. 9, § 15, effective June 27, 2022.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-163 - The Rhode Island Broadband Development Program › Section 42-163-3. - Duties and powers of broadband director.

§ 42-163-3. Duties and powers of broadband director.
(a)
Creating or otherwise administering grants, programs, projects, initiatives, or mapping efforts to further the investment in and development of broadband and digital equity in the state. Pending availability of funding, these may include: developing a mapping process to review and verify transmission speeds and broadband availability throughout the state; providing information, advice, and technical assistance to municipalities, regions, and others to increase broadband adoption and digital equity; and proposing legislation that supports increased digital equity and sustainable adoption of broadband.
(b)
The executive office of commerce may seek advice from the broadband advisory council in the review of proposals for adoption of technologies required to deploy broadband to residents, businesses, and municipalities. The executive office of commerce or any state agency or quasi-public state agency charged with administering such grant and other programs is authorized to promulgate rules and regulations that set forth the programs’ goals, investment criteria, principles, and parameters.
(c)
The executive office of commerce or any state agency or quasi-public state agency charged with administering such grant and other programs shall follow applicable federal and state reporting and transparency requirements for any program established, including the allocation and utilization of federal dollars.
(d)
In consultation with the governor’s workforce board, develop a statewide curriculum for advanced digital skills training to establish a talent pipeline matching job seekers and historically underrepresented populations and Rhode Island employers.
(e)
The office shall include the office of regulatory reform and other administration functions that promote, enhance, or regulate various service and functions in order to promote the reform and improvement of the regulatory function of the state.
History of Section.
P.L. 2022, ch. 231, art. 9, § 15, effective June 27, 2022.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-163 - The Rhode Island Broadband Development Program › Section 42-163-4. - Broadband advisory council established.

§ 42-163-4. Broadband advisory council established.
(a)
There is hereby established a broadband advisory council for the purpose of performing the duties enunciated in § 42-163-5.
(b)
The council shall consist of the following nine (9) members:
(1)
The broadband director from Commerce Rhode Island, who shall serve as the chair;
(2)
The Rhode Island emergency management agency director, or designee;
(3)
The Rhode Island League of Cities and Towns executive director, or designee;
(4)
The Boys and Girls Club president, or designee appointed by the senate president;
(5)
The Rhode Island infrastructure bank executive director, or designee;
(6)
A Rhode Island Chamber of Commerce, appointed by the speaker of the house;
(7)
A telecommunications expert, appointed by the senate president;
(8)
A member of the underserved or unserved community appointed by the governor; and
(9)
A broadband or technology expert appointed by the speaker of the house.
(c)
Members of the council shall serve without compensation.
(d)
Vacancies shall be appointed in the same manner as the original appointment.
History of Section.
P.L. 2022, ch. 231, art. 9, § 15, effective June 27, 2022.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-163 - The Rhode Island Broadband Development Program › Section 42-163-5. - Duties and powers of broadband advisory council.

§ 42-163-5. Duties and powers of broadband advisory council.
The broadband advisory council shall advise the executive office of commerce on broadband implementation efforts undertaken by the agency including, but not limited to, the development of a state strategic plan and broadband-related investment strategies. The broadband advisory council shall additionally invite telecommunications/IT experts and broadband stakeholders to inform the council. The broadband advisory council shall provide a written report to the speaker of the house and senate president one month after the close of each quarter with the status of Rhode Island broadband efforts and the level and type of funding obligation and expenditure by awardee through any grant program as well as recommendations for accessing further federal or other funding opportunities for as long as federal or state funding is available for this work.
History of Section.
P.L. 2022, ch. 231, art. 9, § 15, effective June 27, 2022.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-163 - The Rhode Island Broadband Development Program › Section 42-163-6. - Administrative support to broadband advisory council.

§ 42-163-6. Administrative support to broadband advisory council.
The commerce corporation shall be responsible for providing administrative and other support services to the council.
History of Section.
P.L. 2022, ch. 231, art. 9, § 15, effective June 27, 2022.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-163 - The Rhode Island Broadband Development Program › Section 42-163-7. - Meetings and reporting.

§ 42-163-7. Meetings and reporting.
The council shall meet at least quarterly and shall report at least annually on or before December 31 of each year to the general assembly on its findings and recommendations to include, but not limited to, recommendations for proposed legislation to further the purposes of this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 2022, ch. 231, art. 9, § 15, effective June 27, 2022.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-164 - Address Confidentiality Program › Section 42-164-1. - Short title.

§ 42-164-1. Short title.
This chapter shall be known and may be cited as the “Address Confidentiality Program Act.”
History of Section.
P.L. 2022, ch. 190, § 1, effective January 1, 2023; P.L. 2022, ch. 191, § 1, effective January 1, 2023.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-164 - Address Confidentiality Program › Section 42-164-4. - Certification cancellation.

§ 42-164-4. Certification cancellation.
(a)
The secretary shall cancel certification of a program participant who applies using false information.
(b)
The secretary of state may cancel a program participant’s certification for any of the following reasons:
(1)
The program participant does not notify the secretary that he or she has obtained a name change; provided, the program participant may reapply under their new name;
(2)
The program participant fails to notify the secretary of state of a change in actual or mailing address; or
(3)
Mail forwarded to the program participant’s address is returned as nondeliverable; provided that, before terminating a program participant’s certification due to nondeliverable mail, the program shall attempt to contact the participant by telephone and email to resolve the mail delivery and address issue.
(c)
The secretary of state shall send a notice of cancellation to the program participant, setting forth the reasons for cancellation, and attempt to notify the participant by telephone and email. The program participant shall have sixty (60) days to appeal the cancellation decision.
(d)
Program participants may withdraw from the program with written notice to the secretary.
History of Section.
P.L. 2022, ch. 190, § 1, effective January 1, 2023; P.L. 2022, ch. 191, § 1, effective January 1, 2023.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-164 - Address Confidentiality Program › Section 42-164-5. - Agency acceptance of designated address — Waiver.

§ 42-164-5. Agency acceptance of designated address — Waiver.
(a)
A program participant may request that state and local agencies use the substitute address. When creating, modifying, or maintaining a public record, state and local agencies shall accept the substitute address when the program participant provides documentation of certification in the program.
(b)
An agency may request the secretary of state waive the application of subsection (a) of this section, upon showing:
(1)
The agency has a bona fide statutory or administrative requirement for the use of the participant’s actual address that would otherwise be confidential under this chapter; and
(2)
The agency has explained how its acceptance of the substitute address will prevent the agency from meeting its obligations under the law and why it cannot meet its statutory or administrative obligation by a change in its internal procedures.
(c)
Any agency receiving a waiver shall maintain the confidentiality of the program participant’s address by redacting the actual address when the record is released to any person and shall not make the program participant’s actual address available for inspection or copying, except under the following circumstances:
(1)
There is a bona fide statutory or administrative requirement for the communication of an actual address to another agency that has received a waiver from the secretary of state; provided that, each waiver specifically authorizes such communication with the specified agency; or
(2)
If directed by a court order, to a person identified in the order.
History of Section.
P.L. 2022, ch. 190, § 1, effective January 1, 2023; P.L. 2022, ch. 191, § 1, effective January 1, 2023.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-164 - Address Confidentiality Program › Section 42-164-6. - Disclosure of address prohibited — Exceptions.

§ 42-164-6. Disclosure of address prohibited — Exceptions.
(a)
The secretary of state may not make a program participant’s address, other than substitute address, available for inspection or copying, except under the following circumstances:
(1)
If requested by a law enforcement agency for a law enforcement purpose with an accompanying warrant; or
(2)
If directed by a court order, to a person identified in the order.
(b)
The secretary of state shall provide immediate notification of disclosure to a program participant when disclosure takes place under this section, unless specific language in a warrant or court order prohibits it.
History of Section.
P.L. 2022, ch. 190, § 1, effective January 1, 2023; P.L. 2022, ch. 191, § 1, effective January 1, 2023.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-164 - Address Confidentiality Program › Section 42-164-7. - Nondisclosure of address in criminal and civil proceedings.

§ 42-164-7. Nondisclosure of address in criminal and civil proceedings.
No person shall be compelled to disclose a program participant’s actual address during the discovery phase of or during a proceeding before a court of competent jurisdiction or administrative tribunal unless the court or administrative tribunal finds, based upon a preponderance of the evidence, that the disclosure is required in the interests of justice. A court or administrative tribunal may seal that portion of any record that contains a program participant’s actual address. Nothing in this section shall prevent the state, in its discretion, from using a program participant’s actual address in any document or record filed with a court or administrative tribunal if, at the time of filing, the document or record is not a public record.
History of Section.
P.L. 2022, ch. 190, § 1, effective January 1, 2023; P.L. 2022, ch. 191, § 1, effective January 1, 2023.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-164 - Address Confidentiality Program › Section 42-164-8. - Assistance for program applicants.

§ 42-164-8. Assistance for program applicants.
The secretary of state shall designate state and local agencies and nonprofit agencies that provide counseling and shelter services to victims of domestic violence or abuse to assist persons applying to be program participants. Any assistance and counseling rendered by the secretary of state or designee to applicants shall in no way be construed as legal advice.
History of Section.
P.L. 2022, ch. 190, § 1, effective January 1, 2023; P.L. 2022, ch. 191, § 1, effective January 1, 2023.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-164 - Address Confidentiality Program › Section 42-164-9. - Adoption of rules.

§ 42-164-9. Adoption of rules.
The secretary of state shall adopt regulations to facilitate the administration of this chapter pursuant to the rulemaking provisions of chapter 35 of title 42 (administrative procedures). The rules shall include, at a minimum, procedures for renewing participation in the program every five (5) years, procedures for appealing a cancellation of program participation, and a secure procedure for ensuring that requests for withdrawal are legitimate.
History of Section.
P.L. 2022, ch. 190, § 1, effective January 1, 2023; P.L. 2022, ch. 191, § 1, effective January 1, 2023.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-164 - Address Confidentiality Program › Section 42-164-10. - Civil liability for knowing and intentional disclosure.

§ 42-164-10. Civil liability for knowing and intentional disclosure.
No person shall knowingly and intentionally obtain or disclose a program participant’s actual address knowing that they were not authorized to do so. A person who violates this section shall be assessed a civil penalty of not more than five thousand dollars ($5,000). Each unauthorized disclosure shall constitute a separate civil violation. Nothing in this section shall preclude criminal prosecution for a violation.
History of Section.
P.L. 2022, ch. 190, § 1, effective January 1, 2023; P.L. 2022, ch. 191, § 1, effective January 1, 2023.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-164 - Address Confidentiality Program › Section 42-164-11. - Good faith handling of mail — Protection from civil liability.

§ 42-164-11. Good faith handling of mail — Protection from civil liability.
The secretary of state or any member of the department of state who reasonably and in good faith handles any process or mail on behalf of a participant in accordance with this chapter shall be immune from any civil liability that might otherwise result by reason of such actions.
History of Section.
P.L. 2022, ch. 190, § 1, effective January 1, 2023; P.L. 2022, ch. 191, § 1, effective January 1, 2023.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-164 - Address Confidentiality Program › Section 42-164-12. - Severability.

§ 42-164-12. Severability.
If any provision of this chapter or the application thereof to any person or circumstance is held invalid, such invalidity shall not affect other provisions or applications of the chapter that can be given effect without the invalid provision or application, and to this end the provisions of this chapter are declared to be severable.
History of Section.
P.L. 2022, ch. 190, § 1, effective January 1, 2023; P.L. 2022, ch. 191, § 1, effective January 1, 2023.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-165 - Rhode Island Longitudinal Data System Act › Section 42-165-1. - Rhode Island longitudinal data system act.

§ 42-165-1. Rhode Island longitudinal data system act.
This chapter shall be known and may be cited as the “Rhode Island Longitudinal Data System Act.”
History of Section.
P.L. 2023, ch. 79, art. 3, § 10, effective June 16, 2023.