reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 20 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 20-2 - Licensing › Section 20-2-11. - Transfer or loan of license.

§ 20-2-11. Transfer or loan of license.
Unless otherwise provided in this title, a license issued to a person under this chapter shall be good only for the person to whom it is issued; and any transfer or loan of the license shall be grounds for revocation or suspension of that license pursuant to § 20-2-13.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 197, § 3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 20 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 20-2 - Licensing › Section 20-2-12. - Application for license.

§ 20-2-12. Application for license.
Every person entitled to a license under this chapter shall file an application with the director, or the director’s authorized agent, or any city or town clerk, properly sworn to, stating the name, age, occupation, place of residence, nationality, weight, height, and color of hair and eyes of the applicant for whom the license is wanted and pay the fees as provided in this chapter. All licenses issued under this chapter shall be valid only for the calendar year of issuance, unless otherwise specified in this title or in the rules and regulations adopted pursuant to this title.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 197, § 3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 20 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 20-2 - Licensing › Section 20-2-13. - License revocation.

§ 20-2-13. License revocation.
The license of any person who has violated the provisions of this title or the rules and regulations issued pursuant to this title may be suspended or revoked by the director in any manner and for any period as the director shall determine by regulation. Any person aggrieved by an order of suspension or revocation may appeal this order in accordance with the provisions of the Administrative Procedures Act, chapter 35 of title 42.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 197, § 3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 20 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 20-2 - Licensing › Section 20-2-14. - Licenses — Expiration.

§ 20-2-14. Licenses — Expiration.
Unless otherwise specified in this title, all licenses issued under this title shall be annual and shall expire on December 31 of every year.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 197, § 3; P.L. 1998, ch. 242, § 1; P.L. 2001, ch. 58, § 1; P.L. 2004, ch. 8, § 2; P.L. 2004, ch. 16, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 20 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 20-2 - Licensing › Section 20-2-15. - Freshwater fishing license.

§ 20-2-15. Freshwater fishing license.
(a)(1)
Resident:
twenty-one dollars ($21.00); commencing July 1, 2025, twenty-four dollars ($24.00); commencing July 1, 2028, twenty-seven dollars ($27.00).
(2)
Nonresident:
thirty-eight dollars ($38.00); commencing July 1, 2025, forty-one dollars ($41.00); commencing July 1, 2028, forty-four dollars ($44.00).
(3)
Nonresident tourist:
eighteen dollars ($18.00); commencing July 1, 2025, twenty dollars ($20.00); commencing July 1, 2028, twenty-two dollars ($22.00). This license shall entitle the licensee to fish in Rhode Island for three (3) consecutive days including the day of issue.
(b)
Freshwater fishing licenses shall expire on the last day of February of each year.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 197, § 3; P.L. 1986, ch. 549, § 1; P.L. 1996, ch. 288, § 1; P.L. 2002, ch. 65, art. 13, § 16; P.L. 2021, ch. 162, art. 7, § 2, effective July 1, 2021.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 20 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 20-2 - Licensing › Section 20-2-16. - Hunting license.

§ 20-2-16. Hunting license.
(a)(1)
Resident:
twenty-one dollars ($21.00); commencing July 1, 2025, twenty-four dollars ($24.00); commencing July 1, 2028, twenty-seven dollars ($27.00).
(2)
Nonresident:
fifty-five dollars ($55.00); commencing July 1, 2025, sixty-five dollars ($65.00); commencing July 1, 2028, seventy-five dollars ($75.00).
(3)
Nonresident landowner:
a nonresident citizen of the United States and owner of real estate in Rhode Island assessed for taxation at a valuation of not less than thirty thousand dollars ($30,000) may obtain a resident’s hunting license.
(4)
Shooting preserve:
three dollars and fifty cents ($3.50).
(5)
Nonresident three (3) day:
twenty dollars ($20.00). This license shall entitle the licensee to hunt in Rhode Island for three (3) consecutive days as validated by the issuing agent.
(6)
Resident junior hunting license:
fourteen dollars ($14.00).
(7)
Nonresident junior hunting license:
forty dollars ($40.00).
(b)
Hunting licenses shall expire on the last day of February of each year.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 197, § 3; P.L. 1986, ch. 549, § 1; P.L. 1996, ch. 288, § 1; P.L. 2002, ch. 65, art. 13, § 16; P.L. 2021, ch. 162, art. 7, § 2, effective July 1, 2021.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 20 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 20-2 - Licensing › Section 20-2-16.1. - Shooting preserves.

§ 20-2-16.1. Shooting preserves.
The annual license fee for operating a shooting preserve shall be twenty-five dollars ($25.00).
History of Section.
P.L. 1982, ch. 30, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 20 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 20-2 - Licensing › Section 20-2-17. - Combination fishing and hunting license.

§ 20-2-17. Combination fishing and hunting license.
The director may grant to any eligible resident applying for a combination hunting and fishing license a license that shall entitle the licensee to the privileges of both hunting and fishing licenses, for a fee of thirty-eight dollars ($38.00); commencing July 1, 2025, forty-three dollars ($43.00); commencing July 1, 2028, forty-eight dollars ($48.00). The license shall expire on the last day of February of each year.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 197, § 3; P.L. 1986, ch. 549, § 1; P.L. 2002, ch. 65, art. 13, § 16; P.L. 2021, ch. 162, art. 7, § 2, effective July 1, 2021.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 20 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 20-2 - Licensing › Section 20-2-18. - Deer permits.

§ 20-2-18. Deer permits.
(a)(1)
Resident:
thirteen dollars ($13.00); commencing July 1, 2025, fourteen dollars ($14.00); commencing July 1, 2028, fifteen dollars ($15.00).
(2)
Nonresident:
twenty-six dollars and fifty cents ($26.50); commencing July 1, 2025, twenty-seven dollars and fifty cents ($27.50); commencing July 1, 2028, twenty-eight dollars and fifty cents ($28.50).
(b)
A deer permit is good only for the season in which it is issued.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 197, § 3; P.L. 1996, ch. 288, § 1; P.L. 2002, ch. 65, art. 13, § 16; P.L. 2021, ch. 162, art. 7, § 2, effective July 1, 2021.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 20 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 20-2 - Licensing › Section 20-2-18.1. - Wild turkey permits.

§ 20-2-18.1. Wild turkey permits.
(a) No person shall attempt to take any wild turkey without first obtaining a regular hunting license and a turkey permit for the current year. Permits shall be sold at the direction of the director for a fee of eight dollars ($8.00) for residents and twenty-one dollars and fifty cents ($21.50) for nonresidents. Commencing July 1, 2025, permits shall be sold for a fee of nine dollars ($9.00) for residents and twenty-three dollars ($23.00) for nonresidents. Commencing July 1, 2028, permits shall be sold for a fee of ten dollars and fifty cents ($10.50) for residents and twenty-four dollars and fifty cents ($24.50) for nonresidents. The issuing agent may retain a fee of fifty cents ($.50) for each permit and shall remit the remainder to the department.
(b)
A wild turkey permit shall be good only for the season in which it is issued.
(c)
All monies derived by the department from the sale of wild turkey permits shall be expended for turkey habitat acquisition in Rhode Island and wild turkey restoration management and research.
History of Section.
P.L. 2002, ch. 65, art. 13, § 17; P.L. 2021, ch. 162, art. 7, § 2, effective July 1, 2021.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 20 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 20-2 - Licensing › Section 20-2-18.2. - Stocked game bird permits required.

§ 20-2-18.2. Stocked game bird permits required.
No person shall attempt to take any stocked game bird without first obtaining a regular hunting license and a stocked game bird permit for the current year.
History of Section.
P.L. 2002, ch. 65, art. 13, § 17; P.L. 2011, ch. 330, § 1; P.L. 2011, ch. 403, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 20 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 20-2 - Licensing › Section 20-2-18.3. - Stocked game bird permit fees and bag limits.

§ 20-2-18.3. Stocked game bird permit fees and bag limits.
Permits shall be sold at the direction of the director for a fee of seventeen dollars ($17.00). Commencing July 1, 2025, the fee for a permit shall be eighteen dollars and fifty cents ($18.50). Commencing July 1, 2028, the fee for a permit shall be twenty-one dollars ($21.00). The issuing agent will retain a fee of fifty cents ($0.50) for each permit and shall remit the remainder to the department. The permit will allow the person to harvest a daily bag and season limit as described in regulations promulgated by the director. All monies derived by the department from the sale of stocked game bird permits shall be expended for stocking game birds and wildlife habitat acquisition in Rhode Island.
History of Section.
P.L. 2002, ch. 65, art. 13, § 17; P.L. 2011, ch. 330, § 1; P.L. 2011, ch. 403, § 1; P.L. 2021, ch. 162, art. 7, § 2, effective July 1, 2021.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 20 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 20-2 - Licensing › Section 20-2-19. - Commercial minnow license.

§ 20-2-19. Commercial minnow license.
The fee for a commercial minnow license shall be twenty dollars ($20.00). The license is valid only during the season in which it is issued.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 197, § 3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 20 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 20-2 - Licensing › Section 20-2-20. - Repealed.

§ 20-2-20. Repealed.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 197, § 3; P.L. 1983, ch. 173, § 1; P.L. 1987, ch. 445, § 1; P.L. 1992, ch. 133, art. 17, § 1; Repealed by P.L. 2002, ch. 47, § 3, effective January 1, 2003.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 20 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 20-2 - Licensing › Section 20-2-21. - Repealed.

§ 20-2-21. Repealed.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 197, § 3; P.L. 1992, ch. 133, art. 17, § 1; Repealed by P.L. 2002, ch. 47, § 3, effective January 1, 2003.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 20 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 20-2 - Licensing › Section 20-2-22. - Nonresident’s noncommercial shellfish license.

§ 20-2-22. Nonresident’s noncommercial shellfish license.
(a)
Every nonresident over the age of twelve (12) years may obtain a nonresident, noncommercial annual shellfish license for a fee of two hundred dollars ($200).
(b)
A nonresident may obtain one noncommercial limited license per calendar year covering fourteen (14) days, including the date of issue, for eleven dollars ($11.00).
(c)
A nonresident must obtain a shellfish landing license, for a fee of two hundred dollars ($200), to land shellfish (surf clams, blue mussels, ocean quahaugs, sea scallops) harvested outside Rhode Island waters.
(d)
A nonresident landowner, as defined in § 20-1-3(a)(5), who owns residential real estate in Rhode Island assessed for taxation at a valuation of not less than thirty thousand dollars ($30,000) may, with proof of residential property ownership in the form of a current tax bill from a town or city hall showing that the nonresident landowner is current in his or her property tax obligation, obtain an annual, noncommercial, nonresident shellfish license for a fee of twenty-five dollars ($25.00).
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 197, § 3; P.L. 1988, ch. 278, § 1; P.L. 1992, ch. 133, art. 17, § 1; P.L. 1998, ch. 78, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 20 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 20-2 - Licensing › Section 20-2-23. - Repealed.

§ 20-2-23. Repealed.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 197, § 3; P.L. 1992, ch. 133, art. 17, § 1; Repealed by P.L. 2002, ch. 47, § 3, effective January 1, 2003.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 20 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 20-2 - Licensing › Section 20-2-24. - Recreational lobster license.

§ 20-2-24. Recreational lobster license.
(a) Noncommercial pot:
forty dollars ($40.00). The license is issued only to a legal resident of the state of Rhode Island.
(b) Noncommercial divers:
forty dollars ($40.00). The license is issued only to a legal resident of the state of Rhode Island.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 197, § 3; P.L. 1988, ch. 230, § 1; P.L. 1988, ch. 398, § 1; P.L. 1992, ch. 133, art. 17, § 1; P.L. 2002, ch. 47, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 20 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 20-2 - Licensing › Section 20-2-25. - Repealed.

§ 20-2-25. Repealed.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 197, § 3; P.L. 1985, ch. 325, § 1; P.L. 1992, ch. 133, art. 17, § 1; Repealed by P.L. 2002, ch. 47, § 3, effective January 1, 2003.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 20 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 20-2 - Licensing › Section 20-2-26. - Repealed.

§ 20-2-26. Repealed.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 197, § 3; P.L. 1982, ch. 30, § 1; P.L. 1992, ch. 133, art. 17, § 1; Repealed by P.L. 2002, ch. 47, § 3, effective January 1, 2003.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 20 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 20-2 - Licensing › Section 20-2-26.1. - Repealed.

§ 20-2-26.1. Repealed.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 197, § 3; P.L. 1984, ch. 305, § 1; P.L. 1992, ch. 133, art. 17, § 1; Repealed by P.L. 2002, ch. 47, § 3, effective January 1, 2003.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 20 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 20-2 - Licensing › Section 20-2-27. - Repealed.

§ 20-2-27. Repealed.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 197, § 3; P.L. 1988, ch. 230, § 1; P.L. 1988, ch. 398, § 1; P.L. 1992, ch. 133, art. 17, § 1; P.L. 2001, ch. 58, § 1; Repealed by P.L. 2002, ch. 47, § 3, effective January 1, 2003.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 20 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 20-2 - Licensing › Section 20-2-27.1. - Rhode Island party and charter vessel license.

§ 20-2-27.1. Rhode Island party and charter vessel license.
(a)
All party and charter vessels carrying recreational passengers to take or attempt to take marine species upon the navigable state and coastal waters of Rhode Island shall be required to obtain a Rhode Island party and charter vessel license. The annual fee shall be one hundred dollars ($100) for a resident of Rhode Island and shall be three hundred dollars ($300) for a nonresident. All licensed party and charter vessels shall be required to display a party and charter vessel decal provided by the department. To obtain a license, the owner of a qualified vessel must submit:
(1)
A current copy of the operator’s United States Coast Guard license to carry passengers for hire;
(2)
A current copy of the vessel’s “Certificate of Documentation” certifying that the vessel is documented “Coastwise,” or if the vessel is under five (5) net tons, a copy of the vessel’s state registration;
(3)
Proof that the operator and crew are currently enrolled in a random drug testing program that complies with the federal government’s 46 C.F.R. § 16.101 et seq. “Drug Testing Program” regulations; and
(4)
A signed license application form certifying that the vessel is and will be operated in compliance with all state and federal safety regulations for the vessel.
(b)
Rhode Island party and charter vessel licenses shall expire on the last day of December every year.
History of Section.
P.L. 1998, ch. 54, § 1; P.L. 2017, ch. 451, § 24; P.L. 2021, ch. 162, art. 7, § 3, effective July 6, 2021.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 20 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 20-2 - Licensing › Section 20-2-27.2. - Repealed.

§ 20-2-27.2. Repealed.
History of Section.
P.L. 2001, ch. 58, § 3; Repealed by P.L. 2002, ch. 47, § 3, effective January 1, 2003.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 20 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 20-2 - Licensing › Section 20-2-28. - Repealed.

§ 20-2-28. Repealed.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 197, § 3; P.L. 1992, ch. 133, art. 17, § 1; P.L. 2001, ch. 58, § 1; Repealed by P.L. 2002, ch. 47, § 3, effective January 1, 2003.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 20 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 20-2 - Licensing › Section 20-2-28.1. - Repealed.

§ 20-2-28.1. Repealed.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 197, § 3; P.L. 1992, ch. 133, art. 17, § 1; Repealed by P.L. 2002, ch. 47, § 3, effective January 1, 2003.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 20 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 20-2 - Licensing › Section 20-2-28.2. - Deposit of fees.

§ 20-2-28.2. Deposit of fees.
In any fiscal year, moneys generated from license fees and vessel fees, provided for in §§ 20-2-22 and 20-2-24 and chapter 2.1 of this title, over and above the sum of two hundred thousand dollars ($200,000) through June 30, 2003, and on or after July 1, 2003, the full amount shall be deposited with the general treasurer and appropriated to the department of environmental management. The state controller is authorized and directed to draw orders upon the general treasurer for payment of any sum, or sums, as may be necessary, from time to time, upon receipt by him or her of duly authenticated vouchers presented by the director of environmental management. The moneys received under this section, consistent with an annual plan for the allocation and use of said funds adopted by the department with the advice of the marine fisheries council, are to be used only for the purpose of fishery conservation and restoration and resource enhancement, a minimum of two hundred thousand dollars ($200,000) for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2003, and each fiscal year thereafter, and for the following specific purposes:
(1)
For protection and propagation of marine fish, lobsters, and shellfish;
(2)
For additional enforcement of the marine fishery regulations;
(3)
For transplanting shellfish from closed areas or enhancing the shellfish resource through other technologies including seeding;
(4)
For fishing port development and construction;
(5)
For staff support of, and expenses incurred by, the marine fisheries council;
(6)
For lease and purchase of land or acquisition of conservation easements; and
(7)
For technical support to, and expenses incurred by, the department for the collection, processing, analysis, and maintenance of data for fisheries management.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 197, § 3; P.L. 1982, ch. 188, art. 4, § 1; P.L. 1992, ch. 133, art. 17, § 1; P.L. 2002, ch. 47, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 20 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 20-2 - Licensing › Section 20-2-29. - Commercial game licenses.

§ 20-2-29. Commercial game licenses.
(a) Artificial propagation and sale of live game:
twenty-five dollars ($25.00).
(b) Raising game for liberation:
five dollars ($5.00).
(c) Sale of carcasses of domestic game birds:
twenty-five dollars ($25.00).
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 197, § 3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 20 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 20-2 - Licensing › Section 20-2-30. - Fur trapping and licenses.

§ 20-2-30. Fur trapping and licenses.
(a)(1)
Fur trapper — Resident:
fifteen dollars ($15.00); commencing July 1, 2025, twenty dollars ($20.00); commencing July 1, 2028, twenty-five dollars ($25.00).
(2)
Fur trapper — Nonresident:
fifty dollars ($50.00); commencing July 1, 2025, seventy-five dollars ($75.00); commencing July 1, 2028, one hundred dollars ($100.00).
(b)
Fur trapper and fur licenses expire on the last day of March of each year.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 197, § 3; P.L. 2015, ch. 141, art. 20, § 16; P.L. 2021, ch. 162, art. 7, § 2, effective July 1, 2021.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 20 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 20-2 - Licensing › Section 20-2-32. - Inspections condition of license.

§ 20-2-32. Inspections condition of license.
All persons granted a license under the provisions of this chapter are deemed to have consented to the reasonable inspection of any boat, vessel, net, rake, bullrake, tong, dredge, trap, pot, vehicle, structure, or other contrivance used regularly for the keeping or storage of fish, shellfish, crustaceans, or any game bag firearms, creel, box, locker, basket, crate, blind, stand, or hunting, fishing, or trapping paraphernalia used in conjunction with the licensed activity by persons duly authorized by the director.
History of Section.
P.L. 1986, ch. 214, § 2; P.L. 1987, ch. 254, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 20 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 20-2 - Licensing › Section 20-2-33. - Altering and counterfeiting a license.

§ 20-2-33. Altering and counterfeiting a license.
Every person who falsely makes, alters, forges, or counterfeits, or who causes to be made, altered, forged, or counterfeited, a license issued under this title, or purporting to be a license issued under this title, or who shall have in his or her possession such a false, altered, forged, or counterfeit license, is guilty of a misdemeanor and is subject to the penalties prescribed in § 20-1-16.
History of Section.
P.L. 1986, ch. 214, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 20 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 20-2 - Licensing › Section 20-2-34. - Definitions.

§ 20-2-34. Definitions.
As used in §§ 20-2-34 — 20-2-38:
(1)
“Migratory waterfowl” means all waterfowl species in the family anatidae, including wild ducks, geese, brant, and swans.
(2)
“Stamp” means the state migratory waterfowl hunting stamp furnished by the division of fish and wildlife as provided for in these sections.
History of Section.
P.L. 1988, ch. 663, § 1; P.L. 1989, ch. 542, § 31.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 20 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 20-2 - Licensing › Section 20-2-35. - Waterfowl stamp required.

§ 20-2-35. Waterfowl stamp required.
No person sixteen (16) years of age or older shall take, or attempt to take, any migratory waterfowl without first obtaining a regular hunting license and a Rhode Island migratory waterfowl stamp for the current year. Each stamp shall be validated by the signature of the licensee written in ink across the face of the stamp and shall not be transferable. The stamp year shall run from July 1 to June 30. The migratory waterfowl stamp shall be available at all outlets currently used for the issuance of a hunting license.
History of Section.
P.L. 1988, ch. 663, § 1; P.L. 2002, ch. 65, art. 13, § 16.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 20 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 20-2 - Licensing › Section 20-2-36. - Waterfowl stamp design, production, and distribution.

§ 20-2-36. Waterfowl stamp design, production, and distribution.
The director of the department of environmental management shall be responsible for the design, production, procurement, distribution, and sale of all stamps and all marketable stamp by-products such as posters, artwork, calendars, and other items.
History of Section.
P.L. 1988, ch. 663, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 20 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 20-2 - Licensing › Section 20-2-37. - Waterfowl stamp fees.

§ 20-2-37. Waterfowl stamp fees.
(a)
Stamps shall be sold at the direction of the director for a fee of eight dollars ($8.00). Commencing July 1, 2025, the fee for a stamp shall be nine dollars ($9.00). Commencing July 1, 2028, the fee for a stamp shall be ten dollars ($10.00). The issuing agent may retain a fee of fifty cents ($.50) for each stamp and shall remit the remainder of each fee to the department. The director shall establish a uniform sale price for all categories of by-products.
(b)
[Deleted by P.L. 2002, ch. 65, art. 13, § 16.]
History of Section.
P.L. 1988, ch. 663, § 1; P.L. 2002, ch. 65, art. 13, § 16; P.L. 2021, ch. 162, art. 7, § 2, effective July 1, 2021.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 20 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 20-2 - Licensing › Section 20-2-38. - Disposition of waterfowl receipts.

§ 20-2-38. Disposition of waterfowl receipts.
All waterfowl stamp receipts, and all receipts from the sale of stamp by-products, shall be deposited in a special waterfowl fund. All stamp and by-products receipts shall be expended through the appropriations process for waterfowl habitat, acquisition, improvement, and research projects.
History of Section.
P.L. 1988, ch. 663, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 20 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 20-2 - Licensing › Section 20-2-38.1. - Grants, donations, and gifts to the waterfowl fund.

§ 20-2-38.1. Grants, donations, and gifts to the waterfowl fund.
The director is authorized to accept any grant, devise, bequest, donation, gift or assignment of money, bonds, or other valuable securities for deposit in the waterfowl fund, which may be accepted for specific use(s) that the grant and grantee may jointly identify within the purposes of the waterfowl fund, or for the general purposes of the fund. The director may also accept land as provided in § 20-18-1.
History of Section.
P.L. 2002, ch. 65, art. 13, § 17.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 20 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 20-2 - Licensing › Section 20-2-39. - Definitions.

§ 20-2-39. Definitions.
As used in §§ 20-2-39 — 20-2-43, the following terms shall have the following meanings:
(1)
“Stamp” means a Rhode Island trout conservation stamp issued by the division of fish and wildlife as provided for in § 20-2-41; and
(2)
“Trout” means any fish species in the family salmonidae including all species of trout, salmon, and charr.
History of Section.
P.L. 1992, ch. 133, art. 17, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 20 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 20-2 - Licensing › Section 20-2-40. - Trout conservation stamp required.

§ 20-2-40. Trout conservation stamp required.
No person fifteen (15) years of age or older shall take any trout without first obtaining a regular fishing license and a Rhode Island trout conservation stamp for the current year. Each stamp shall be validated by signature of the licensee written in ink across the face of the stamp, shall not be transferable, and shall be in his or her possession while engaged in the activity permitted under the terms of the license and stamp. The stamp year shall run from March 1 to the last day in February. The trout conservation stamp shall be available at all outlets currently used for the issuance of the fishing license.
History of Section.
P.L. 1992, ch. 133, art. 17, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 20 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 20-2 - Licensing › Section 20-2-41. - Trout conservation stamp design, production, and distribution.

§ 20-2-41. Trout conservation stamp design, production, and distribution.
The director of the department of environmental management shall adopt and shall be responsible for the design, production, procurement, distribution, and sale of all trout conservation stamps and all marketable stamp by-products such as posters, artwork, calendars, and other items.
History of Section.
P.L. 1992, ch. 133, art. 17, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 20 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 20-2 - Licensing › Section 20-2-42. - Trout conservation stamp fee.

§ 20-2-42. Trout conservation stamp fee.
Stamps shall be sold at the direction of the director for a fee of five dollars and fifty cents ($5.50). Commencing July 1, 2025, the fee for a stamp shall be six dollars ($6.00). Commencing July 1, 2028, the fee for a stamp shall be six dollars and fifty cents ($6.50). The issuing agent may retain a fee of fifty cents ($.50) for each stamp sold and shall remit the remainder of each fee to the department. The director shall establish uniform sale prices for all categories of by-products.
History of Section.
P.L. 1992, ch. 133, art. 17, § 2; P.L. 2021, ch. 162, art. 7, § 2, effective July 1, 2021.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 20 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 20-2 - Licensing › Section 20-2-43. - Disposition of trout conservation stamp receipts.

§ 20-2-43. Disposition of trout conservation stamp receipts.
All trout conservation stamp receipts, and all receipts from the sale of stamp by-products, shall be deposited in a special trout conservation fund. All stamp and stamp by-products receipts shall be expended through the appropriations process for operations, trout habitat including acquisition, improvement research, and culture projects.
History of Section.
P.L. 1992, ch. 133, art. 17, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 20 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 20-2 - Licensing › Section 20-2-44. - Shellfish transplant program.

§ 20-2-44. Shellfish transplant program.
In addition to any appropriation made pursuant to § 20-2-28.2, the general assembly shall appropriate from the general fund to the division of marine fisheries the amount it deems necessary for the purpose of maintaining a shellfish transplant program for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2000, and thereafter, the division of marine fisheries shall develop a sustainable shellfish management plan.
History of Section.
P.L. 1999, ch. 468, § 1; P.L. 2017, ch. 191, § 3; P.L. 2017, ch. 242, § 3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 20 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 20-2 - Licensing › Section 20-2-45. - Narragansett Bay Oyster Restoration Act.

§ 20-2-45. Narragansett Bay Oyster Restoration Act.
(a) Findings of fact.
The general assembly hereby finds and declares the following:
(1)
Oyster fishery has historically been important to Rhode Island for economic and ecosystem benefits;
(2)
The Rhode Island oyster fishery has been in deep decline and is a fraction of its historical levels due to disease;
(3)
The development of indigenous, disease-resistant oyster brood stock will assist in the restoration of the oyster population in Narragansett Bay;
(4)
The plantings of indigenous, disease-resistant oyster shellfish seed stock will increase the Narragansett Bay’s oyster population and annual harvest; and
(5)
An increase in oyster population will have a positive impact on the state’s economy and the overall health of Narragansett Bay and its ecosystem.
(b) Authority to solicit federal funds for oyster restoration.
The general assembly hereby vests in the director of the department of environmental management, acting through the division of marine fisheries, authority and responsibility to solicit annual federal funding, including, but not limited to, funding from the United States departments of Interior, Agriculture and Commerce for purposes of developing, restoring, and maintaining both the oyster population and oyster habitats in and around Narragansett Bay.
(c) Program to achieve oyster restoration in Narragansett Bay.
The director of the department of environmental management shall work in conjunction with the aquaculture coordinator located in the coastal resources management council to develop programs that address the declining oyster population in Narragansett Bay and which programs shall further promote the development, restoration, and maintenance of the oyster population and oyster habitats in and around Narragansett Bay, as set forth in this section.
History of Section.
P.L. 2001, ch. 354, § 1; P.L. 2017, ch. 191, § 3; P.L. 2017, ch. 242, § 3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 20 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 20-2.1 - Commercial Fishing Licenses › Section 20-2.1-1. - Findings.

§ 20-2.1-1. Findings.
The general assembly finds and declares:
(1)
That the constitution of the state places plenary authority and responsibility in the general assembly to provide for the conservation of natural resources of the state, including its marine fisheries;
(2)
That the state of Rhode Island has historically established programs to provide for and regulate harvesting, taking, landing, and selling marine finfish, crustaceans, and shellfish for the benefit of the people of the state;
(3)
That federal government and regional entities have established, and continue to establish, regulatory programs, management measures, quotas, and restrictions that affect persons engaged in marine fisheries in Rhode Island, and that Rhode Island functions in whole or in part in the context of these federal and regional programs depending on the marine species;
(4)
That the department of environmental management, in accordance with the requirements of § 20-3.1-7(1), has issued goals and principles pertaining to biological, socio-economic, and licensing and data collection issues that present;
(5)
That the rights and interests of residents of Rhode Island to engage in fishing, including commercial fishing, need to be recognized and protected;
(6)
That the rights and interests of persons engaged in commercial fishing are affected by fisheries management programs and allocations and need to be reported and be given consideration; and
(7)
That Rhode Island’s statutes and programs for marine fisheries management and licensure developed over time and need to be brought up-to-date and made adaptable to changing conditions and circumstances.
History of Section.
P.L. 2002, ch. 47, § 4.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 20 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 20-2.1 - Commercial Fishing Licenses › Section 20-2.1-3. - Definitions.

§ 20-2.1-3. Definitions.
For the purposes of this chapter the following terms shall mean:
(1)
“Activity standard” means a level of fishing participation used to establish criteria for the issuance of new licenses.
(2)
“Commercial fisherman” means a natural person licensed to catch, harvest, or take marine species from the marine waters for sale.
(3)
“Council” means the marine fisheries council established by chapter 3 of this title.
(4)
“Crustaceans” means lobsters, crabs, shrimp, and for purposes of this chapter it also includes horseshoe crabs.
(5)
“Director” means the director of the department of environmental management.
(6)
“Family member” means a spouse, mother, father, brother, sister, child, or grandchild of the holder or transferor of a commercial fishing license.
(7)
“Finfish” means cold-blooded aquatic vertebrates with fins, including fish, sharks, rays, skates, and eels and also includes, for the purposes of this chapter, squid.
(8)
“Fisheries sectors” means and comprises crustaceans, finfish, and shellfish, as defined in this section, each of which shall singularly be considered a fishery sector.
(9)
“Fishery endorsement” means the authorization for a license holder to participate in a designated fishery sector at a limited or unlimited level.
(10)
“Grace period” means sixty (60) calendar days commencing the last day of February and shall only apply to renewals of licenses from the immediately preceding year.
(11)
“Medical hardship” means a significant medical condition that renders an active licensed person unable to fish for a period in excess of fourteen (14) days, either as a result of the physical loss of function or impairment of a body part or parts, or debilitating pain. Demonstration of the medical hardship shall be in the form of a diagnosis and prognosis signed by a medical doctor (M.D. or O.D.).
(12)
“Medical incapacity” means death or injury that renders an active license holder permanently unable to actively fish. Demonstration of medical incapacity shall be in the form of a death certificate, or a diagnosis and prognosis signed by a medical doctor (M.D. or O.D.).
(13)
“Other endorsement” means the authorization for a license holder or vessel to participate in a designated activity.
(14)
“Shellfish” means quahogs, clams, mussels, scallops, oysters, conches, and mollusks in general other than squid.
(15)
“Student commercial fisherman” means a resident twenty-three (23) years of age or younger, licensed pursuant to this chapter, who is a full-time student.
History of Section.
P.L. 2002, ch. 47, § 4; P.L. 2004, ch. 8, § 3; P.L. 2004, ch. 16, § 3; P.L. 2021, ch. 162, art. 7, § 4, effective July 6, 2021.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 20 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 20-2.1 - Commercial Fishing Licenses › Section 20-2.1-10. - [Repealed.]

§ 20-2.1-10. [Repealed.]
History of Section.
P.L. 2002, ch. 47, § 4; repealed by P.L. 2023, ch. 281, § 10, effective June 22, 2023; repealed by P.L. 2023, ch. 282, § 10, effective June 22, 2023.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 20 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 20-2.1 - Commercial Fishing Licenses › Section 20-2.1-11. - [Repealed.]

§ 20-2.1-11. [Repealed.]
History of Section.
P.L. 2002, ch. 47, § 4; repealed by P.L. 2023, ch. 281, § 10, effective June 22, 2023; repealed by P.L. 2023, ch. 282, § 10, effective June 22, 2023.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 20 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 20-2.1 - Commercial Fishing Licenses › Section 20-2.1-12. - Repealed.

§ 20-2.1-12. Repealed.
History of Section.
P.L. 2002, ch. 47, § 4; P.L. 2004, ch. 8, § 3; P.L. 2004, ch. 16, § 3; Repealed by P.L. 2016, ch. 49, § 1, effective June 6, 2016; P.L. 2016, ch. 55, § 1, effective June 6, 2016.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 20 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 20-2.1 - Commercial Fishing Licenses › Section 20-2.1-13. - Liberal construction.

§ 20-2.1-13. Liberal construction.
The provisions of this chapter, being necessary for the welfare of the state and its inhabitants, shall be liberally construed so as to effectuate its purposes.
History of Section.
P.L. 2002, ch. 47, § 4.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 20 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 20-2.2 - Recreational Saltwater Fishing License › Section 20-2.2-2. - Purposes.

§ 20-2.2-2. Purposes.
The purposes of this chapter are to:
(1)
Enable recreational fisherman to fish legally in the marine waters of Rhode Island, and in all offshore federal waters, via a state-based recreational fishing licensing program, established in accordance with the requirements set forth by the federal Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act (16 U.S.C. § 1801 et seq.);
(2)
Establish a state-based licensing program that will: provide Rhode Island recreational fisherman, including residents and non-resident visitors, with a convenient and inexpensive licensing process; support and contribute to more accurate state-based fishing and resource assessments; and provide for fair and effective management programs that optimize benefits and opportunities for Rhode Island recreational fisherman; and
(3)
Establish a dedicated funding vehicle to support improved coastal access opportunities for recreational fisherman along the Rhode Island shoreline.
History of Section.
P.L. 2009, ch. 375, § 1; P.L. 2009, ch. 379, § 1; P.L. 2017, ch. 451, § 25.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 20 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 20-2.2 - Recreational Saltwater Fishing License › Section 20-2.2-3. - Definitions.

§ 20-2.2-3. Definitions.
As used in this chapter, the following terms shall have the following meanings:
(1)
“Angling” means to fish recreationally using hook and line.
(2)
“Blind” means an individual who is blind in accordance with § 20-2-31.
(3)
“Exempted state” means a state that has been designated as an exempted state by the national marine fisheries service, pursuant to the National Saltwater Angler Registry Program, 50 C.F.R. Part 600.
(4)
“Finfish” means all species of finfish, excluding shellfish and crustaceans.
(5)
“Fishing recreationally” means all forms of angling, as well as all forms of spearfishing, the purpose of which is to harvest, or attempt to harvest, finfish for noncommercial purposes.
(6)
“Marine waters of Rhode Island” means all tidal and territorial waters of the state out to three (3) nautical miles from the coastline, including all state waters surrounding Block Island.
(7)
“Permanently disabled” means an individual who is one hundred percent (100%) permanently disabled in accordance with § 20-2-31.
(8)
“Resident” means an individual who has had his or her actual place of residence and has lived in the state of Rhode Island for a continuous period of not less than six (6) months.
(9)
“Spearfishing” means to fish recreationally using a spear or a powerhead.
History of Section.
P.L. 2009, ch. 375, § 1; P.L. 2009, ch. 379, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 20 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 20-2.2 - Recreational Saltwater Fishing License › Section 20-2.2-4. - License required.

§ 20-2.2-4. License required.
(a)
It shall be unlawful for any person to fish recreationally in the marine waters of Rhode Island without:
(1)
A recreational fishing license issued in accordance with the provisions of this chapter;
(2)
A recreational fishing license or registration issued by any other exempted state that affords reciprocity to Rhode Island residents who hold recreational fishing licenses issued pursuant to this chapter; or
(3)
A federal saltwater angler registration issued by the National Marine Fisheries Service.
(b)
An individual will be considered to be fishing recreationally if they are engaged in the process of angling or spearfishing, or if they possess equipment used for angling or spearfishing and are also in possession of finfish.
History of Section.
P.L. 2009, ch. 375, § 1; P.L. 2009, ch. 379, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 20 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 20-2.2 - Recreational Saltwater Fishing License › Section 20-2.2-5. - Exemptions.

§ 20-2.2-5. Exemptions.
A license shall not be required for anyone who is:
(1)
Under the age of sixteen (16);
(2)
Permanently disabled or blind;
(3)
On leave from active military duty;
(4)
A passenger on a party or charter boat holding a current and valid license issued by the department in accordance with § 20-2-27.1;
(5)
Fishing recreationally during a designated free-fishing day, which may be established by the director and occur on no more than one day per year; or
(6)
Fishing commercially in accordance with a current and valid commercial fishing license.
History of Section.
P.L. 2009, ch. 375, § 1; P.L. 2009, ch. 379, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 20 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 20-2.2 - Recreational Saltwater Fishing License › Section 20-2.2-6. - Fees — Terms and conditions — Information required.

§ 20-2.2-6. Fees — Terms and conditions — Information required.
(a)(1)
Resident, seven dollars ($7.00);
(2)
No fee shall be charged for residents who are over the age of sixty-five (65) or in active military service;
(3)
Nonresident, ten dollars ($10.00);
(4)
Licenses issued pursuant to this subsection shall expire on December 31st of each year.
(b)(1)
Resident or nonresident seven-day (7), five dollars ($5.00);
(2)
This license shall entitle the holder to fish recreationally for seven (7) consecutive days, including the day of issuance.
(c)
All license applications shall be required to provide their name, address, phone number, and date of birth.
(d)
Any lost or destroyed license shall be replaceable, during the calendar year in which it was issued, or in the case of a seven-day (7) license, during the seven-day (7) period when it is valid, at no cost to the license holder.
(e)
The director is authorized to determine a portion of the license fee, not to exceed any of the amounts set forth above in this section, that may be retained by the state-approved vendor and authorized licensing agents, as set forth in § 20-2.2-7, as commission for services rendered.
History of Section.
P.L. 2009, ch. 375, § 1; P.L. 2009, ch. 379, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 20 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 20-2.2 - Recreational Saltwater Fishing License › Section 20-2.2-7. - License issuance.

§ 20-2.2-7. License issuance.
The director is authorized and directed to engage the contractual services of a state-approved vendor to develop and implement a web-based system that will serve as the sole means for obtaining licenses pursuant this chapter. The vendor’s responsibilities shall include, but not limited to:
(1)
Development of the web-based application;
(2)
Creation and servicing of authorized licensing agents who will be able to vend licenses at their establishments;
(3)
Collection and transmittal of license fee revenues; and
(4)
Storage and transmittal of license holder database.
History of Section.
P.L. 2009, ch. 375, § 1; P.L. 2009, ch. 379, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 20 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 20-2.2 - Recreational Saltwater Fishing License › Section 20-2.2-8. - Violations.

§ 20-2.2-8. Violations.
(a)
Any person who violates any provision of this chapter shall be guilty of a civil violation and subject to a fine, as follows:
(1)
For a first offense, a fine of ten dollars ($10.00);
(2)
For second offense, a fine of fifty dollars ($50.00); and
(3)
For a third or subsequent offense, a fine of one hundred dollars ($100).
(b)
Jurisdiction over violations of this chapter shall be with the traffic tribunal.
History of Section.
P.L. 2009, ch. 375, § 1; P.L. 2009, ch. 379, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 20 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 20-2.2 - Recreational Saltwater Fishing License › Section 20-2.2-9. - Deposit of fees — Appropriation and use of license fee revenue.

§ 20-2.2-9. Deposit of fees — Appropriation and use of license fee revenue.
All moneys generated from license fees issued under this chapter, other than any commissions retained by the licensing vendor and licensing agents per § 20-2.2-6(e), shall be deposited in a restricted receipt account, hereby created and known as the recreational saltwater fishing license restricted receipt account. The state controller is authorized and directed to draw orders upon the general treasurer for payment of any sum, or sums, as may be necessary from time to time upon receipt by him or her of duly authenticated vouchers presented by the director of environmental management. In accordance with § 20-9-3 and in keeping with § 20-3.1-7(3), the monies from license fees received under this section are to be used only for the following specific purposes:
(1)
Administering and enforcing the recreational saltwater fishing license program established by this chapter;
(2)
Managing Rhode Island’s marine recreational fisheries, with particular reference to improving state-based recreational fishery catch and effort statistics and stock assessments; and
(3)
Enhancing recreational fishing opportunities in the state.
History of Section.
P.L. 2009, ch. 375, § 1; P.L. 2009, ch. 379, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 20 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 20-2.2 - Recreational Saltwater Fishing License › Section 20-2.2-10. - Accountability and oversight.

§ 20-2.2-10. Accountability and oversight.
(a)
On an annual basis, the department shall prepare a report that details the number of recreational saltwater fishing licenses issued; the total amount of license fee revenue received; the expenditures made during the prior year utilizing the fee revenue; and how the department plans to allocate and use the fee revenue during the next year. The report shall also include any additional, relevant information relating to the administration and enforcement of the licensing program and status of state-based recreational fishing assessments and stock assessments.
(b)
The department shall annually submit the report to the marine fisheries council, and the department, in coordination with the council, shall annually schedule and conduct one or more public meetings to solicit input from recreational fisherman and the general public. On the basis of such input, and the council’s own review, the council shall annually prepare an addendum to the report, setting forth the council’s opinion on whether the licensing program is meeting its intended purposes and offering any recommendations for modifying the program.
(c)
The department shall annually submit the report, including the addendum developed by the council, to the general assembly.
History of Section.
P.L. 2009, ch. 375, § 1; P.L. 2009, ch. 379, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 20 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 20-2.2 - Recreational Saltwater Fishing License › Section 20-2.2-11. - Rules and regulations.

§ 20-2.2-11. Rules and regulations.
The director is authorized to promulgate, adopt, and enforce any and all rules and regulations deemed necessary to carry out the purposes of this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 2009, ch. 375, § 1; P.L. 2009, ch. 379, § 1.