reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-53 - Low and Moderate Income Housing › Section 45-53-14. - Database of low-income rental units.

§ 45-53-14. Database of low-income rental units.
(a)
The Rhode Island housing and mortgage finance corporation established pursuant to § 42-55-4 (the “corporation”) shall maintain an online database (“database”) of low-income housing tax credit developments that are designated only for households at or below sixty percent (60%) of area median income, adjusted for household size and subsidized housing developments, as referenced in the corporation’s Rhode Island resource guide, which are designated only for households at or below eighty percent (80%) of area median income, adjusted for household size (collectively “low-income rental units”) in the state on the corporation’s website. The corporation shall place an emphasis on the database containing the following:
(1)
Current, updated information on the existing inventory of low-income rental units in the state;
(2)
The contact person or entity and contact information pertaining to individual developments;
(3)
To the extent the information is available, a copy of the application to apply for housing in individual developments; and
(4)
Information pertaining to any special populations, including, but not limited to, elderly, disabled, homeless individuals, and victims of domestic violence, served by individual developments.
(b)
This database shall be accessible to the public by July 1, 2023.
History of Section.
P.L. 2022, ch. 417, § 1, effective June 30, 2022; P.L. 2022, ch. 421, § 1, effective June 30, 2022.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-53 - Low and Moderate Income Housing › Section 45-53-15. - Annual reports.

§ 45-53-15. Annual reports.
(a)
The Rhode Island housing corporation established pursuant to § 42-55-4 (the “corporation”) shall provide the annual reports pursuant to subsections (b) and (c) of this section to the speaker of the house, the president of the senate, the housing resources commission, the division of statewide planning, and the secretary of housing. Reports shall be made available on the corporation’s website for a period of at least three (3) years, and shall be deemed to be a public record. Reports shall be due on or before March 15, of each year, commencing in the calendar year 2023.
(b) Report on Rhode Island housing corporation housing development and preservation activity.
This report shall include the following information:
(1)
The identity of projects that have been provided funding by the corporation for housing development or preservation and that closed on that financing by December 31 of the previous calendar year;
(2)
The total aggregate of funds, in dollar amounts, that have been provided to projects by the corporation for housing development or preservation and that closed on that financing by December 31, of the previous calendar year, as well as those amounts disaggregated by each project; and
(3)
The number of housing units that received funding from the corporation for housing development or preservation that received a certificate of occupancy in the previous calendar year, both in total and disaggregated by project.
(c) Report on tax payments made by affordable housing developments to municipalities pursuant to § 44-5-13.11.
This report shall include data aggregated by all the municipalities and disaggregated by each individual municipality on the total amount of fees collected in the previous calendar year by municipalities on any assessment and taxation made pursuant to § 44-5-13.11.
(d)
With regard to the report in subsection (c) of this section, all municipalities in the state shall annually submit to the corporation by January 15, of each year, the total amount of fees collected in the previous calendar year by the municipality on any assessment and taxation made pursuant to § 44-5-13.11 disaggregated by individual development.
History of Section.
P.L. 2022, ch. 417, § 1, effective June 30, 2022; P.L. 2022, ch. 421, § 1, effective June 30, 2022.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-54 - Municipal Detention Facility Corporations › Section 45-54-1. - Corporations created.

§ 45-54-1. Corporations created.
(a)
For the purposes stated in this chapter there is incorporated in each city and town a body corporate and politic which shall be known as the municipal detention facility corporation of the municipality. The corporation is a public corporation, which is an instrumentality and agency of the municipality, but has a distinct legal existence from the municipality, and which has purposes that are consistent with the declaration of purpose set out in this chapter, and which has powers that are necessary and incidental to the effectuation of the stated purposes.
(b)
The corporation of any city or town shall not have the authority to transact any business or exercise any powers under this chapter until the city or town council shall by resolution declare that there is a need for the corporation to function in the city or town.
(c)
The corporation of each city or town shall cease to exist unless the city or town council passes the resolution specified in subsection (b) prior to December 31, 1991, the corporation of the municipality has entered into a contract for the operation of a detention facility with the United States Marshals’ Service prior to December 31, 1991, and the site of the detention facility has received all necessary zoning approvals by December 31, 1991.
History of Section.
P.L. 1991, ch. 421, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-54 - Municipal Detention Facility Corporations › Section 45-54-2. - Legislative findings.

§ 45-54-2. Legislative findings.
(a)
It has been widely reported that the United States has need for a detention facility to be located within the state of Rhode Island.
(b)
It is declared that a need for economic development projects exists within the state and that the development of a detention facility would help to meet the need for economic development and address the detention facility needs of the United States.
(c)
It is further declared that the most efficient and effective method to further the public policy of the state to encourage the development and construction of a detention facility and other authorized projects is to permit the establishment of public corporations in each of the cities and towns of the state with the power to acquire, construct, erect, maintain, operate, manage, and lease land, buildings, and improvements to be used for a detention facility and other authorized projects.
(d)
Any corporation created under this chapter is subject to the provisions of chapter 2 of title 38 and chapter 46 of title 42 and, in addition, the directors of the corporation are subject to the provisions of chapter 14 of title 36.
History of Section.
P.L. 1991, ch. 421, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-54 - Municipal Detention Facility Corporations › Section 45-54-4. - Resolution conclusive as to capacity of corporation.

§ 45-54-4. Resolution conclusive as to capacity of corporation.
In any suit, action, or proceeding involving the validity or enforcement of, or relating to, any contract by, or on behalf of, a corporation, the corporation is exclusively deemed to be established and authorized to transact business and exercise its powers upon proof of the adoption of a resolution by the city or town council declaring the need for the corporation to function.
History of Section.
P.L. 1991, ch. 421, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-54 - Municipal Detention Facility Corporations › Section 45-54-7. - Exemption from taxation.

§ 45-54-7. Exemption from taxation.
The exercise of the powers granted by this chapter will be in all respects for the benefit of the people of the state and for the facilitation of the conduct of their public business, and as the acquisition, construction, operation, and maintenance by the corporation of the projects defined in this chapter will constitute the performance of essential governmental functions, the corporation is not required to pay any taxes or assessments upon the projects or upon any property acquired, or upon the income from the projects, or any other state or local tax of any kind or description, nor is the corporation required to pay any recording fee or transfer tax of any kind or description, and the bonds, issued under the provisions of this chapter, their transfer, and the income from them (including any profit made on the sale) at all time free from taxation by the state, or any political subdivision or other instrumentality of the state, excepting estate taxes, and the corporation shall pay property taxes and assessments on its properties located outside the boundaries of the city or town whose council established the corporation.
History of Section.
P.L. 1991, ch. 421, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-54 - Municipal Detention Facility Corporations › Section 45-54-11. - Trust agreement.

§ 45-54-11. Trust agreement.
In the discretion of the corporation, any bonds issued under the provisions of this chapter may be secured by a trust agreement by and between the corporation and a corporate trustee, which may be any trust company or bank having the powers of a trust company within or without the state. The trust agreement or the resolution providing for the issuance of the bonds may pledge or assign the revenues to be received and may convey, or mortgage or grant, a security interest in any project or any part of it or any combination of projects or parts of them. The trust agreement or resolution providing for the issuance of the bonds may contain provisions for protecting and enforcing the rights and remedies of the bondholders or noteholders as may be reasonable and proper and not in violation of law, including: covenants establishing the duties of the corporation in relation to the acquisition of property and the construction, improvement, maintenance, repair, operation, and insurance of the project or projects in connection with which the bonds have been authorized, and in relation to the custody, safeguarding, and application of all moneys; and conditions or limitations with respect to the issuance of additional bonds. It is lawful for any bank or trust company incorporated under the laws of the state which may act as depository of the proceeds of bonds or of revenues to furnish indemnifying bonds or to pledge those securities that may be required by the corporation. Any trust agreement may establish the rights and remedies of the bondholders and of the trustee, and may restrict the individual right of action by bondholders. In addition to the preceding, any trust agreement or resolution may contain any other provisions that the corporation may deem reasonable and proper for the security of the bondholders. All expenses incurred in carrying out the provisions of the trust agreement or resolution may be treated as a part of the corporation’s cost of operation and maintenance.
History of Section.
P.L. 1991, ch. 421, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-54 - Municipal Detention Facility Corporations › Section 45-54-12. - Revenues.

§ 45-54-12. Revenues.
(a)
The corporation is authorized and empowered to fix, revise, and collect from time to time, subject to the provisions of this chapter, fees, rentals, and other charges for the use of projects of, or the services rendered by the corporation to pay:
(1)
The cost of maintaining, repairing, and operating the project or projects or portion or portions of them; and
(2)
The principal of, premium, if any, and interest on the bonds and notes as the bonds and notes become due and payable, and to create reserves for these purposes.
(b)
The fees, rentals, and other charges are not subject to supervision or regulation by any commission, board, bureau, or agency of the state or of any municipality or other political subdivision of the state.
(c)
The revenues derived from the project or projects or portion or portions of them, in connection with which the bonds or notes have been issued, may be pledged as provided in the resolution or the trust agreement. The pledge is valid and binding from the time when the pledge is made; the rentals, revenues, or other moneys so pledged and thereafter received by the corporation are immediately subject to the lien of the pledge without any physical delivery or further act, and the lien of any pledge is valid and binding against all parties having claims of any kind in tort, contract, or otherwise against the corporation, whether the parties have notice of claims. Neither the resolution nor any trust agreement by which a pledge is created need be filed or recorded except in the records of the corporation.
(d)
The use and disposition of revenues is subject to the provisions of the resolution authorizing the issuance of the bonds, or of the trust agreement.
History of Section.
P.L. 1991, ch. 421, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-54 - Municipal Detention Facility Corporations › Section 45-54-13. - Trust funds.

§ 45-54-13. Trust funds.
All moneys received pursuant to the provisions of this chapter, whether as proceeds from the sale of bonds or as revenues, are deemed to be trust funds, to be held and applied as may be provided in the resolution authorizing the issuance of the bonds or the trust agreement securing the bonds. The corporation shall, in the resolution authorizing the bonds or in the trust agreement securing the bonds, provide for the payment of the proceeds of the sale of the bonds and the revenues to be received to a trustee, which is any trust company or bank having the powers of a trust company within or without the state, which acts as trustee of the bonds, and holds and applies the funds to the purposes of this chapter, subject to regulations that this chapter and the resolution or trust agreement may provide.
History of Section.
P.L. 1991, ch. 421, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-54 - Municipal Detention Facility Corporations › Section 45-54-14. - Remedies.

§ 45-54-14. Remedies.
Any holder of bonds issued under the provisions of this chapter, or of any of the coupons appertaining to the bonds, and the trustee under the trust agreement or the resolution, except to the extent the rights given by this chapter may be restricted by the trust agreement or the resolution, may, by civil action, mandamus, or other proceeding, protect and enforce any and all rights under the laws of the state or granted under this chapter, or under the trust agreement or the resolution authorizing the issuance of the bonds, and may enforce and compel the performance of all duties required by this chapter or by the trust agreement or resolution to be performed by the corporation or by any officer of the corporation, including the fixing, charging, and collection of fees, rentals, and other charges.
History of Section.
P.L. 1991, ch. 421, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-54 - Municipal Detention Facility Corporations › Section 45-54-15. - Negotiable instruments.

§ 45-54-15. Negotiable instruments.
Notwithstanding any of the preceding provisions of this chapter or any recitals in any bonds issued under the provisions of this chapter, all bonds are deemed to be negotiable instruments under the laws of this state.
History of Section.
P.L. 1991, ch. 421, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-54 - Municipal Detention Facility Corporations › Section 45-54-16. - Refunding bonds.

§ 45-54-16. Refunding bonds.
The corporation is authorized to provide for the issuance of refunding bonds of the corporation for the purpose of refunding any bonds then outstanding which have been issued under the provisions of this chapter, including the payment of any redemption premium thereon or interest accrued or to accrue to the earliest or subsequent date of redemption, purchase, or maturity of the bonds and, if deemed advisable by the authority, for the additional purpose of paying all or part of the cost of acquiring, constructing, reconstructing, rehabilitating, or improving any project. The proceeds of bonds or notes issued for the purpose of refunding outstanding bonds or notes may be applied, in the discretion of the corporation, to the purchase, retirement at maturity, or redemption of the outstanding bonds or notes either on their earliest or a subsequent redemption date, and may, pending that application, be placed in escrow. Any escrowed proceeds may be invested and reinvested in obligations of or guaranteed by the United States of America, or in certificates of deposit, time deposits, or repurchase agreements fully secured or guaranteed by the state or the United States, or an instrumentality of either, maturing at the time or times appropriate to assure the prompt payment, as to principal, interest, and redemption premium, if any, of the outstanding bonds or notes to be so refunded. After the terms of the escrow have been fully satisfied and carried out, any balance of the proceeds, and interest, income, and profits, if any, earned or realized on the investments, may be returned to the corporation for use by it in furtherance of its purposes. The portion of the proceeds of bonds or notes issued for the additional purpose of paying all or part of the cost of acquiring, constructing, reconstructing, rehabilitating, developing, or improving any project may be invested and reinvested in obligations, securities, and other investments consistent herewith, that are specified in the resolutions under which the bonds are authorized, and which shall mature not later than the times when the proceeds will be needed for these purposes. The interest, income, and profits, if any, earned or realized on the investments may be applied to the payment of all parts of the costs, or may be used by the corporation in furtherance of its purposes. The issuance of the bonds, the maturities, and other details, the rights of the holders, and the rights, duties, and obligations of the corporation in respect to all of the above shall be governed by the provisions of this chapter insofar as the provisions may be applicable.
History of Section.
P.L. 1991, ch. 421, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-54 - Municipal Detention Facility Corporations › Section 45-54-17. - Credit of state and political subdivisions not pledged.

§ 45-54-17. Credit of state and political subdivisions not pledged.
(a)
Revenue bonds issued under the provisions of this chapter are not deemed to constitute a debt or a pledge of the faith and credit of the state or the municipality, but are payable solely from the funds provided from revenues. All revenue bonds shall contain on the face a statement to the effect that neither the state nor the municipality nor the corporation is obligated to pay the bonds or their interest except from the revenues of the project or projects on account of which the bonds are issued, and that neither the faith and credit nor the taxing power of the state or the municipality is pledged to the payment of the principal of or the interest on the bonds.
(b)
All expenses incurred in carrying out the provisions of this chapter are payable solely from the funds provided under the provisions of this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1991, ch. 421, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-54 - Municipal Detention Facility Corporations › Section 45-54-18. - Use of projects.

§ 45-54-18. Use of projects.
The use of the facilities of the corporation and the operation of its business are subject to the rules and regulations from time to time adopted by the corporation; provided, that the corporation is not authorized to do anything which will impair the security of the holders of the obligations of the corporation or violate any agreements with them or for their benefit.
History of Section.
P.L. 1991, ch. 421, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-54 - Municipal Detention Facility Corporations › Section 45-54-19. - Capital reserves.

§ 45-54-19. Capital reserves.
To assure the continued operation and solvency of the corporation for the carrying out of its corporate purposes, the corporation may create and establish one or more special funds ( referred to as “capital reserve funds” in this chapter), and may pay into each capital reserve fund:
(1)
Any monies appropriated and made available by the state for the purpose of the fund;
(2)
Proceeds from the sale of notes or bonds to the extent provided in the resolution or resolutions of the corporation authorizing their issuance; and
(3)
Any other moneys that may be made available to the corporation, for the purpose of the fund, from any other source.
History of Section.
P.L. 1991, ch. 421, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-54 - Municipal Detention Facility Corporations › Section 45-54-20. - Bonds eligible for investment.

§ 45-54-20. Bonds eligible for investment.
The notes and bonds of the corporation are securities in which all public officers and bodies of this state and all municipalities and municipal subdivisions, all insurance companies and associations, and other persons carrying on an insurance business, all banks, bankers, trust companies, savings banks, and saving associations, including savings and loan associations, building and loan associations, investment companies, and other persons carrying on a banking business, all administrators, guardians, executors, trustees, and other fiduciaries, and all other persons whatsoever who are now or may hereafter be authorized to invest in bonds or other obligations of the state, may properly and legally invest funds, including capital, in their control or belonging to them.
History of Section.
P.L. 1991, ch. 421, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-54 - Municipal Detention Facility Corporations › Section 45-54-21. - Limitation of powers.

§ 45-54-21. Limitation of powers.
The state pledges to and agrees with the holders of any bonds or notes issued by the corporation, that the state will not limit or alter the rights vested in the corporation to fulfill the terms of any agreements made with the holders until those bonds or notes, together with their interest, with interest on any unpaid installments of interest, and all costs and expenses in connection with any action or proceeding by or on behalf of the holders, are fully met and discharged. The corporation is authorized to include this pledge and agreement of the state in any agreement with the holders of the bonds or notes.
History of Section.
P.L. 1991, ch. 421, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-54 - Municipal Detention Facility Corporations › Section 45-54-22. - Annual report and audit.

§ 45-54-22. Annual report and audit.
Within one hundred twenty (120) days from the close of its fiscal year, the corporation shall make an annual report to the chief executive officer and legislative body of the municipality of its activities for the preceding fiscal year. Each report shall present a complete operating and financial statement covering its operations during the year. The corporation shall cause an annual audit of the books, records, and accounts of the corporation to be made and the costs shall be treated as a part of the cost of operation.
History of Section.
P.L. 1991, ch. 421, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-54 - Municipal Detention Facility Corporations › Section 45-54-23. - Transfers to governmental body.

§ 45-54-23. Transfers to governmental body.
When all bonds issued under the provisions of the chapter for each specific project and their interest have been paid, or a sufficient amount for the payment of all the bonds and their interest to the maturity of the bonds have been set aside in trust for the benefit of the bondholders, the specific project financed under the provisions of this chapter may be transferred to the municipality leasing the project on terms and conditions and for consideration that the corporation determines. If the corporation is dissolved, all funds of the corporation not required for the payment of bonds shall be paid to the treasurer of the municipality in which the corporation is established for the use of the municipality, and all property belonging to the corporation shall be vested in the municipality and delivered to it. No part of the net earnings of the authority shall be distributed to, or inure to the benefit of, any private person.
History of Section.
P.L. 1991, ch. 421, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-54 - Municipal Detention Facility Corporations › Section 45-54-24. - Applicability of other laws.

§ 45-54-24. Applicability of other laws.
This chapter shall be construed to provide a complete additional and alternative method for doing the things authorized hereby and shall be regarded as supplemental and in addition to the powers conferred by other laws. The issuance of all bonds, notes, and other obligations of the corporation under the provisions of this chapter need not comply with the requirements of any other provision of any charter or other law, general, special or local, or of any rule or regulation of the state or the municipality applicable to the issuance of bonds. No proceedings or notice or approval are required for the issuance of any bonds, or any instrument of security for them, except as provided in this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1991, ch. 421, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-54 - Municipal Detention Facility Corporations › Section 45-54-25. - Liberal construction.

§ 45-54-25. Liberal construction.
This chapter, being necessary for the welfare of the state and its inhabitants, shall be liberally construed to effectuate its purposes.
History of Section.
P.L. 1991, ch. 421, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-54 - Municipal Detention Facility Corporations › Section 45-54-26. - Inconsistent provisions.

§ 45-54-26. Inconsistent provisions.
Insofar as the provisions of this chapter are inconsistent with the provisions of any charter or other law or ordinance, general, special, or local, or of any rule or regulation of the state or any municipality, the provisions of this chapter are controlling.
History of Section.
P.L. 1991, ch. 421, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-54 - Municipal Detention Facility Corporations › Section 45-54-27. - Severability.

§ 45-54-27. Severability.
If any one or more sections, clauses, sentences, or parts of this chapter shall, for any reason, be adjudged unconstitutional or otherwise invalid in any court, that judgment shall not affect, impair, or invalidate the remaining provisions, but shall be confined in its operation to the specific provisions so held unconstitutional or invalid; and the inapplicability or invalidity of any section, clause, or provision of this chapter in any one or more instances or circumstances shall not be taken to affect or prejudice in any way its applicability or validity in any other instance.
History of Section.
P.L. 1991, ch. 421, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-54 - Municipal Detention Facility Corporations › Section 45-54-28. - Construction.

§ 45-54-28. Construction.
Whenever the context permits in this chapter, the use of the plural includes the singular and the plural, and the use of any gender is deemed to include all genders.
History of Section.
P.L. 1991, ch. 421, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-55 - Award of Municipal Contracts › Section 45-55-1. - Legislative findings.

§ 45-55-1. Legislative findings.
It is declared that a need exists to establish a uniform system for the award of contracts by municipalities, utilizing open cooperative bids.
History of Section.
P.L. 1992, ch. 394, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-55 - Award of Municipal Contracts › Section 45-55-2. - Method of source selection.

§ 45-55-2. Method of source selection.
Except as otherwise authorized by law, all municipal contracts shall be awarded by:
(1)
Competitive sealed bidding, pursuant to § 45-55-5;
(2)
Competitive negotiations, pursuant to § 45-55-6;
(3)
Non-competitive negotiations, pursuant to §§ 45-55-7 and 45-55-8;
(4)
Small purchase procedures, pursuant to § 45-55-9; and
(5)
Qualification-based selection (QBS) process for architects/engineers pursuant to § 45-55-8.1, and program managers, construction managers, or construction managers at risk pursuant to § 45-55-8.2.
History of Section.
P.L. 1992, ch. 394, § 1; P.L. 1998, ch. 276, § 1; P.L. 2017, ch. 219, § 1; P.L. 2017, ch. 323, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-55 - Award of Municipal Contracts › Section 45-55-3. - Purchasing agent — Appointment — Duties.

§ 45-55-3. Purchasing agent — Appointment — Duties.
Within each city or town or quasi public agency there shall be designated a person or persons to act as purchasing officer to exercise the powers and duties as established in this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1992, ch. 394, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-55 - Award of Municipal Contracts › Section 45-55-5. - Competitive sealed bidding.

§ 45-55-5. Competitive sealed bidding.
(a)
Contracts exceeding the amount provided by § 45-55-9 shall be awarded by competitive bidding unless they are professional engineering/architectural services pursuant to § 45-55-8.1 and it is determined in writing that this method is not practicable. Factors to be considered in determining whether competitive sealed bidding is practicable shall include whether:
(1)
Specifications can be prepared that permit award on the basis of either the lowest qualified bid price or the lowest qualified evaluated bid price; and
(2)
The available sources, the time and place of performance, and other relevant circumstances as are appropriate for the use of competitive sealed bidding.
(b)
The invitation for bids shall state whether award shall be made on the basis of the lowest bid price or the lowest evaluated or responsive bid price. If the latter basis is used, the objective measurable criteria to be utilized shall be stated in the invitation for bids, if available.
(c)
Adequate public notice of the invitation for bids shall be given a sufficient time prior to the date stated in the notice for the opening of bids. Notice may include publication in a newspaper of general circulation in the state as determined by the purchasing officer for the municipality not less than seven (7) days nor more than twenty-one (21) days before the date set for opening of the bids. The purchasing officer may make a written determination that the twenty-one (21) day limitation needs to be waived. The written determination shall state the reason why the twenty-one (21) day limitation is being waived and shall state the number of days, giving a minimum and maximum, before the date set for the opening of bids when public notice is to be given.
(d)
Bids shall be opened publicly in full view of the public at the time and place designated in the invitation for bids. Each bid, together with the name of the bidder, shall be recorded and an abstract made available for public inspection. Subsequent to the awarding of the bid, all documents pertinent to the awarding of the bid shall be made available and open to public inspection and retained in the bid file.
(e)
The contract shall be awarded with reasonable promptness by written notice to the responsive and responsible bidder whose bid is either the lowest bid price, or lowest evaluated or responsive bid price.
(f)
Correction or withdrawal of bids may be allowed only to the extent permitted by regulations issued by the purchasing officer.
History of Section.
P.L. 1992, ch. 394, § 1; P.L. 1998, ch. 276, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-55 - Award of Municipal Contracts › Section 45-55-5.1. - Business exempt.

§ 45-55-5.1. Business exempt.
The North Kingstown Bus Contractors Association and the Scituate School Bus Owners Club are exempt from the provisions of this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1992, ch. 394, § 1; P.L. 1993, ch. 33, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-55 - Award of Municipal Contracts › Section 45-55-5.2. - Town of North Smithfield — Exemption.

§ 45-55-5.2. Town of North Smithfield — Exemption.
The town of North Smithfield is exempt from the provisions of this chapter with regard to the contracting for fire and rescue services with the Primrose Volunteer Fire Department and/or North Smithfield Fire Department and/or their respective successors and assigns.
History of Section.
P.L. 1993, ch. 472, § 1; P.L. 2001, ch. 31, § 1; P.L. 2001, ch. 329, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-55 - Award of Municipal Contracts › Section 45-55-6. - Competitive negotiation.

§ 45-55-6. Competitive negotiation.
(a)
When, under regulations adopted by the city or town council, the purchasing agent determines, in writing, that the use of competitive sealed bidding is not practicable, and except as provided in §§ 45-55-8, 45-55-9, and 45-55-10 a contract may be awarded by competitive negotiation.
(b)
Adequate public notice of the request for proposals shall be given in the same manner as provided in § 45-55-5(c).
(c)
Contracts may be competitively negotiated when it is determined, in writing, by the purchasing agent that the bid prices received by competitive sealed bidding either are unreasonable as to all or part of the requirements, or were not independently reached in open competition, and for which:
(1)
Each competitive bidder has been notified of the intention to negotiate and is given reasonable opportunity to negotiate; and
(2)
The negotiated price is lower than the lowest rejected bid by any competitive bidder; and
(3)
The negotiated price is the lowest negotiated price offered by a competitive offeror.
(d)
The request for proposals shall indicate the relative importance of price and other evaluation factors.
(e)
Award shall be made to the responsible offeror whose proposal is determined, in writing, to be the most advantageous to the municipality taking into consideration price and the evaluation factors stated in the request for proposals.
(f)
Written or oral discussions shall be conducted with all responsible offerors who submit proposals determined, in writing, to be reasonably susceptible of being selected for award. Discussions shall not disclose any information derived from proposals submitted by competing offerors. Discussions need not be conducted:
(1)
With respect to prices, where prices are fixed by law or regulation, except that consideration shall be given to competitive terms and conditions; or
(2)
Where time of delivery or performance will not permit discussions; or
(3)
Where it can be clearly demonstrated and documented from the existence of adequate competition or accurate prior cost experience with the particular supply, service, or construction item, that acceptance of an initial offer without discussion would result in fair and reasonable prices, and the request for proposals notifies all offerors of the possibility that award may be made on the basis of the initial offers.
History of Section.
P.L. 1992, ch. 394, § 1; P.L. 1998, ch. 276, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-55 - Award of Municipal Contracts › Section 45-55-7. - Negotiations after unsuccessful competitive sealed bidding.

§ 45-55-7. Negotiations after unsuccessful competitive sealed bidding.
(a)
In the event that all bids submitted pursuant to competitive sealed bidding under § 45-55-5 result in bid prices in excess of the funds available for the purchase, and the purchasing officer determines in writing:
(1)
That there are no additional funds available from any source to permit an award to the lowest responsive and responsible bidder; and
(2)
The best interest of the municipality will not permit the delay attendant to a resolicitation under revised specifications, or for revised quantities, under competitive sealed bidding as provided in § 45-55-5, then a negotiated award may be made as stated in subsections (b) or (c) of this section.
(b)
Where there is more than one bidder, competitive negotiations pursuant to § 45-55-6, shall be conducted with the three (3) (two (2) if there are only two (2)) bidders determined, in writing, to be the lowest responsive and responsible bidders to the competitive sealed bid invitation. Competitive negotiations shall be conducted under the following restrictions:
(1)
If discussions pertaining to the revision of the specifications or quantities are held with any potential offeror, all other potential offerors shall be afforded an opportunity to take part in the discussions; or
(2)
A request for proposals, based upon revised specifications or quantities, shall be issued as promptly as possible, shall provide for an expeditious response to the revised requirements, and shall be awarded upon the basis of the lowest bid price, or lowest evaluated bid price submitted by any responsive and responsible offeror.
(c)
When after competitive sealed bidding, it is determined, in writing, that there is only one responsive and responsible bidder, a noncompetitive negotiated award may be made with that bidder in accordance with § 45-55-8.
History of Section.
P.L. 1992, ch. 394, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-55 - Award of Municipal Contracts › Section 45-55-8. - Sole source procurement and emergency procurements.

§ 45-55-8. Sole source procurement and emergency procurements.
(a)
A contract may be awarded for a supply, service, or construction item without competition when, under published regulations, the purchasing officer determines, in writing, that there is only one source for the required supply, service, or construction item.
(b)
Notwithstanding any other provision of this chapter, the purchasing agent may make or authorize others to make emergency procurements when there exists a threat to public health, welfare, or safety under emergency conditions as defined in regulations or where the procurement will be in the best interest of the city as established by properly promulgated rules and regulations; provided, that emergency procurements shall be made with as much competition as is practicable under the circumstances. A written determination of the basis for the emergency, and for the selection of the particular contractor, shall be included in the contract file.
History of Section.
P.L. 1992, ch. 394, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-55 - Award of Municipal Contracts › Section 45-55-8.1. - Qualification-based selection of architects and engineers.

§ 45-55-8.1. Qualification-based selection of architects and engineers.
(a)
When the purchasing agent determines that the city or town needs the services of a professional architect or engineer, the purchasing agent shall follow the qualification-based selection process for the procurement of architectural and engineering consulting services.
(b) Federal requirements.
In the procurement of architectural, engineering, and consulting services and in the awarding of contracts, the city or town shall comply with federal law and regulations including, but not limited to, Pub. L. No. 92-582 (Federal Architect-Engineer Selection Law, Brooks Law, 40 U.S.C. § 541) and take all necessary steps to adapt its rules, specifications, policies, and procedures accordingly to remain eligible for federal aid.
(c) Prequalification.
Cities and towns may establish procedures to prequalify firms seeking to provide architectural, engineering, and consultant services or may use prequalification lists from other state agencies to meet the requirements of this section.
(d)
No city or town, prior to selecting a firm for negotiation during procurement under this section, shall seek formal or informal submission of verbal or written estimates of costs or proposals in terms of dollars, hours required, percentage of construction cost, or any other measure of compensation.
History of Section.
P.L. 1998, ch. 276, § 2; P.L. 2017, ch. 284, § 1; P.L. 2017, ch. 362, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-55 - Award of Municipal Contracts › Section 45-55-8.2. - Qualification-based selection of program managers, construction managers, or construction managers at risk.

§ 45-55-8.2. Qualification-based selection of program managers, construction managers, or construction managers at risk.
When the purchasing agent determines that the city or town needs the services of a program manager, construction manager, or construction manager at risk, the purchasing agent shall follow the regulations, as defined in § 45-55-4(16), for qualification-based selection for the procurement of such services.
History of Section.
P.L. 2017, ch. 219, § 2; P.L. 2017, ch. 323, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-55 - Award of Municipal Contracts › Section 45-55-9. - Small purchases.

§ 45-55-9. Small purchases.
Procurements, not to exceed an aggregate amount of ten thousand dollars ($10,000) for construction and five thousand dollars ($5,000) for all other purchases may be made in accordance with small purchase regulations promulgated by the municipality. These amounts shall be increased or decreased annually hereafter at the same rate as the Boston Regional Consumer Price Index. Procurement requirements shall not be artificially divided so as to constitute a small purchase under this section. A municipality may further reduce the aggregate purchase amount, as provided for in this section by ordinance.
History of Section.
P.L. 1992, ch. 394, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-55 - Award of Municipal Contracts › Section 45-55-10. - Cancellation of invitation for bids and requests for proposals.

§ 45-55-10. Cancellation of invitation for bids and requests for proposals.
An invitation for bids, a request for proposals, or other solicitation may be cancelled, or all bids or proposals rejected, if it is determined, in writing, that action if taken is not in the best interest of the municipality and approved by the chief purchasing officer.
History of Section.
P.L. 1992, ch. 394, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-55 - Award of Municipal Contracts › Section 45-55-11. - Responsibilities of bidders and offerors.

§ 45-55-11. Responsibilities of bidders and offerors.
(a)
A written determination of responsibility of a bidder or offeror shall be made in accordance with regulations issued by the municipality.
(b)
A reasonable inquiry to determine the responsibility of a bidder or offeror may be conducted. The failure of a bidder or offeror to promptly supply information in connection with a reasonable inquiry may be grounds for a determination of nonresponsibility with respect to a bidder or offeror.
(c)
Except as otherwise provided, by law, information furnished by a bidder or offeror pursuant to this section may not be disclosed outside of the purchasing department administering the contract without prior written consent of the bidder or offeror.
History of Section.
P.L. 1992, ch. 394, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-55 - Award of Municipal Contracts › Section 45-55-12. - Prequalification of contractors — General.

§ 45-55-12. Prequalification of contractors — General.
The municipality may provide for prequalification of suppliers as responsible prospective contractors for particular types of supplies, services, and construction. Municipalities which choose to provide for prequalification of suppliers shall adopt regulations for prequalification in the same manner provided for in the adoption of ordinances in the manner provided for in the legislative or home rule charter of the municipality. Solicitation mailing lists of potential contractors of supplies, services, and construction shall include, but need not be limited to, prequalified contractors. Prequalification shall not foreclose a written determination:
(1)
Between the time of the bid opening or receipt of offers and the making of an award, that a prequalified supplier is not responsible; or
(2)
That a supplier who is not prequalified at the time of bid opening or receipt of offers is responsible.
History of Section.
P.L. 1992, ch. 394, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-55 - Award of Municipal Contracts › Section 45-55-13. - Exclusion of state mandated costs.

§ 45-55-13. Exclusion of state mandated costs.
The provisions of §§ 45-13-7 through 45-13-10 do not apply to this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1992, ch. 394, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-55 - Award of Municipal Contracts › Section 45-55-13.1. - Exclusion of multi-cities or towns insurance corporations and cooperative risk management programs.

§ 45-55-13.1. Exclusion of multi-cities or towns insurance corporations and cooperative risk management programs.
The provisions of this chapter do not apply to entities organized pursuant to § 45-5-20.1. Those entities are exempt from all of the provisions of this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1995, ch. 273, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-55 - Award of Municipal Contracts › Section 45-55-13.2. - Exclusion of multi-cities or towns energy aggregation programs.

§ 45-55-13.2. Exclusion of multi-cities or towns energy aggregation programs.
The provisions of this chapter do not apply to entities organized for the purpose of negotiating the purchase of electric power pursuant to § 39-3-1.1, or energy or energy related services. Those entities are exempt from all provisions of this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1998, ch. 19, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-55 - Award of Municipal Contracts › Section 45-55-13.3. - Exclusion of multi-school district combined purchasing consortia.

§ 45-55-13.3. Exclusion of multi-school district combined purchasing consortia.
The provisions of this chapter do not apply to purchases and contracts entered into by those consortia established pursuant to § 16-2-9.2, and such entities shall be exempt from all provisions of this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 2004, ch. 349, § 2; P.L. 2004, ch. 355, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-55 - Award of Municipal Contracts › Section 45-55-14. - Staff consultants.

§ 45-55-14. Staff consultants.
The procurement of the service of an attorney, physician or dentist by a municipality, is exempt from the provisions of this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1992, ch. 394, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-55 - Award of Municipal Contracts › Section 45-55-15. - Severability.

§ 45-55-15. Severability.
If any one or more sections, clauses, sentences or parts of this chapter are for any reason adjudged unconstitutional or otherwise invalid in any court, that judgment shall not affect, impair or invalidate the remaining provisions of this chapter but shall be confined in its operation to the specific provisions so held unconstitutional or invalid and the inapplicability or invalidity of any section, clause or provisions of this chapter in any one or more instances or circumstances shall not be taken to affect or prejudice in any way its applicability or validity in any other instance.
History of Section.
P.L. 1992, ch. 394, § 1.