reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-27 - Mechanical Trades › Section 28-27-9.1. - Grandfathering — Licensing of sheet metal contractors and sheet metal journeypersons without examination.

§ 28-27-9.1. Grandfathering — Licensing of sheet metal contractors and sheet metal journeypersons without examination.
(a)(1)
After enactment of this chapter and at any time prior to the expiration of twelve (12) months following enactment of this section, the authority shall, without examination, upon payment of the fees required in this chapter issue through the department of labor and training, division of professional regulation, a sheet metal contractor’s license or sheet metal journeyperson’s license to any applicant who currently holds a valid pipefitter or refrigeration license in the state of Rhode Island. A sheet metal journeyperson shall have a minimum of four (4) years of verified experience in the sheet metal business covered by the license, as applicable.
(2)
An applicant for a sheet metal contractor’s license under this provision must further provide sworn evidence of satisfactory sheet metal experience for a minimum of five (5) years of verified experience in the sheet metal business covered by such license, as applicable.
(b)
Any person qualified to obtain a sheet metal contractor’s license or a sheet metal journeyperson’s license under this section who is prevented from making application herefor by reason of service in the armed forces of the United States during the twelve-month (12) period following enactment of this section [July 7, 2000] shall have three (3) months after discharge or release from active duty to make such application.
History of Section.
P.L. 2000, ch. 119, § 1; P.L. 2002, ch. 380, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-27 - Mechanical Trades › Section 28-27-10. - License of pipefitter or refrigeration/air conditioning or fire protection sprinkler contractor or sheet metal contractor or sprinkler fitter master — Test fee — License fee — Qualifications — Filing deadline.

§ 28-27-10. License of pipefitter or refrigeration/air conditioning or fire protection sprinkler contractor or sheet metal contractor or sprinkler fitter master — Test fee — License fee — Qualifications — Filing deadline.
(a)
No application for a license of a pipefitter or refrigeration/air conditioning or fire protection sprinkler contractor or sheet metal contractor or sprinkler fitter master shall be filed by the department nor shall any applicant be permitted to take the examination for a license as a pipefitter or refrigeration/air conditioning or fire protection sprinkler contractor or sheet metal contractor or sprinkler fitter master unless:
(1)
The test application is accompanied by a test fee as outlined in § 28-27-17;
(2)
Upon passing of a master test, or contractor test for sheet metal contractor applicants, payment of a license fee as outlined in § 28-27-17 is required and the master license will be issued as provided in § 28-27-15; and
(3)
The applicant possesses a certificate of license in full force and effect from the department of labor and training specifying that person as a journeyperson licensed as such for a minimum of one year or the application is accompanied by an affidavit or other reasonably satisfactory evidence showing the laws of another state specifying that person as a pipefitter or refrigeration/air conditioning or fire protection sprinkler contractor or sprinkler fitter master.
(b)
Applications must be filed with the department at least fifteen (15) days prior to the examination date.
History of Section.
P.L. 1990, ch. 102, § 2; P.L. 1999, ch. 330, § 1; P.L. 1999, ch. 437, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-27 - Mechanical Trades › Section 28-27-11. - Journeyperson license — Test fees — License fees and qualifications — Filing deadline for journeyperson.

§ 28-27-11. Journeyperson license — Test fees — License fees and qualifications — Filing deadline for journeyperson.
(a)
No application for a journeyperson’s test shall be filed by the department nor shall any applicant be permitted to take the examination for a license as a journeyperson unless:
(1)
The test application is accompanied by a test fee as outlined in § 28-27-17;
(2)
Upon passing of a journeyperson test, payment of a license fee as outlined in § 28-27-17 is required and the journeyperson license will be issued as provided in § 28-27-15;
(3)
The applicant has possessed for at least five (5) years prior to the filing of the application a certificate of registration in full force and effect from the department of labor and training specifying the person as a registered apprentice, and the application of an applicant:
(i)
Is accompanied by an affidavit or affidavits of his or her employer or former employers or other reasonably satisfactory evidence showing that the applicant has been actually engaged in pipefitting or refrigeration/air conditioning, sheet metal or fire protection sprinkler systems work as an apprentice in the state of Rhode Island during those five (5) years;
(ii)
Is accompanied by an affidavit or other reasonably satisfactory evidence showing that the applicant has been registered as a student in a recognized college, university, or trade school and has pursued a course of pipefitting or refrigeration/air conditioning, sheet metal or fire protection sprinkler systems for at least two (2) academic years or is the recipient of an associate degree in pipefitting or refrigeration/air conditioning or fire protection sprinkler systems, and has thereafter been registered by the department of labor and training as an apprentice for at least three (3) years and employed as a registered apprentice by a duly licensed pipefitter or refrigeration/air conditioning or fire protection sprinkler systems master or sheet metal contractors in this state for a period of three (3) years; or
(iii)
Is accompanied by an affidavit or other reasonably satisfactory evidence showing that the applicant possesses a certificate of license issued under the laws of another state specifying that person as a journeyperson; and
(4)
The licensing authority may grant an exemption to the requirements of subsection (a)(3) on the basis of past experience.
(b)
The test application is to be filed with the department at least fifteen (15) days prior to the examination date.
History of Section.
P.L. 1990, ch. 102, § 2; P.L. 1993, ch. 383, § 1; P.L. 1999, ch. 330, § 1; P.L. 1999, ch. 437, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-27 - Mechanical Trades › Section 28-27-12. - [Repealed.]

§ 28-27-12. [Repealed.]
History of Section.
P.L. 1990, ch. 102, § 2; P.L. 1999, ch. 330, § 1; P.L. 1999, ch. 437, § 1; Repealed by P.L. 2002, ch. 380, § 3, effective June 28, 2002.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-27 - Mechanical Trades › Section 28-27-13. - Change of address.

§ 28-27-13. Change of address.
Any person who holds a certificate of license as a master, journeyperson, or apprentice shall promptly notify the department in the event of a change of address specified on his or her certificate of license. Any person who violates the provisions of this section shall be assessed the sum of twelve dollars ($12.00) as an administrative fee.
History of Section.
P.L. 1990, ch. 102, § 2; P.L. 2002, ch. 65, art. 13, § 9.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-27 - Mechanical Trades › Section 28-27-14. - Examination of applicants.

§ 28-27-14. Examination of applicants.
The department shall provide and conduct examinations three (3) times each year of applicants who have had their application for a pipefitter or refrigeration/air conditioning or fire protection sprinkler contractor/sprinkler fitter master or journeyperson or sheet metal contractor or journeyperson sheet metal worker placed on file with the department. All examinations shall be conducted by the division of professional regulation of the department of labor and training with the aid and cooperation of the board of examiners and shall be conducted at places designated by the department within the state consistent with the reasonable convenience of the applicant. All test materials shall be preserved for three (3) months after the date of the test.
History of Section.
P.L. 1990, ch. 102, § 2; P.L. 1999, ch. 330, § 1; P.L. 1999, ch. 437, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-27 - Mechanical Trades › Section 28-27-15. - Issuance of licensing following examination.

§ 28-27-15. Issuance of licensing following examination.
The director of labor and training shall allow or deny applications for master or contractors’ or journeyperson’s license upon the recommendation of the division as soon after the examination as practicable. Each applicant who has successfully passed the examination and has had his or her application allowed shall be issued a certificate of license in the category tested for as a pipefitter or refrigeration/air conditioning or fire protection sprinkler contractor/sprinkler fitter master or journeyperson or sheet metal contractor or journeyperson sheet metal worker by the division on payment of the proper fee.
History of Section.
P.L. 1990, ch. 102, § 2; P.L. 1999, ch. 330, § 1; P.L. 1999, ch. 437, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-27 - Mechanical Trades › Section 28-27-16. - Reexamination of applicants.

§ 28-27-16. Reexamination of applicants.
Any applicant who has failed an examination shall be permitted to take subsequent examinations at any of the three (3) examinations scheduled during the year as set forth in § 28-27-14. Every retest shall require payment of a separate test fee.
History of Section.
P.L. 1990, ch. 102, § 2; P.L. 1996, ch. 262, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-27 - Mechanical Trades › Section 28-27-17. - Test fees — License fees — Expiration and renewal of licenses.

§ 28-27-17. Test fees — License fees — Expiration and renewal of licenses.
(a)
All licenses issued to the pipefitters/refrigeration technicians and fire protection sprinkler contractor/sprinkler fitters and sheet metal contractor or journeyperson sheet metal worker detailed in this section shall be paid for as follows:
TEST
LICENSE
RENEWAL
Master Mechanical Contractor
—
480.00
480.00
Contractor Master
75.00
240.00
240.00
Pipefitter Master I
75.00
240.00
240.00
Pipefitter Master II
75.00
96.00
96.00
Refrigeration Master I
75.00
240.00
240.00
Refrigeration Master II
75.00
96.00
96.00
Pipefitter Journeyperson I
75.00
72.00
72.00
Pipefitter Journeyperson II
75.00
60.00
60.00
Refrigeration Journeyperson I
75.00
72.00
72.00
Refrigeration Journeyperson II
75.00
60.00
60.00
Apprentices (annual fee)
—
24.00
24.00
Fire Protection Sprinkler
Fitters Master I
75.00
240.00
240.00
Fire Protection Sprinkler
Fitters Journeyperson I
75.00
72.00
72.00
Sheet Metal Contractor
75.00
240.00
240.00
Sheet Metal Worker
Journeyperson
75.00
72.00
72.00
(b)
Apprenticeship renewal fees shall be paid on an annual basis.
(c)
Every license issued by the division of professional regulation to license holders born in odd years shall expire on the birthday of the individual qualifying for the license in odd years and all licenses issued by the division of professional regulation to license holders born in even years shall expire on the birthday of the individual qualifying for the license in even years and all licenses may be renewed on or before their expiration date, upon payment of the appropriate fee. If any credit is due in the initial changeover year the amount of credit shall be determined by the chief administrator of the division.
History of Section.
P.L. 1990, ch. 102, § 2; P.L. 1999, ch. 330, § 1; P.L. 1999, ch. 437, § 1; P.L. 2002, ch. 65, art. 13, § 9; P.L. 2004, ch. 595, art. 13, § 4; P.L. 2009, ch. 257, § 3; P.L. 2009, ch. 258, § 3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-27 - Mechanical Trades › Section 28-27-17.1. - Failure to renew license.

§ 28-27-17.1. Failure to renew license.
Any licensed master, contractor journeyperson, or apprentice who does not renew his or her license on or before his or her birthdate shall be required to pay a twelve-dollar-per-month ($12) administrative assessment fee for the first two (2) years of delinquency, plus outstanding license fees. If a license is not renewed within two (2) years of its expiration it shall result in a forfeiture of the license, notwithstanding any other provisions of this chapter. In the case of forfeiture, a license may only be reinstated by the person taking a test for a new license.
History of Section.
P.L. 1990, ch. 102, § 2; P.L. 1993, ch. 210, § 1; P.L. 1999, ch. 330, § 1; P.L. 1999, ch. 437, § 1; P.L. 2002, ch. 65, art. 13, § 9.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-27 - Mechanical Trades › Section 28-27-17.2. - Certificates expiring while licensee is in federal service.

§ 28-27-17.2. Certificates expiring while licensee is in federal service.
Any pipefitter, refrigeration, sprinkler fitter or sheet metal worker license expiring while the holder thereof is in the military, naval, or air service of the United States shall be renewed without further examination, upon payment of the prescribed fee, at any time within four (4) months after that person’s discharge from the service.
History of Section.
P.L. 1993, ch. 212, § 1; P.L. 1999, ch. 330, § 1; P.L. 1999, ch. 437, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-27 - Mechanical Trades › Section 28-27-18. - Registration of apprentices.

§ 28-27-18. Registration of apprentices.
(a)
Any person who has agreed to work under the supervision of a licensed pipefitter, refrigeration/air conditioning, sprinkler fitter, or sheet metal master under a state-sanctioned apprenticeship program shall be registered by the director of labor and training and be issued a certificate of apprenticeship.
(b)
The minimum formal training period for a P.J.F. limited class II license shall be one hundred sixty (160) hours of classroom and/or laboratory technical training, approved by the department of labor and training. The fee schedules for the P.J.F. limited license are detailed in § 28-27-5.2. All other sections of this chapter shall remain in full force and effect.
History of Section.
P.L. 1990, ch. 102, § 2; P.L. 1993, ch. 383, § 1; P.L. 1999, ch. 330, § 1; P.L. 1999, ch. 437, § 1; P.L. 2002, ch. 65, art. 13, § 9; P.L. 2002, ch. 380, § 2; P.L. 2017, ch. 302, art. 13, § 3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-27 - Mechanical Trades › Section 28-27-19. - License displayed in place of business.

§ 28-27-19. License displayed in place of business.
In every place in this state within and from which a pipefitter or refrigeration/air conditioning or fire protection sprinkler systems or air distribution business is conducted as specified for a pipefitter or refrigeration/air conditioning or fire protection sprinkler contractor/sprinkler fitter master or sheet metal contractor there shall be at all times a certificate of license as provided in this chapter. The certificate shall contain the name, address, social security number, state license number, classification, and limitations, if any, on the license. All vehicles used in those businesses shall be identified as being regulated by the bureau and will display with no less than three-inch (3) lettering, the contractors category, license number, and company name.
History of Section.
P.L. 1990, ch. 102, § 2; P.L. 1999, ch. 330, § 1; P.L. 1999, ch. 437, § 1; P.L. 2001, ch. 370, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-27 - Mechanical Trades › Section 28-27-20. - State and municipal inspections and installation permits.

§ 28-27-20. State and municipal inspections and installation permits.
Nothing in this chapter shall prohibit any city, town, or the state from providing for a pipefitter or refrigeration/air conditioning or fire protection sprinkler systems or air distribution systems inspection or from requiring permits for the installation, maintenance, repair, and servicing of pipefitting or refrigeration/air conditioning or fire protection sprinkler systems or air distribution systems and collecting fees thereof. Whenever a permit is required under the provisions of this section, a condition of its issuance shall be that the contractor’s license number and a copy of the contractor’s license first be affixed on the permit which must be signed by the contractor. The permit must be obtained from the state, city, or town prior to the installation. Where equipment and appliance replacements or repairs must be performed in an emergency situation, the permit application shall be submitted within the next business day to the office of mechanical inspection.
History of Section.
P.L. 1990, ch. 102, § 2; P.L. 1999, ch. 330, § 1; P.L. 1999, ch. 437, § 1; P.L. 2001, ch. 370, § 1; P.L. 2004, ch. 38, § 1; P.L. 2004, ch. 143, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-27 - Mechanical Trades › Section 28-27-21. - Grounds for revocation of license.

§ 28-27-21. Grounds for revocation of license.
The director of labor and training shall revoke or suspend the license or impose a fine on any pipefitter or refrigeration/air conditioning or fire protection sprinkler contractor/sprinkler fitter master or journeyperson or sheet metal contractor or journeyperson sheet metal worker after hearing before and recommendation of the board, when the weight of the evidence establishes any one or more of the following specific violations:
(1)
Obtaining or conspiring with others to obtain a license by inducing the issuance of that license in consideration of the payment of money, or any other thing of value, or by and through a willful or fraudulent misrepresentation of facts or the procurement thereof;
(2)
Willfully violating any ordinances or rules of any cities or towns or of any laws in this state regulating the conduct of pipefitting or refrigeration/air conditioning or fire protection sprinkler systems or air distribution systems work;
(3)
Knowingly hiring, directly aiding or assisting any person to engage in the work specified for a pipefitter or refrigeration/air conditioning or fire protection sprinkler contractor/sprinkler fitter master or journeyperson or sheet metal contractor or journeyperson sheet metal worker when that person does not have a license as provided in this chapter;
(4)
Any pipefitter or refrigeration/air conditioning or fire protection sprinkler contractor/sprinkler fitter master or journeyperson or sheet metal contractor or journeyperson sheet metal worker willfully and fraudulently loaning his or her license to any other person for the purpose of permitting that person to engage in any work in violation of this chapter;
(5)
Being convicted of a felony; or
(6)
Willfully violating any of the provisions of this chapter including the rules, regulations, and licensing criteria guide promulgated under this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1990, ch. 102, § 2; P.L. 1991, ch. 196, § 1; P.L. 1999, ch. 330, § 1; P.L. 1999, ch. 437, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-27 - Mechanical Trades › Section 28-27-22. - Procedure for revocation of license.

§ 28-27-22. Procedure for revocation of license.
(a)
No proceedings to revoke a license as provided in this section shall be instituted unless filed with the department of labor and training within one year after the date or dates of violation(s).
(b)
No license shall be revoked or cancelled until a full and impartial hearing as provided in this section.
(c)
No hearing for the purpose of revoking any license of master or contractor or journeyperson shall be held unless there is first placed on file with the department a verified complaint, in writing, reciting therein with reasonable particularity a statement of facts that, if proved, would be sufficient to constitute a violation of one or more of the specifications as set forth in § 28-27-21.
(d)
Upon the filing of a verified complaint as provided in this chapter, the department shall promptly set a date for the hearing of the charges which shall be held in the city of Providence in this state. The department shall promptly by registered, certified mail forward to the licensee charged in the complaint a true and honest copy of the complaint and notification of the time and place a hearing of the charges shall be held.
(e)
At the time and place fixed in the notification, the department shall proceed to a hearing before the board of the charges specified in the complaint. No hearing upon the charges of the complaint shall be had unless the records of the department contain evidence that the licensee charged in the complaint has been served with a copy of the complaint and notification of at least twenty (20) days prior to the date of the hearing; provided, that the appearance of the licensee so charged, either in his or her own behalf or by counsel, shall constitute proof that sufficient notice of hearing was served.
(f)
A complaining party by him or herself or by counsel may aid in the presentation of evidence toward sustaining the complaint. Ample opportunity shall be accorded for hearing all evidence and statement of counsel either in support or against the charges of the complaint. Upon good cause shown, the date of the hearing on the complaint may be continued; provided that the licensee and other interested parties shall be reasonably notified about the date of the continuance.
History of Section.
P.L. 1990, ch. 102, § 2; P.L. 1991, ch. 196, § 1; P.L. 1999, ch. 330, § 1; P.L. 1999, ch. 437, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-27 - Mechanical Trades › Section 28-27-22.1. - Subpoena of a witness.

§ 28-27-22.1. Subpoena of a witness.
The department shall have the power to subpoena and bring before it or the board of examiners any witnesses to the testimony either orally or by deposition, or both, with the same fees and mileage and in the same manner as prescribed by law in the judicial procedure in civil cases in the superior court of the state.
History of Section.
P.L. 1990, ch. 102, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-27 - Mechanical Trades › Section 28-27-22.2. - Subpoena powers.

§ 28-27-22.2. Subpoena powers.
Prior to or during a hearing the director and division chief shall have the power to administer oaths and examine witnesses under oath, issue subpoenas, subpoenas duces tecum, compel the attendance of witnesses, and the production of papers, books, accounts, records, payrolls, documents, and testimony and to take depositions and affidavits in any proceeding before the director.
History of Section.
P.L. 1990, ch. 102, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-27 - Mechanical Trades › Section 28-27-23. - Administration of oaths.

§ 28-27-23. Administration of oaths.
The director and his or her designees shall have the power to administer oaths to witnesses at a hearing that the department has authorized by law to conduct and any other oaths authorized or administered by the department.
History of Section.
P.L. 1990, ch. 102, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-27 - Mechanical Trades › Section 28-27-24. - Recommendations of board — Order of the director — Appeal.

§ 28-27-24. Recommendations of board — Order of the director — Appeal.
(a)
The board, upon the completion of any hearing held on a verified complaint, shall present to the director of labor and training a written report of its findings and recommendations. The director shall then order that the license of the licensee charged shall be revoked or suspended, or impose a fine of one thousand five hundred dollars ($1,500) for a first violation and two thousand dollars ($2,000) for any subsequent violation within one year of the first violation, or that the complaint shall be dismissed in accordance with the recommendations. A copy of the order shall be immediately served upon the licensee and/or violator personally or by registered or certified mail. The order of the board is final unless the licensee and/or violator so charged or complainant within twenty (20) days after receipt of the order files an appeal with the director. The appeal will be determined by the administrator of the division or his or her designee. The director may accept or reject, in whole or in part, the recommended order of the board. The order of the director shall be final, and a copy of it shall be immediately served upon the person, firm, or corporation assessed.
(b)
The division is considered a person for the purpose of this section.
(c)
The chief of the section shall act as an investigator with respect to the enforcement of all the provisions of law relative to the licensing of pipefitting, refrigeration, sprinkler fitting, and sheet metal and, to this effect, whenever a complaint is made by the chief of the section to the department of labor and training director, or designee, that the provisions of this chapter are being violated, the director of the department of labor and training, or designee, may issue an order to cease and desist from that violation and may impose the above penalties against the violator and against the contractor. Each individual person acting in violation of the provisions of this chapter shall constitute a separate offense to any violator and/or contractor assessed a penalty under this section.
History of Section.
P.L. 1990, ch. 102, § 2; P.L. 1991, ch. 196, § 1; P.L. 2002, ch. 380, § 2; P.L. 2014, ch. 265, § 2; P.L. 2014, ch. 319, § 2; P.L. 2017, ch. 407, § 2; P.L. 2017, ch. 432, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-27 - Mechanical Trades › Section 28-27-24.1. - Compelling obedience to subpoenas.

§ 28-27-24.1. Compelling obedience to subpoenas.
In case of failure of any person to comply with any lawfully issued subpoena or subpoena duces tecum, or on the refusal of any witness to testify to any matter regarding which he or she may be lawfully interrogated, it shall be the duty of the district court or any judge of the district court, on application by the director, to compel obedience by proceedings in the nature of those for contempt.
History of Section.
P.L. 1990, ch. 102, § 2; P.L. 2022, ch. 234, art. 1, § 14, effective December 31, 2022.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-27 - Mechanical Trades › Section 28-27-25. - Judicial review of proceedings.

§ 28-27-25. Judicial review of proceedings.
The superior court of the county where the licensee and/or violator so charged resided shall have the power to review the entire proceedings of any hearing had before the director and to review any order dismissing a complaint or revocation of a license and all questions of law presented by the record provided an appeal is filed pursuant to chapter 35 of title 42.
History of Section.
P.L. 1990, ch. 102, § 2; P.L. 2002, ch. 380, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-27 - Mechanical Trades › Section 28-27-25.1. - Judicial enforcement.

§ 28-27-25.1. Judicial enforcement.
The district court shall have jurisdiction to enforce compliance with the provisions of this chapter upon petition being filed by the director of labor and training, or his or her designee, and notice being given to the person or persons charged with a violation of the provisions of this chapter, and it may issue any process of injunction, mandamus, or otherwise that in the opinion of the court is necessary to enforce compliance with the provisions of this chapter, but no ex parte restraining order shall be issued unless upon showing satisfactory to the court that danger to life or property is imminent, and in that case citation to the defendant shall be returnable not more than five (5) days after the ex parte restraining order is entered.
History of Section.
P.L. 1990, ch. 102, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-27 - Mechanical Trades › Section 28-27-26. - [Repealed.]

§ 28-27-26. [Repealed.]
History of Section.
P.L. 1990, ch. 102, § 2; P.L. 1999, ch. 114, § 3; Repealed by P.L. 2002, ch. 380, § 3, effective June 28, 2002.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-27 - Mechanical Trades › Section 28-27-26.1. - Enforcement.

§ 28-27-26.1. Enforcement.
(a)
It shall be the duty of the director of the department of labor and training and of state and local inspection authorities to enforce the provisions of this chapter. Local building and related inspectors, who are involved in day-to-day inspection, shall have the primary responsibility for enforcing the provisions of this chapter. The above individuals shall have authority to demand the production of the licenses and certificates required by this chapter on any site where work that is the subject of this chapter is occurring, and shall have the authority to investigate and where appropriate make complaints pursuant to § 28-27-21, § 28-27-28, or § 28-22-2 where sufficient evidence has been obtained to sustain a reasonable belief that a violation of this chapter has occurred.
(b)
The state board of examiners shall also have concurrent responsibility to enforce the provisions of this chapter, and shall have the authority to demand the production of the licenses and certificates required by this chapter on any site where work that is the subject of this chapter is occurring, and shall have the authority to investigate and where appropriate make complaints pursuant to § 28-27-21, § 28-27-28, or § 28-22-2 where sufficient evidence has been obtained to sustain a reasonable belief that a violation of this chapter has occurred. The director of the department of labor and training shall provide identification to the board members for the purposes of this section.
History of Section.
P.L. 1998, ch. 239, § 4; P.L. 2002, ch. 380, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-27 - Mechanical Trades › Section 28-27-27. - [Repealed.]

§ 28-27-27. [Repealed.]
History of Section.
P.L. 1990, ch. 102, § 2; Repealed by P.L. 2002, ch. 380, § 3, effective June 28, 2002.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-27 - Mechanical Trades › Section 28-27-29. - Persons and acts exempt.

§ 28-27-29. Persons and acts exempt.
(a)
The provisions of this chapter shall not apply to persons classified as maintenance personnel regularly in the employ of a public utility company doing utility company work, hospitals, schools, city, town or state employees regularly employed as maintenance personnel on the premises of the employer, and to any person employed in a plant maintenance department.
(b)
“Maintenance” is confined to the specific premise and means preserving or repairing anything that exists and can be maintained by persons regularly employed within a specific building or complex. Normally, city or town permits are not required for this work, nor is a state pipefitters/refrigeration or sheet metal workers license.
(c)
“Service work” means work performed by state licensed qualified tradespersons or pipefitters/refrigeration mechanics or sheet metal workers.
(d)
“Installation or new construction” means the modification, altering, or installation of any piping/refrigeration or air distribution systems or their components (i.e., boilers, pumps, compressors, circulators, fans, and coils). This work requires state licensed pipefitter/refrigeration workers or sheet metal workers and city and town or state mechanical permits. If boiler installation is over two hundred thousand (200,000) BTU’s on commercial work, a state boiler permit from occupational safety is required.
History of Section.
P.L. 1990, ch. 102, § 2; P.L. 1999, ch. 330, § 1; P.L. 1999, ch. 437, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-27 - Mechanical Trades › Section 28-27-30. - Enforcement procedures.

§ 28-27-30. Enforcement procedures.
Violations of this chapter may be enjoined upon bill of complaint being filed in the superior court for the county in which those violations have been committed by the department of labor and training or by any association of pipefitter or refrigeration/air conditioning masters or journeypersons, licensed pipefitter or refrigeration/air condition masters or journeypersons, or association of sheet metal contractors or journeyperson sheet metal workers, licensed sheet metal contractor or journeyperson sheet metal worker or by any inspector. Injunctions may be granted by the superior court after hearing in open court against any person, firm, corporation, or association that has violated any of the provisions of this chapter, without regard to whether proceedings have been or may have been instituted before the department. No ex parte restraining orders shall be issued in suits brought pursuant to this section. Violators may also be ordered to pay the complaint’s reasonable attorney’s fees.
History of Section.
P.L. 1990, ch. 102, § 2; P.L. 1991, ch. 196, § 1; P.L. 1993, ch. 149, § 1; P.L. 1999, ch. 330, § 1; P.L. 1999, ch. 437, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-27 - Mechanical Trades › Section 28-27-30.1. - Severability.

§ 28-27-30.1. Severability.
If any provision or part of this chapter, or its application to any person or circumstances, is held unconstitutional or otherwise invalid, the remaining provisions of this chapter and the application of the provisions to other persons or circumstances other than those to which it is held invalid, shall not be affected by that invalidity.
History of Section.
P.L. 1990, ch. 102, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-27 - Mechanical Trades › Section 28-27-31. - [Repealed.]

§ 28-27-31. [Repealed.]
History of Section.
P.L. 1978, ch. 214, § 1; P.L. 1980, ch. 204, § 1; P.L. 1990, ch. 102, § 2; Repealed by P.L. 1995, ch. 323, § 10, effective July 5, 1995.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-27 - Mechanical Trades › Section 28-27-32. - Discrimination.

§ 28-27-32. Discrimination.
The department of labor and training shall not grant, deny, suspend, or revoke the license of any person on the grounds of race, color, religious creed, sex, age, national origin, disability, or ancestry.
History of Section.
P.L. 1990, ch. 102, § 2; P.L. 1991, ch. 149, § 4; P.L. 1991, ch. 323, § 4; P.L. 1997, ch. 150, § 6.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-27 - Mechanical Trades › Section 28-27-33. - Investigator’s devotion to duties — Assignment of investigators.

§ 28-27-33. Investigator’s devotion to duties — Assignment of investigators.
Investigators shall devote their entire scheduled work time and attention to the duties of their respective offices. The administrator of the division of professional regulation shall assign investigators to the duties to be performed. No employee of the division shall do or accept employment with another employer that is in conflict with his or her official duties.
History of Section.
P.L. 1990, ch. 102, § 2; P.L. 1995, ch. 323, § 9; P.L. 2002, ch. 380, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-27 - Mechanical Trades › Section 28-27-34. - “Division” and “chief administrator” defined.

§ 28-27-34. “Division” and “chief administrator” defined.
(a)
“Division” means the division of professional regulation within the department of labor and training as established by § 28-22-1, in which all bureaus, boards, and commissions will serve and act in an advisory capacity to the director of labor and training in their area of expertise within the division of professional regulation. The division administers chapters 26 and 27 of this title and chapter 6 of title 5.
(b)
“Chief administrator” means the person appointed by the director of labor and training under § 28-22-1 to act as his or her liaison with all bureaus, boards, and commissions encompassed by this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1990, ch. 102, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-29 - Workers’ Compensation — General Provisions › Section 28-29-1. - Short title.

§ 28-29-1. Short title.
Chapters 29 — 38 of this title may be cited as the “Workers’ Compensation Act.”
History of Section.
P.L. 1912, ch. 831, art. 5, § 7; G.L. 1923, ch. 92, art. 8, § 5; G.L. 1938, ch. 300, art. 9, § 6; P.L. 1954, ch. 3297, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 28-29-1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-29 - Workers’ Compensation — General Provisions › Section 28-29-1.1. - Name change.

§ 28-29-1.1. Name change.
Wherever in the general or public laws there appears the word “workmen’s” in relation to workmen’s compensation, it shall be substituted with the word “workers’.”
History of Section.
P.L. 1978, ch. 231, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-29 - Workers’ Compensation — General Provisions › Section 28-29-1.2. - Legislative findings and implementation of reforms.

§ 28-29-1.2. Legislative findings and implementation of reforms.
(a)(1)
WHEREAS, the system of workers’ compensation in the state of Rhode Island is presently in a state of crisis; and
(2)
WHEREAS, the stability and fiscal health of the overall workers’ compensation system is essential to the delivery of appropriate compensation and health care to the injured worker; and
(3)
WHEREAS, all professionals providing services covered under the provisions of this title must take into account, in the performance of their service, the important public policy in favor of a sound and properly functioning workers’ compensation system in this state, and have the duty to protect and maintain the integrity of this system; and
(4)
WHEREAS, abuse and misuse of the workers’ compensation system has brought discredit on the system and its participants, including the legitimately injured worker, and has endangered the stability and fiscal health of the system; and
(5)
WHEREAS, significant improvement has already been initiated by the general assembly’s 1990 reforms and by the administration of the workers’ compensation court; and
(6)
WHEREAS, sweeping additional reform is required to bring the system into balance and eliminate waste and unnecessary costs; and
(7)
WHEREAS, additional incentives are necessary to induce insurers adequately and vigorously to manage their cases; to swiftly and fairly identify and remove from the workers’ compensation system employees who are no longer disabled; to swiftly and fairly make appropriate adjustments for employees who are capable of employment; to motivate return to gainful employment in the work force; to improve the safety of the workplace and the rehabilitation to gainful employment in the work force; to improve the safety of the workplace and the rehabilitation to gainful employment of the injured worker; and to ensure that all participants in the system recognize their obligation to conduct themselves in a manner consistent with the overall integrity and welfare of the compensation system, and that deviation from that conduct is at their peril.
(b)
Any amendment to chapters 29 — 38 of this title that may affect the cost of workers’ compensation to the state of Rhode Island shall have a fiscal note attached.
History of Section.
P.L. 1992, ch. 31, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-29 - Workers’ Compensation — General Provisions › Section 28-29-1.3. - Jurisdiction of Workers’ Compensation Act.

§ 28-29-1.3. Jurisdiction of Workers’ Compensation Act.
The provisions of chapters 29 — 38 of this title shall apply to any and all employees, as defined in § 28-29-2, who are injured or hired in the state of Rhode Island.
History of Section.
P.L. 2002, ch. 119, § 1; P.L. 2002, ch. 280, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-29 - Workers’ Compensation — General Provisions › Section 28-29-3. - Defenses abrogated as to injuries in course of employment.

§ 28-29-3. Defenses abrogated as to injuries in course of employment.
In an action to recover damages for personal injury sustained by an employee arising out of and in the course of his or her employment, connected with and referable to the employment, or for death resulting from personal injury so sustained, it shall not be a defense:
(1)
That the employee was negligent;
(2)
That the injury was caused by the negligence of a fellow employee;
(3)
That the employee has assumed the risk of the injury.
History of Section.
P.L. 1912, ch. 831, art. 1, § 1; G.L. 1923, ch. 92, art. 1, § 1; P.L. 1936, ch. 2290, § 1; P.L. 1936, ch. 2358, § 1; G.L. 1938, ch. 300, art. 1, § 1; P.L. 1949, ch. 2282, § 1; P.L. 1954, ch. 3297, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 28-29-3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-29 - Workers’ Compensation — General Provisions › Section 28-29-4. - Defenses available in action against employer subject to law — Towns and cities.

§ 28-29-4. Defenses available in action against employer subject to law — Towns and cities.
The provisions of § 28-29-3 shall not apply to actions to recover damages for personal injuries or for death resulting from personal injuries sustained by an employee of an employer who is subject to or has elected to become subject to the provisions of chapters 29 — 38 of this title, as provided in §§ 28-29-6 — 28-29-8, nor to any action brought against a town or city by an employee of a town or city, unless that town or city votes to accept the provisions of those chapters in the manner provided.
History of Section.
P.L. 1912, ch. 831, art. 1, § 4; P.L. 1917, ch. 1534, § 1; G.L. 1923, ch. 92, art. 1, § 4; G.L. 1938, ch. 300, art 1, § 3; P.L. 1954, ch. 3297, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 28-29-4.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-29 - Workers’ Compensation — General Provisions › Section 28-29-5. - Employers exempt.

§ 28-29-5. Employers exempt.
The provisions of chapters 29 — 38 of this title shall not apply to employers of employees engaged in domestic service; or subject to the provisions of § 28-29-7.2, to employees engaged in agriculture; except for employers engaged in occupations that the director declares hazardous, but employers not engaged in hazardous occupations may, by complying with the provisions of § 28-29-8, become subject to the provisions of those chapters.
History of Section.
P.L. 1912, ch. 831, art. 1, §§ 2, 3; G.L. 1923, ch. 92, art. 1, §§ 2, 3; P.L. 1926, ch. 764, § 1; G.L. 1938, ch. 300, art. 1, § 2; P.L. 1954, ch. 3297, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 28-29-5; P.L. 1985, ch. 365, § 4; P.L. 1997, ch. 155, § 2; P.L. 1998, ch. 32, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-29 - Workers’ Compensation — General Provisions › Section 28-29-6. - Employers subject to law.

§ 28-29-6. Employers subject to law.
Every person, firm, and private corporation, including any public service corporation, including the state, that regularly employs employees in the same business or in or about the same establishment under any contract of hire, express or implied, and a city or town in this state that votes to accept the provisions of those chapters in the manner provided shall constitute an employer subject to the provisions of chapters 29 — 38 of this title.
History of Section.
G.L. 1938, ch. 300, art. 1, § 4; P.L. 1954, ch. 3297, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 28-29-6; P.L. 1992, ch. 31, § 2; P.L. 1994, ch. 101, § 2; P.L. 1994, ch. 401, § 3; P.L. 1998, ch. 32, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-29 - Workers’ Compensation — General Provisions › Section 28-29-6.1. - Secondary provision of workers’ compensation insurance.

§ 28-29-6.1. Secondary provision of workers’ compensation insurance.
(a)
Whenever a general contractor or a construction manager enters into a contract with a subcontractor for work to be performed in Rhode Island, the general contractor or construction manager shall at all times require written documentation evidencing that the subcontractor carries workers’ compensation insurance with no indebtedness for its employees for the term of the contract or is an independent contractor pursuant to the provisions of § 28-29-17.1. In the event that the general contractor or construction manager fails to obtain the written documentation from the subcontractor, the general contractor or construction manager shall be deemed to be the employer pursuant to provisions of § 28-29-2.
(b)
For the purposes of this section, “construction manager” means an individual corporation, partnership, or joint venture or other legal entity responsible for supervising and controlling all aspects of construction work to be performed on the construction project, as designated in the project documents, in addition to the possibility of performing some of the construction services itself. For the purposes of this section, the construction manager need have no contractual involvement with any of the parties to the construction project other than the owner, or may contract directly with the trade contractors pursuant to its agreement with the owner.
(c)
This section only applies to a general contractor, subcontractor, or construction manager deemed an employer subject to the provisions of chapters 29 — 38 of this title, as provided in § 28-29-6.
(d)
Whenever the workers’ compensation insurance carrier is obligated to pay workers’ compensation benefits to the employee of an uninsured subcontractor, the workers’ compensation insurance carrier shall have a complete right of indemnification to the extent benefits are paid against either the uninsured subcontractor, uninsured general contractor, or uninsured construction manager.
History of Section.
P.L. 1994, ch. 385, § 1; P.L. 1995, ch. 38, § 1; P.L. 2000, ch. 491, § 1; P.L. 2003, ch. 388, § 1; P.L. 2003, ch. 395, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-29 - Workers’ Compensation — General Provisions › Section 28-29-6.2. - Employers’ mandatory disclosure.

§ 28-29-6.2. Employers’ mandatory disclosure.
All employers doing business in the state of Rhode Island shall disclose to all prospective employees at the time of application for employment either that the employer is subject to chapters 29 — 38 of this title or is exempt from chapters 29 — 38 of this title. The employer shall also disclose the specific type of exemption. The disclosures required under this section are included on the first page of any written employment application. If the employer does not have a written employment application, the disclosure shall be in writing.
History of Section.
P.L. 1996, ch. 421, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-29 - Workers’ Compensation — General Provisions › Section 28-29-7. - Domestic and farm laborers.

§ 28-29-7. Domestic and farm laborers.
Domestic servants, farmers, farm laborers, except as defined in § 28-29-7.2, are not subject to the provisions of chapters 29 — 38 of this title.
History of Section.
G.L. 1938, ch. 300, art. 1, § 4; P.L. 1954, ch. 3297, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 28-29-7; P.L. 1985, ch. 365, § 4; P.L. 1998, ch. 32, § 1; P.L. 2001, ch. 256, § 1; P.L. 2001, ch. 355, § 1.