reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-14.1 - Public Motor Vehicles › Section 39-14.1-6. - Operations of public motor vehicles.

§ 39-14.1-6. Operations of public motor vehicles.
No public motor vehicle shall be operated from any taxicab stand on any public highway; nor shall the operator of it transport any passenger for hire unless the transportation is requested by the passenger at an office of the owner of the vehicle, either personally or by telephone and/or other electronic means. When solicited by a prospective customer, the certificate holder or its representative shall quote what the actual charge for the requested transportation service will be prior to picking up the passenger(s).
The division shall establish and set a minimum allowable charge for public motor vehicle services. The minimum allowable charge provisions of this section shall not apply to public motor vehicle service coordinated by, or paid for by, a state department, authority, or agency on behalf of clients of the state department, authority, or agency; provided, however, that the state department, authority, or agency requests the service no later than the day before the service is to be rendered. This exemption shall also apply in cases where the state has contracted with a private company to coordinate the scheduling and provision of such transportation services, provided the funding for such transportation services comes exclusively through a program funded by the federal government and/or the state of Rhode Island.
History of Section.
P.L. 2002, ch. 182, § 1; P.L. 2012, ch. 312, § 1; P.L. 2012, ch. 334, § 1; P.L. 2015, ch. 216, § 1; P.L. 2015, ch. 233, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-14.1 - Public Motor Vehicles › Section 39-14.1-7. - Proof of financial responsibility.

§ 39-14.1-7. Proof of financial responsibility.
The owner of any public motor vehicle, operating under this section, shall file with the division of public utilities and carriers a certificate of insurance issued by an insurance company authorized to transact business in this state, showing that the owner has a policy insuring the public motor vehicle company against liability for injury to persons and damage to property that may be caused by the operation of the public motor vehicle, this policy to provide for the indemnity in the sum of not less than one million five hundred thousand dollars ($1,500,000) for personal injury and indemnity of not less than one hundred thousand dollars ($100,000) for damage to property.
History of Section.
P.L. 2002, ch. 182, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-14.1 - Public Motor Vehicles › Section 39-14.1-8. - Licensing of operators.

§ 39-14.1-8. Licensing of operators.
No person shall operate a public motor vehicle upon the public highways until the person shall have first obtained an operator’s license as provided for in chapter 10 of title 31. Further, no person shall operate a public motor vehicle upon the highways until the person shall have first obtained a special license from the division of public utilities and carriers under any rules and regulations that the division of public utilities and carriers shall require.
History of Section.
P.L. 2002, ch. 182, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-14.1 - Public Motor Vehicles › Section 39-14.1-9. - Penalty for violations.

§ 39-14.1-9. Penalty for violations.
(a)
Any person, firm, or corporation, subject to the provisions of this chapter and/or any rules and regulations promulgated under it, who shall knowingly or willfully cause to be done any act prohibited by this chapter, or who shall be guilty of any violation of this chapter or the rules and regulations shall be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor and shall, upon conviction, be subject to a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000) or imprisonment for a term not exceeding one year, or both for each offense.
(b)
The administrator may, in his or her discretion, in lieu of seeking criminal sanctions, and/or in lieu of revoking or suspending the carrier’s operating authority as conferred under this chapter, impose upon its regulated common carriers an administrative civil penalty (fine). This fine shall not exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000) per each violation of the sections contained in this chapter or the division’s rules and regulations promulgated under it.
History of Section.
P.L. 2002, ch. 182, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-14.1 - Public Motor Vehicles › Section 39-14.1-10. - Certification of business previously established.

§ 39-14.1-10. Certification of business previously established.
The business of operating any public motor vehicle not subject to regulation shall now be subject to the provisions of this chapter. However, businesses that have been providing continuous transportation services akin to the public motor vehicle services defined and described in this chapter since January 1, 2002, shall have ninety (90) days from the passage of this legislation to file a relevant application with the division. These businesses may continue to operate without a certificate during the ninety-day (90) period mentioned above and through the period of time required by the division to issue a final decision on the application.
History of Section.
P.L. 2002, ch. 182, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-14.2 - Transportation Network Company Services › Section 39-14.2-2. - Not other carriers.

§ 39-14.2-2. Not other carriers.
(a)
TNCs or TNC drivers are not common carriers, as defined in this title; jitneys, as defined in § 39-13-1; taxicabs or limited public motor vehicles, as defined in § 39-14-1; or public motor vehicles, as defined in § 39-14.1-1.
(b)
A TNC driver shall not be required to register the vehicle the driver uses for prearranged rides as a commercial or for-hire vehicle.
History of Section.
P.L. 2016, ch. 346, § 1; P.L. 2016, ch. 367, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-14.2 - Transportation Network Company Services › Section 39-14.2-3. - Powers of division.

§ 39-14.2-3. Powers of division.
(a)
Every person operating a licensed transportation network company or operating as a licensed transportation network company operator is declared to be subject to the jurisdiction of the division of public utilities and carriers. The division may prescribe rules and regulations consistent with this chapter that are necessary to ensure adequate, safe, and compliant service under this chapter. The division is further authorized to conduct investigations into complaints; conduct investigations initiated on its own; and to hold hearings as it deems necessary to fulfill the proper administration of this chapter.
(b)
The division shall require transportation network companies to establish and implement a written policy capping dynamic pricing during disasters and relevant states of emergency and make this policy available on its website or application.
History of Section.
P.L. 2016, ch. 346, § 1; P.L. 2016, ch. 367, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-14.2 - Transportation Network Company Services › Section 39-14.2-4. - Audit procedures.

§ 39-14.2-4. Audit procedures.
(a)
For the sole purpose of verifying that a TNC is in compliance with the requirements of this chapter and no more often than annually, the division shall have the right to visually inspect a sample of records that the TNC is required to maintain. The sample shall be chosen randomly by the division in a manner agreeable to both parties. The audit shall take place at a mutually agreed upon location in Rhode Island. Any record furnished to the division may exclude information that would tend to identify specific drivers or riders.
(b)
In addition to the provisions of subsection (a), in response to a specific complaint against any TNC driver, or upon reasonable suspicion that a violation of this chapter has occurred, the division is authorized to inspect records held by the TNC that are necessary to investigate and resolve the complaint. Any record furnished to the division may exclude information that would tend to identify specific drivers or riders, unless the identity of a driver or rider is relevant to the complaint.
(c)
Any records inspected by the division under this chapter shall be held confidential by the division and are not subject to disclosure to a third party by the division without prior written consent of the TNC, and are exempt from disclosure under the Rhode Island Access to Public Records Act, chapter 2 of title 38. Nothing in this section shall be construed as limiting the applicability of any other exemptions under the Rhode Island Access to Public Records Act, chapter 2 of title 38.
History of Section.
P.L. 2016, ch. 346, § 1; P.L. 2016, ch. 367, § 1; P.L. 2020, ch. 79, art. 1, § 8.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-14.2 - Transportation Network Company Services › Section 39-14.2-6. - Transportation network services administration reserve account — Recovery of administrative and enforcement expenses.

§ 39-14.2-6. Transportation network services administration reserve account — Recovery of administrative and enforcement expenses.
There is hereby created a fund to be known as the transportation network services administration reserve account, a restricted-use account within the division of public utilities and carriers. The account, hereinafter referred to as the “fund,” shall be used for the purpose of providing the financial means for the division to fulfill its regulatory oversight of this chapter; enforcing relevant sections of this chapter; and any other administrative expense deemed necessary by the administrator.
History of Section.
P.L. 2016, ch. 346, § 1; P.L. 2016, ch. 367, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-14.2 - Transportation Network Company Services › Section 39-14.2-7. - Transportation network company operators or TNC operators, TNC drivers.

§ 39-14.2-7. Transportation network company operators or TNC operators, TNC drivers.
(a)
No individual shall provide TNC services or transport TNC riders in a personal vehicle until the individual shall have first submitted to required, periodic background checks conducted through the TNC in accordance with subsection (b).
(b)
Prior to permitting an individual to accept trip requests through its digital network, a TNC shall:
(1)
Require the individual to submit an application to the TNC. The application shall include the individual’s name; address; age; driver’s license number; photocopy or electronic copy of the driver’s license; motor-vehicle registration for the personal vehicle that the individual intends to use to provide prearranged rides; automobile liability insurance; and other information as may be required by the TNC;
(2)
Conduct, or have a third party accredited by the National Association of Professional Background Screeners conduct, a local and national criminal background check for each applicant that shall include:
(i)
A multistate/multi-jurisdictional criminal records locator or other similar commercial nationwide database with validation (primary source search); and
(ii)
The Dru Sjodin National Sex Offender Public Website; and
(3)
Obtain and review, or have a third party obtain and review, a driving history research report for such driving applicant.
(c)
The TNC shall certify that the required background checks verify that the applicant meets the following criteria:
(1)
Has not had more than three (3) moving violations in the prior three-year (3) period, or one of the following major violations in the prior three-year (3) period:
(i)
Attempting to evade the police;
(ii)
Reckless driving;
(iii)
Driving on a suspended license; or
(iv)
Revoked license.
(2)
Has not, in the past seven (7) years, been convicted of or pleaded nolo contendere to any of the following:
(i)
Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol;
(ii)
Felony fraud;
(iii)
Sexual offenses;
(iv)
Use of a motor vehicle to commit a felony;
(v)
Felony crimes involving property damage and/or theft; or
(vi)
Acts of violence or felony acts of terror;
(3)
Is not a match in the Dru Sjodin National Sex Offender Public Website;
(4)
Possesses a valid driver’s license;
(5)
Possesses proof of registration for the motor vehicle to be used to provide prearranged rides or TNC services;
(6)
Possesses proof of automobile liability insurance, that satisfies the financial-responsibility requirement for a motor vehicle under § 31-47-2(13)(i)(A), for the motor vehicle(s) to be used to provide prearranged rides or TNC services; and
(7)
Is at least nineteen (19) years of age.
(d)
TNC operators may be affiliated with or may “partner” with more than one properly permitted transportation network company to provide TNC services.
History of Section.
P.L. 2016, ch. 346, § 1; P.L. 2016, ch. 367, § 1; P.L. 2020, ch. 79, art. 1, § 8.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-14.2 - Transportation Network Company Services › Section 39-14.2-8. - Solicitation and acceptance of TNC service requests.

§ 39-14.2-8. Solicitation and acceptance of TNC service requests.
TNC operators shall be strictly prohibited from soliciting or accepting so-called “street hails.”
History of Section.
P.L. 2016, ch. 346, § 1; P.L. 2016, ch. 367, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-14.2 - Transportation Network Company Services › Section 39-14.2-9. - Vehicles to be utilized to provide TNC services.

§ 39-14.2-9. Vehicles to be utilized to provide TNC services.
TNC operators may utilize a personal vehicle to provide licensed TNC services, provided:
(1)
The vehicle is owned by, leased to, or otherwise authorized by the legal owner/lessee to be used by a TNC operator to provide TNC services: and
(2)
The vehicle is no older than fifteen (15) model years old and is designed to hold no more than seven (7) individuals, including the driver; and
(3)
The vehicle meets the vehicle-safety inspection requirements for a private motor vehicle in Rhode Island, or the state in which the vehicle is registered, performed by a facility licensed by the state to conduct such inspections, and shall display an according inspection sticker on the vehicle’s windshield if required to do so by applicable law; and
(4)
The vehicle shall have met or surpassed sanitary/acceptability standards established by the TNC with which the TNC operator has “partnered”; and
(5)
It shall be prohibited for a TNC operator to connect to a TNC’s digital network for the purpose of accepting solicitations and providing TNC services in a personal vehicle other than a personal vehicle that the TNC operator has registered with the TNC pursuant to § 39-14.2-11.
History of Section.
P.L. 2016, ch. 346, § 1; P.L. 2016, ch. 367, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-14.2 - Transportation Network Company Services › Section 39-14.2-10. - Electronic identification of TNC vehicles and drivers by TNC.

§ 39-14.2-10. Electronic identification of TNC vehicles and drivers by TNC.
The TNC’s digital network shall display to passengers requesting TNC services a picture of the TNC driver and the license plate number of the vehicle to be used to provide the requested services before the passenger enters the TNC operator’s vehicle.
History of Section.
P.L. 2016, ch. 346, § 1; P.L. 2016, ch. 367, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-14.2 - Transportation Network Company Services › Section 39-14.2-11. - Transportation network affiliation placards required.

§ 39-14.2-11. Transportation network affiliation placards required.
(a)
No personal vehicle shall be utilized to provide TNC services until the TNC operator intending to utilize a personal vehicle to provide such TNC services has first registered the vehicle with the TNC and the owner has been issued by the TNC a transportation network affiliation placard.
(b)
TNC operators shall be required to display the transportation network affiliation placard in a conspicuous place on the personal vehicle at all times when connected to a TNC’s digital network.
History of Section.
P.L. 2016, ch. 346, § 1; P.L. 2016, ch. 367, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-14.2 - Transportation Network Company Services › Section 39-14.2-12. - Fare charged for TNC services provided.

§ 39-14.2-12. Fare charged for TNC services provided.
(a)
On behalf of a TNC operator, a TNC may charge a fare for the transportation services provided to the passengers; provided that, if a fare is charged, the TNC shall disclose to the riders the fare or fare calculation method on its website or within the digital network.
(b)
The TNC shall provide the potential rider with the option to receive a reasonably accurate estimate of the expected total fare before the passenger enters the TNC operator’s personal vehicle.
(c)
Fares for TNC services shall not be paid in cash. Any payment for TNC services shall be made only electronically using the TNC’s digital network or other application.
History of Section.
P.L. 2016, ch. 346, § 1; P.L. 2016, ch. 367, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-14.2 - Transportation Network Company Services › Section 39-14.2-13. - Rights of TNC riders.

§ 39-14.2-13. Rights of TNC riders.
(a)
Within a reasonable period of time following the completion of a TNC service trip, a TNC shall transmit an electronic receipt to the rider that lists:
(1)
The origin and destination of the trip;
(2)
The total time and distance of the trip; and
(3)
An itemization of the total fare paid, including any additional surcharges.
(b)
A TNC shall be prohibited from disclosing a TNC rider’s personally identifiable information to a third party, unless:
(1)
Disclosure is pursuant to the publicly disclosed terms of the TNC’s privacy policy or another consent mechanism to which the rider consents;
(2)
Disclosure is required by a legal obligation; or
(3)
Disclosure is required to protect or defend the terms of use of the service or to investigate violations of those terms. In addition to the foregoing, a TNC shall be permitted to share a rider’s name and/or telephone number with the TNC operator providing prearranged rides or TNC services to such passenger in order to facilitate correct identification of the rider by the TNC operator or to facilitate communication between those two (2) parties.
(c)
A TNC rider shall be afforded all of the anti-discrimination protections provided in § 39-14.2-21.
History of Section.
P.L. 2016, ch. 346, § 1; P.L. 2016, ch. 367, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-14.2 - Transportation Network Company Services › Section 39-14.2-16. - Limitations on TNCs.

§ 39-14.2-16. Limitations on TNCs.
TNC drivers shall be independent contractors and not employees of the TNC if they are determined to meet federal and state law and regulation relating to independent contractors, including, but not limited to, 26 U.S.C. § 3401(a), 26 U.S.C. § 3402(a)(1), §§ 28-29-17.1 and 28-42-7, and the TNC and TNC driver agree in writing that the TNC driver is an independent contractor of the TNC.
History of Section.
P.L. 2016, ch. 346, § 1; P.L. 2016, ch. 367, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-14.2 - Transportation Network Company Services › Section 39-14.2-17. - Alcohol/drug use strictly prohibited.

§ 39-14.2-17. Alcohol/drug use strictly prohibited.
(a)
The TNC shall implement a zero-tolerance policy regarding a TNC driver’s activities while accessing the TNC’s digital network. The zero-tolerance policy shall address the use of drugs or alcohol while a TNC driver is providing prearranged rides or is logged into the TNC’s digital network but is not providing prearranged rides, and the TNC shall provide notice of this policy on its website or mobile application, as well as procedures to report a complaint about a TNC driver with whom a rider was matched and whom the rider reasonably suspects was under the influence of drugs or alcohol during the course of the trip.
(b)
TNCs shall provide notice on their website or digital network how a rider may report a complaint about a TNC operator who the passenger reasonably suspects was under the influence of drugs or alcohol during the course of a recently completed prearranged trip.
(c)
Upon receipt of such a rider complaint alleging a violation of the zero tolerance policy, the TNC shall suspend such TNC operator’s access to the digital network as soon as possible and shall conduct an investigation into the reported incident. The suspension of access shall last until the investigation is complete. The TNC shall maintain records relevant to the enforcement of this requirement for a period of at least two (2) years from the date that a rider complaint is received by the TNC.
History of Section.
P.L. 2016, ch. 346, § 1; P.L. 2016, ch. 367, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-14.2 - Transportation Network Company Services › Section 39-14.2-18. - Controlling authority.

§ 39-14.2-18. Controlling authority.
All provisions of this chapter, with the exception of § 39-14.2-14, are hereby declared to be the sole jurisdiction of the division; § 39-14.2-14 is hereby declared to be the sole jurisdiction of the division and the department of business regulation. Cities, towns, and other local entities in the state are expressly prohibited from:
(1)
Establishing any licensing or registration requirement or imposing any charge, fee, or tax on transportation network companies, transportation network company operators, or personal vehicles;
(2)
Requiring a TNC driver to obtain a business license or any other type of similar authorization to operate within the jurisdiction; or
(3)
Subjecting transportation network companies to the city, town, or local entity’s rate, entry, operation, or other requirements; provided, however, that cities and towns may continue to impose excise taxes upon the legal owners of vehicles used to provide TNC services in a manner consistent with previous such taxation of private motor vehicles.
History of Section.
P.L. 2016, ch. 346, § 1; P.L. 2016, ch. 367, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-14.2 - Transportation Network Company Services › Section 39-14.2-19. - Airport Corporation Authority.

§ 39-14.2-19. Airport Corporation Authority.
Notwithstanding the provisions of § 39-14.2-18, the Rhode Island airport corporation, or any successor entity authorized to oversee and control the property of Rhode Island T.F. Green International Airport and any other state airport, shall have the authority to establish reasonable regulations governing transportation network company (TNC) operators offering TNC services on airport property through proper amendment of the corporation’s ground transportation rules or by entering into operating agreements with TNCs.
History of Section.
P.L. 2016, ch. 346, § 1; P.L. 2016, ch. 367, § 1; P.L. 2021, ch. 32, § 8, effective June 1, 2021; P.L. 2021, ch. 36, § 8, effective June 1, 2021.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-14.2 - Transportation Network Company Services › Section 39-14.2-20. - Business records to be maintained, retained by transportation network companies.

§ 39-14.2-20. Business records to be maintained, retained by transportation network companies.
(a)
A TNC shall maintain individual trip records that detail the date, time, pick-up location, drop-off location, distance traveled, length of time of the trip, and total fare charged for every TNC service it coordinates in the state. Such records shall be maintained for a minimum of two (2) years from December 31 of the calendar year in which the services were rendered.
(b)
A TNC shall maintain detailed, TNC-operator records that include the dates and times the operator “logs into” and “logs out of” the TNC’s digital network, the number of TNC service trips the operator performs through the TNC’s digital network, and the total miles driven and fares collected. Additionally, the TNC shall maintain records of all passenger complaints lodged against each TNC operator and the results of any investigation or actions taken as a result of such complaints. Such records shall be maintained for a minimum of two (2) years from December 31 of the calendar year in which the services were rendered.
History of Section.
P.L. 2016, ch. 346, § 1; P.L. 2016, ch. 367, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-14.2 - Transportation Network Company Services › Section 39-14.2-21. - Anti-discrimination — Handicapped accessibility.

§ 39-14.2-21. Anti-discrimination — Handicapped accessibility.
(a)
A transportation network company shall adopt a policy of nondiscrimination based on the rider’s race, color, national origin, religious belief or affiliation, gender, physical disability, age, sexual orientation/identity, gender identity, or the pick-up location or drop-off location requested by the rider. TNCs and TNC operators shall not impose any additional charge(s) for providing services in compliance with this section.
(b)
TNC drivers shall comply with all applicable laws regarding nondiscrimination against riders or potential riders on the basis of the rider’s race, color, national origin, religious belief or affiliation, gender, physical disability, age, sexual orientation/identity, gender identity, or the pick-up location or drop-off location requested by the rider.
(c)
TNC operators shall not deny or refuse service to any rider accompanied by a service animal, nor shall a TNC operator impose any additional charge for the transportation of any service animal accompanying a TNC rider. Service animals shall be allowed to accompany the TNC rider in the passenger compartment of the vehicle without any conditions or restrictions, so long as the animal does not impede the safe operation of the vehicle.
History of Section.
P.L. 2016, ch. 346, § 1; P.L. 2016, ch. 367, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-14.2 - Transportation Network Company Services › Section 39-14.2-22. - Penalties for violations by TNCs or TNC operators.

§ 39-14.2-22. Penalties for violations by TNCs or TNC operators.
(a)
The administrator may impose civil sanctions upon any TNC or TNC operator subject to the applicable provisions of this chapter and/or any rules and regulations promulgated under it, who or that shall knowingly or willfully cause to be done any act prohibited by applicable sections of this chapter, or who or that shall be guilty of any violation of this chapter or the rules and regulations. The sanctions may include a civil penalty (fine) or the suspension or revocation of the TNC’s license.
(b)
If the division finds that a TNC has failed to comply with the provisions of § 39-14.2-7, the division shall conduct an audit of an additional sample of TNC records as determined by the division.
(1)
Upon a TNC’s first violation of § 39-14.2-7, the division shall fine the TNC five thousand dollars ($5,000). Upon any additional violations after a three-year (3) period during which the TNC has not violated § 39-14.2-7, the division shall fine the TNC seven thousand five hundred dollars ($7,500).
(2)
Upon a TNC’s second violation of § 39-14.2-7 within three (3) years, the division shall fine the TNC ten thousand dollars ($10,000) and shall require the TNC to produce a remediation plan to meet the requirements of § 39-14.2-7.
(3)
Upon a TNC’s third violation of § 39-14.2-7 within three (3) years, the division shall assume responsibility for implementing the provisions of § 39-14.2-7 on behalf of the TNC for at least six (6) months and until the TNC has provided a remediation plan and the division has determined that the TNC will successfully achieve full compliance with this chapter. At minimum, and subject to such other requirements as the division may establish by regulation, the division shall conduct required background checks for the TNC’s drivers. Any additional costs incurred by the division as a result of implementing this section shall be reimbursed by the TNC.
(c)
Nothing in this section shall be construed to limit the division’s authority to fine TNCs or TNC drivers or suspend or revoke TNC licenses.
History of Section.
P.L. 2016, ch. 346, § 1; P.L. 2016, ch. 367, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-15 - Water Supply › Section 39-15-1. - Power of condemnation for water supply purposes — Changes in highways.

§ 39-15-1. Power of condemnation for water supply purposes — Changes in highways.
Whenever the electors of any town, qualified to vote upon questions of taxation or involving the expenditure of money, shall have voted, at a town meeting called for that purpose, to provide a water supply for the inhabitants of the town, or for some part thereof; or whenever any town shall enter or shall have entered into any contract with any person or corporation to furnish the town with a water supply (a contract which towns are hereby authorized to make), then the town, or the person or corporation bound to fulfill the contract, as the case may be, may take, condemn, hold, use, and permanently appropriate any land, water, rights of water and of way, necessary and proper to be used in furnishing or enlarging any such water supply, including sites and materials for dams, reservoirs, pumping stations, and for coal houses, with a right-of-way thereto, and a right-of-way for water pipes along and across public highways, and through private lands, and including also lands covered or to be flowed by water, or to be in any other way used in furnishing, enlarging, or maintaining any water supply. And if any change in any highway shall be required for the accommodation of the water supply, then the town, person, or corporation may alter the grade of the highway or construct a bridge therein, under the direction of the town council of the town where the change is made, and as far as may be needful, first giving bond with surety satisfactory to a justice of the superior court, if requested, conditioned to reimburse the town for every expense and damage occasioned by a change of grade or other change in the highway.
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 123, § 1; C.P.A. 1905, § 1223; G.L. 1909, ch. 149, § 1; G.L. 1923, ch. 179, § 1; G.L. 1938, ch. 637, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 39-15-1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-15 - Water Supply › Section 39-15-2. - Payment for property taken.

§ 39-15-2. Payment for property taken.
Whenever any property or estate or rights of property shall be taken under the provisions of § 39-15-1, the owner thereof, including all persons having property rights therein, shall be paid therefor according to their respective interests, by the town, person, or corporation, taking the property or estate or rights of property.
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 123, § 2; G.L. 1909, ch. 149, § 2; G.L. 1923, ch. 179, § 2; G.L. 1938, ch. 637, § 2; G.L. 1956, § 39-15-2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-15 - Water Supply › Section 39-15-3. - Riparian rights as to tidelands.

§ 39-15-3. Riparian rights as to tidelands.
If any land covered by tidewater shall be taken under this chapter, then damages to the rights of every riparian owner and of every lessee of the land, if any, shall be awarded under the provisions hereof the same as for any other right of property.
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 123, § 9; G.L. 1909, ch. 149, § 9; G.L. 1923, ch. 179, § 9; G.L. 1938, ch. 637, § 9; G.L. 1956, § 39-15-3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-15 - Water Supply › Section 39-15-4. - Bond to pay damages for property taken.

§ 39-15-4. Bond to pay damages for property taken.
Whenever any property or estate or rights of property shall be taken under the provisions of this chapter for either of the purposes described in § 39-15-2 or § 39-15-3, and the person or corporation shall then, or at any time thereafter, be required by the owner of the property, estate, or right taken, to give bond with surety for the payment therefor, the person or corporation shall, without delay, give bond to the owner, with surety satisfactory to a justice of the superior court, conditioned to pay to the owner all damages that may be awarded him or her for the estate so taken.
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 123, § 3; C.P.A. 1905, § 1223; G.L. 1909, ch. 149, § 3; G.L. 1923, ch. 179, § 3; G.L. 1938, ch. 637, § 3; G.L. 1956, § 39-15-4; P.L. 1997, ch. 326, § 117.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-15 - Water Supply › Section 39-15-5. - Plat and description of property condemned.

§ 39-15-5. Plat and description of property condemned.
The town, person, or corporation taking any property, estate, or right of property under the provisions of this chapter, shall first cause a plat with a description thereof to be made, which, with a certificate of the taking of the property, estate, or right of property, shall contain a list of the owners thereof and of the persons interested therein, so far as the owners or person interested therein may be known to the town, person, or corporation taking the property, estate, or right of property, and which shall be filed in the office of the clerk of the superior court for the county where the property or estate is located.
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 123, § 4; C.P.A. 1905, § 1222; G.L. 1909, ch. 149, § 4; G.L. 1923, ch. 179, § 4; G.L. 1938, ch. 637, § 4; G.L. 1956, § 39-15-5.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-15 - Water Supply › Section 39-15-6. - Notice of condemnation proceedings.

§ 39-15-6. Notice of condemnation proceedings.
Upon the filing of any certificate, the clerk shall forthwith issue a notice to the several persons named in the certificate which shall contain the substance of the certificate, and also a notice of a time and place when the persons may appear in the court and be heard in reference to the necessity for the taking and the appointment of commissioners to appraise the damages accruing to them by virtue of the taking of their property, estate, or rights of property; and the clerk shall, for four (4) successive weeks thereafter, cause to be advertised in each issue of some newspaper published in the county a copy of the notice, requiring all persons interested in the premises to appear at the time and place, if they see fit, to be heard in the premises. The personal notice upon known parties shall be served as soon as may be, and at least twenty (20) days, before the time of the hearing, by some officer authorized to serve process or by some disinterested person.
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 123, § 4; G.L. 1909, ch. 149, § 4; G.L. 1923, ch. 179, § 4; G.L. 1938, ch. 637, § 4; G.L. 1956, § 39-15-6.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-15 - Water Supply › Section 39-15-7. - Hearing on condemnation — Commissioners to appraise damages — Award.

§ 39-15-7. Hearing on condemnation — Commissioners to appraise damages — Award.
At the time mentioned in the notice given under the authority of § 39-15-6, or at such adjournment from the time as the court shall order, the court, after hearing the parties in interest therein who may desire to be heard, shall first adjudge whether the taking of the property, estate, or rights in question is a public necessity, and, if that shall be adjudged affirmatively, the property and rights of property shall from that time be deemed to have been taken, and the court shall then appoint three (3) suitable persons to be commissioners to appraise the damages sustained by any person whose property, estate, or rights of property shall have been taken for either or any of the purposes authorized in this chapter. The commissioners, after being duly sworn to the faithful discharge of their trust and giving due notice to the parties in interest, shall proceed to hear the parties with their allegations and proofs, and to examine the premises, and shall make up and return their award in the premises to the clerk of the superior court from which they received their appointment, with their fees marked thereon, which fees, being first allowed by the court, shall be forthwith paid by the town, person, or corporation taking the property, estate, or rights of property embraced in the award.
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 123, § 5; C.P.A. 1905, § 1216; G.L. 1909, ch. 149, § 5; G.L. 1923, ch. 179, § 5; G.L. 1938, ch. 637, § 5; G.L. 1956, § 39-15-7; P.L. 1997, ch. 326, § 117.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-15 - Water Supply › Section 39-15-8. - Jury trial on damages.

§ 39-15-8. Jury trial on damages.
Upon the payment of the fees provided in § 39-15-7, the clerk of the superior court shall open the report of the commissioners, and the report may be examined by any person interested in the report. Any person or party aggrieved by any award of damages by the commissioners may claim a jury trial upon any item of damages thereby awarded, and may file his or her claim for the trial at any time within three (3) months from the opening of the report. The claim shall stand for trial by jury upon a proper issue based upon the claim, as other cases upon the docket of the court, and shall be tried in the court in every respect as other cases are there tried, including the right to object to rulings and to move for new trials for cause; and execution may be awarded thereon as in other cases; but if the party claiming the jury trial shall not therein obtain an award for damages more favorable to him or her than that given by the commissioners, he or she shall pay costs to the adverse party.
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 123, § 6; C.P.A. 1905, § 1216; G.L. 1909, ch. 149, § 6; G.L. 1923, ch. 179, § 6; G.L. 1938, ch. 637, § 6; G.L. 1956, § 39-15-8.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-15 - Water Supply › Section 39-15-9. - Judgment on award or verdict.

§ 39-15-9. Judgment on award or verdict.
Whenever the report of the commissioners shall be received by the court and no right of trial by jury shall be claimed thereon, the court shall enter judgment in favor of the several claimants for the damages awarded to them respectively; and so shall enter judgment upon the verdict of the jury, subject to the right to apply for new trials for cause, upon the rendition of the verdict; and the court shall forthwith grant execution upon all such judgments.
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 123, § 8; G.L. 1909, ch. 149, § 8; G.L. 1923, ch. 179, § 8; G.L. 1938, ch. 637, § 8; G.L. 1956, § 39-15-9.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-15 - Water Supply › Section 39-15-10. - Amendment of proceedings.

§ 39-15-10. Amendment of proceedings.
Any proceeding in taking any property or estate or rights of property, or in claiming damages therefor, or other proceeding under the provisions of this chapter, may at any stage of the proceeding, with the leave of the court, be amended upon such terms and conditions as to the court may appear to be just and proper.
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 123, § 7; G.L. 1909, ch. 149, § 7; G.L. 1923, ch. 179, § 7; G.L. 1938, ch. 637, § 7; G.L. 1956, § 39-15-10.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-15 - Water Supply › Section 39-15-11. - Grant of right to lay pipes and build reservoirs — Exemption from taxation.

§ 39-15-11. Grant of right to lay pipes and build reservoirs — Exemption from taxation.
The town council of any town or the city council of any city may grant to any person or corporation the right to lay water pipes in any of the public highways of the town or city for supplying the inhabitants of the town or city with water, and may consent to the erection, construction, and the right to maintain a reservoir or reservoirs within the town or city, for such time and upon such terms and conditions as they may deem proper, including therein, the power and authority to exempt the pipes and reservoirs and the land and works connected therewith from taxation.
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 40, § 37; G.L. 1909, ch. 50, § 39; G.L. 1923, ch. 51, § 42; G.L. 1938, ch. 333, § 42; G.L. 1956, § 39-15-11.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-15 - Water Supply › Section 39-15-12. - Liability of landowner for water charges — Lien.

§ 39-15-12. Liability of landowner for water charges — Lien.
The owner of any house, building, tenement, or estate shall be liable for the payment of the price or rent or rates fixed by any town, city, or incorporated fire district or water district for the use of water furnished by such town, city, fire district, or water district to the owner or occupant of the house, building, tenement, or estate; and the price, rent, or rates shall be a lien upon the house, building, tenement, and estate in the same way and manner as taxes assessed on real estate are liens, and, if not paid as required by the town, city, fire district, or water district, shall be collected in the same manner that taxes assessed on real estate are by law collected; provided, however, that the city of Cranston or any agency thereof may charge interest on delinquent payments at a rate of not more than twelve percent (12%) per annum; provided, however, that the city of Woonsocket or any agency thereof may charge interest on delinquent payments at a rate of not more than eighteen percent (18%) per annum.
History of Section.
P.L. 1909, ch. 428, § 1; G.L. 1923, ch. 301, § 31; G.L. 1938, ch. 449, § 1; P.L. 1940, ch. 949, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 39-15-12; P.L. 1982, ch. 143, § 1; P.L. 1982, ch. 343, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-15.1 - Water Suppliers Subject to Commission Rate Regulation › Section 39-15.1-1. - Purposes.

§ 39-15.1-1. Purposes.
The purposes of this chapter are to:
(1)
Augment current principles for setting the rates of public utilities that are water suppliers that are subject to commission rate regulation in a manner that facilitates:
(i)
Managing demand, especially seasonal demand;
(ii)
Investing in infrastructure repair and replacement;
(iii)
Recovering the full costs, including capital and operational, of water systems through water system revenues; and
(iv)
Establishing operating capital and debt service of sufficient size; and
(2)
Provide an optional system for multiyear water rates that are adjustable in accordance with an approved rate plan.
History of Section.
P.L. 2009, ch. 288, § 1; P.L. 2009, ch. 341, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-15.1 - Water Suppliers Subject to Commission Rate Regulation › Section 39-15.1-2. - Definitions.

§ 39-15.1-2. Definitions.
For the purposes of this chapter, the following definitions shall apply:
(1)
“Agricultural” shall mean commercial agricultural producers as defined in § 46-15.3-4(2).
(2)
“Commission” shall mean the public utilities commission established by chapter 1 of this title, with all powers set forth in chapter 1 of this title, including, but not limited to, the powers set forth in §§ 39-1-3 and 39-1-7, and in chapter 4 of this title, and subject to the provisions of chapter 5 of this title.
(3)
“Division” shall mean the division of public utilities and carriers.
(4)
“Water resources board” shall mean the water resources board having the duties set forth in chapter 15 of title 46.
(5)
“Water supplier” shall mean all water supply systems regulated by the public utilities commission including the Kent County Water Authority, Newport Water Department, Pawtucket Water Supply Board, Providence Water Supply Board, United Water Rhode Island, Woonsocket Water Department, and any future water supply system that meets the definition established in § 39-1-2(a)(20) pertaining to public utilities employed for the distribution of water to the consuming public.
(6)
“Water supply systems management plan” shall mean a water supply systems management plan prepared in accordance with § 46-15.3-5.1 and found by the water resources board, pursuant to the provisions of § 46-15.3-7.6, to be in compliance with the requirements for such plans.
History of Section.
P.L. 2009, ch. 288, § 1; P.L. 2009, ch. 341, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-15.1 - Water Suppliers Subject to Commission Rate Regulation › Section 39-15.1-4. - Optional multiyear rate plans.

§ 39-15.1-4. Optional multiyear rate plans.
(a)
Water suppliers may, at their discretion, file with the commission a rate plan for a period not to exceed six (6) years, which rate plans shall set forth proposed rates:
(1)
That are adequate, as described in § 39-15.1-3(a), to pay for all reasonable costs of service associated with water supply during the period of the plan, and may include projections of cost increases, and are equitable as described in § 39-15.1-3(b);
(2)
That attribute the cost of increased seasonal demand to customers who or that contribute to increased seasonal demand and that may include conservation pricing pursuant to § 39-15.1-3(d);
(3)
That provide for infrastructure maintenance, repair, and replacement, especially in order to meet goals for reduction of leakage and the accounting of non-billed water, that are included in a water supply systems management plan; and
(4)
That provide for the establishment and maintenance of operating reserves, capital reserves, and debt-service reserves as described in § 39-15.1-3(a).
(b)
The commission shall approve or reasonably amend the plan and the rates proposed therein.
(c)
A water supplier with a multiyear plan approved by the commission may change its rates consistent with provisions of the plan, provided that a forty-five (45) day notice is given to the commission and the division, which notice shall state the amount of the proposed rate changes, the manner in which the proposed rate is consistent with the approved plan, and the purpose of the proposed rate change. The proposed rate change shall be effective sixty (60) days after the notice to the commission and the division, unless the commission shall decide that the proposed rate increase may be unreasonable or inconsistent with the approved plan, in which case the commission shall hold a hearing on the proposed rate increase and may approve, or reasonably amend the proposed rate increase. Notwithstanding the foregoing notice provision, the commission shall be bound by the suspension period set forth in § 39-3-11.
(d)
A water supplier may petition the commission for a modification to an approved plan, and the commission in hearing and deciding the petition need only consider those portions or elements of the plan affected by the proposed modification. The commission shall approve or reasonably modify the proposed modification. An approved modification shall become part of the plan for purposes of subsection (c) of this section.
(e)
Each water supplier with an approved plan shall report annually to the commission and the division with regard to performance under the plan, including rates, revenues derived from rates, expenditures necessary to pay for all reasonable costs of service; and the level and status of operating reserves, capital reserves, and debt-service reserves.
History of Section.
P.L. 2009, ch. 288, § 1; P.L. 2009, ch. 341, § 1.