reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-6 - Railroad Companies › Section 39-6-20. - Recording of contracts — Declaration of full payment or performance of conditions — Fees.

§ 39-6-20. Recording of contracts — Declaration of full payment or performance of conditions — Fees.
The contracts herein authorized shall be recorded by the secretary of state in a book of records to be kept for that purpose. And on payment in full of the purchase money, and the performance of the terms and conditions stipulated in any contract, a declaration in writing to that effect may be made by the vendor, lessor, or bailor, or his or her or its assignee, which declaration may be made on the margin of the record of the contract, duly attested, or it may be made by a separate instrument, to be acknowledged by the vendor, lessor, or bailor, or his or her or its assignee, and recorded as provided in this section. And for such services, the secretary of state shall be entitled to demand and retain for the use of the state the sum of fifty cents ($.50) for each one hundred (100) words recorded, for recording each of the contracts and each of the declarations, and a fee of fifty cents ($.50) for noting the declaration on the margin of the record.
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 187, § 58; G.L. 1909, ch. 215, § 67; G.L. 1923, ch. 251, § 55; G.L. 1938, ch. 124, § 55; G.L. 1956, § 39-6-20; P.L. 1960, ch. 74, § 1; P.L. 1997, ch. 326, § 109.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-6 - Railroad Companies › Section 39-6-21. - Prior contracts for sale of equipment.

§ 39-6-21. Prior contracts for sale of equipment.
Sections 39-6-19 and 39-6-20 shall not be held to invalidate or affect in any way any contract made prior to February 21, 1893, of the kind referred to in § 39-6-19, and any contract theretofore made may, upon compliance with the provisions of §§ 39-6-19 and 39-6-20, be recorded as provided in § 39-6-20.
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 187, § 59; G.L. 1909, ch. 215, § 65; G.L. 1923, ch. 251, § 56; G.L. 1938, ch. 124, § 56; G.L. 1956, § 39-6-21; P.L. 1997, ch. 326, § 109.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-6 - Railroad Companies › Section 39-6-22. - Liability of trustees and bondholders operating road.

§ 39-6-22. Liability of trustees and bondholders operating road.
Whenever any railroad corporation shall mortgage or convey in trust its railroad or railroad property, or any part thereof, to trustees, for the security of its bondholders or other creditors, or for the security of any class of bondholders or other creditors, and the trustees shall have taken possession of any railroad or railroad property, in pursuance of any authority contained in their mortgage or deed of trust, and shall take charge of and operate the railroad or railroad property for the benefit of the creditors for whom the trust was created, the trustees shall not, after the assent of the bondholders as hereinafter provided, be personally liable for any cause or injury arising from the operation of the road, or while they may operate the same, except for their willful mismanagement or for any contracts made by them as trustees; but all railroad property shall, the bondholders having assented thereto, be liable for the acts and proceedings of the trustees in the execution of their trusts, to the extent of the interest of the trustees of the bondholders or creditors, for whose benefit the trustees may act, and any action or other proceeding therefor shall be brought against the trustees, describing them as such.
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 208, § 22; G.L. 1909, ch. 259, § 22; G.L. 1923, ch. 303, § 22; G.L. 1938, ch. 486, § 18; G.L. 1956, § 39-6-22.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-6 - Railroad Companies › Section 39-6-23. - Annual report by trustees.

§ 39-6-23. Annual report by trustees.
Whenever any railroad corporation, the charter whereof requires the directors to make an annual report to the general assembly, shall have passed into the hands of trustees, the trustees, instead of the directors, shall make the report while the road remains in their hands, which report shall be approved by the division of public utilities and carriers, in like manner as if it had been made by the directors of the corporation.
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 187, § 53; G.L. 1909, ch. 215, § 57; G.L. 1923, ch. 251, § 48; G.L. 1938, ch. 124, § 48; G.L. 1956, § 39-6-23.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-6 - Railroad Companies › Section 39-6-24. - Redemption of franchise and property from sale on execution.

§ 39-6-24. Redemption of franchise and property from sale on execution.
The franchise and property of a railroad corporation may be redeemed by it, or any mortgagee thereof, from sale on execution by paying or tendering to the purchaser the sum paid therefor at the sale, with interest, at any time within sixty (60) days after the final determination of any appeal to reverse the judgment upon which the execution issued, or of any suit to test the validity of the sale, brought before the sale or within sixty (60) days thereafter; but nothing in this section shall be construed as authorizing a sale.
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 177, § 16; G.L. 1909, ch. 213, § 16; G.L. 1923, ch. 251, § 63; G.L. 1938, ch. 124, § 63; G.L. 1956, § 39-6-24; P.L. 1997, ch. 326, § 109.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-6 - Railroad Companies › Section 39-6-25. - Rights and liabilities of purchaser at mortgage or judicial sale.

§ 39-6-25. Rights and liabilities of purchaser at mortgage or judicial sale.
The purchaser of any railroad or street railway and of the property, rights, privileges, and franchises therewith connected, at a sale under a valid foreclosure of a legal mortgage thereof, or at a valid sale under the power of sale of the mortgage, or at a valid sale under the orders and directions of any court of competent jurisdiction, and the grantee and successors in title of any purchaser, shall be subject to all and the same duties, liabilities, restrictions, and other provisions respecting the railroad or street railway, or arising from the construction, maintenance, and operation thereof, and shall have all and the same powers and rights relating to the railroad or street railway, and the construction, maintenance, and operation thereof, which the corporation by which the mortgage was made, or which was the owner of the railroad or street railway at the time of the sale, was subject to and had at the time of the sale.
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 177, § 17; G.L. 1909, ch. 213, § 17; G.L. 1923, ch. 251, § 64; G.L. 1938, ch. 124, § 64; G.L. 1956, § 39-6-25.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-6 - Railroad Companies › Section 39-6-26. - Right of purchaser to convey to corporation.

§ 39-6-26. Right of purchaser to convey to corporation.
Any purchaser of any railroad or street railway, and of any corresponding property, rights, privileges, and franchises, shall have the right and is hereby authorized and empowered to sell, assign, transfer, and convey all and each railroad or street railway and the property, rights, privileges, and franchises so purchased by him or her to any legally organized corporation duly created and empowered to construct, maintain, and operate a railroad or street railway, and to purchase, maintain, operate, and use any railroad or street railway, and the property, rights, privileges, and franchises, upon such terms and conditions as may be mutually agreed upon between the purchaser and the corporation; and the person so selling any railroad or street railway and the property, rights, privileges, and franchises to the corporation, may receive in payment for the railroad or street railway the stock or bonds of the corporation at not less than the par value thereof.
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 177, § 18; G.L. 1909, ch. 213, § 18; G.L. 1923, ch. 251, § 65; G.L. 1938, ch. 124, § 65; G.L. 1956, § 39-6-26.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-6 - Railroad Companies › Section 39-6-27. - Safety, sanitation, and adequate shelter for railroad employees.

§ 39-6-27. Safety, sanitation, and adequate shelter for railroad employees.
(a)
The public utilities administrator is hereby authorized to promulgate and enforce reasonable rules and regulations relating to safety, sanitation, and adequate shelter as affecting the welfare and health of railroad trainpersons, engine persons, yard persons, maintenance of way employees, highway crossing watchpersons, clerical, platform, freight house, express employees, station agents, and signal station operators.
(b)
In addition to any rules and regulations promulgated by the public utilities administrator as set forth in this section, the public utilities commission shall promulgate rules and regulations and provide for penalties for the violation thereof with respect to the installation of heaters and safety equipment on track motor vehicles or self-propelled equipment.
History of Section.
P.L. 1959, ch. 55, § 1; P.L. 1987, ch. 179, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-6 - Railroad Companies › Section 39-6-27.1. - Maintenance of way employees in area of double or multiple tracks.

§ 39-6-27.1. Maintenance of way employees in area of double or multiple tracks.
Whenever maintenance of way crews or employees are working in the area of double or multiple railroad tracks, the following safety precautions shall be mandatory:
(1)
All trains shall be notified of the location of the crews or employees by mile markers or mile posts by train order.
(2)
All trains operating adjacent to such a work area shall reduce speed to freight train speed, not to exceed fifty miles per hour (50 m.p.h.).
(3)
One member of the crew shall be assigned as a flagperson to warn of approaching trains and shall be equipped with a radio, horn, and flag.
(4)
No work shall be conducted and all employees shall stand clear while a train is approaching, passing, and clearing a work area.
(5)
Failure by the railroad company to issue information by train order, which results in any violation of the above requirements, will subject the railroad company to a fine of five hundred dollars ($500) for each violation. The fine will be collected by the public utilities commission and remitted to the general fund of the state.
History of Section.
P.L. 1988, ch. 183, § 1; P.L. 1989, ch. 104, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-6 - Railroad Companies › Section 39-6-27.2. - After accident counseling.

§ 39-6-27.2. After accident counseling.
(a)
Every railroad corporation and railway company shall provide or make available to every member of an operating crew involved in an accident on its railway or right of way that results in loss of life or serious bodily injury, counseling services or other critical incident stress debriefing services within forty-eight (48) hours; provided, that the engineer, or other operating crew member involved in the accident shall be relieved from duty with compensation and applicable benefits at the site of the accident for a minimum of three (3) days; provided, further, that the leave may be without compensation and benefits if the railroad corporation makes the affirmative showing that the accident was due to negligence of an engineer or other operating crew member; provided, however, that any person who is otherwise eligible for these benefits and who has been found to have not acted negligently shall not be precluded from participation due to the negligence of a fellow crew member.
(b)
Any engineer returning to duty following such leave shall, if he or she so requests, be assigned an assistant engineer or other qualified person who shall accompany him or her for such time as may be necessary to guarantee the public safety, or until an appropriate medical practitioner has determined that the engineer does not suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder.
(c)
The administrator of the public utilities commission shall promulgate rules and regulations necessary for the implementation and enforcement of the provisions of this section.
History of Section.
P.L. 1993, ch. 458, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-6 - Railroad Companies › Section 39-6-29. - Caboose car or rider car.

§ 39-6-29. Caboose car or rider car.
(a)
It shall be unlawful for any corporation or individual to maintain, equip, or use within the state, any railroad caboose car, a rider car, or any car used as either a caboose car or rider car, unless the car is equipped with suitable and adequate water supply to provide for sanitary washing, toilet, and drinking facilities, and further, unless the interior of the car is illuminated by electric lights of sufficient candle power to enable employees working in the caboose or rider cars to perform their respective duties safely and without undue eye strain; provided, however, that any of the aforesaid car or cars that are operated or used exclusively between one hour after sunrise and one hour before sunset need not be equipped as provided in this section.
(b)
Any violation of the provisions of this section shall be considered a misdemeanor, punishable by a fine of not less than two hundred dollars ($200) or more than one thousand dollars ($1,000) for each separate offense.
History of Section.
P.L. 1960, ch. 38, § 1; P.L. 1997, ch. 326, § 109.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-6 - Railroad Companies › Section 39-6-30. - Protection of railroad employees.

§ 39-6-30. Protection of railroad employees.
As a condition of his or her approval of any abandonment of railroad facilities, not including a relocation by a carrier or carriers by railroad subject to the provisions of this title, the public utilities administrator shall require a fair and equitable arrangement to protect the interest of the railroad employees adversely affected who are not protected by a collective bargaining agreement in such an event, and he or she shall include in his or her orders of approval such terms and conditions for the protection of the employees as he or she deems to be fair and equitable and to be substantially equivalent to those then generally imposed by the Interstate Commerce Commission in abandonment proceedings brought before the commission; provided, however, that the conditions shall provide, as a minimum, that during the period of four (4) years from the effective date of the order, the transaction will not result in employees of the carrier or carriers by railroad affected by the order being in a worse position with respect to their employment, except that the protection afforded to any employee pursuant to this section shall not be required to continue for a longer period following the effective date of the order than the period during which the employee was in the employ of the carrier or carriers prior to the effective date of the order; and, provided further, that, notwithstanding any other provisions of this section, the public utilities administrator may accept, as a fair and equitable arrangement for the protection of railroad employees affected by any order of the public utilities administrator issued under this section, an agreement pertaining to the protection of the interest of employees entered into by any carrier or carriers by railroad and the duly authorized representative or representatives of its or their employees.
History of Section.
P.L. 1968, ch. 193, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-6 - Railroad Companies › Section 39-6-31. - Declaration of policy regarding abandoned railroad property.

§ 39-6-31. Declaration of policy regarding abandoned railroad property.
The general assembly finds and declares that the preservation of open spaces and the orderly control and development of unused or undeveloped land bears a substantial relationship to the public health, safety, and welfare of the people of this state. When a railroad is granted permission to abandon any rail line by the Interstate Commerce Commission and gives up use of the entire width of its right of way in that area, an opportunity is afforded for the establishment of a facility for another means of transportation or for a necessary public recreation or conservation area in the community land which was not theretofore readily available. Railroads, by reason of their statutory privilege of land acquisition by condemnation and statutory protection from acquisition of their land by condemnation, are a proper subject for a special statutory procedure for the disposition of their unused or undeveloped lands.
History of Section.
P.L. 1969, ch. 240, § 9; P.L. 1992, ch. 331, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-6 - Railroad Companies › Section 39-6-32. - Disposition of abandoned railroad property.

§ 39-6-32. Disposition of abandoned railroad property.
Whenever any railroad is granted permission to abandon any rail line by the Interstate Commerce Commission and ceases to be used by the railroad claiming title thereto, and within one year thereafter the head of any department, board, bureau, commission, or agency of the state government, hereinafter referred to as the acquiring authority, declares that in his or her opinion the acquisition thereof will be advantageous to the establishment, construction, development, betterment, or maintenance of any governmental facility, public work, public improvement, or public preserve, the acquiring authority shall be and hereby is authorized and empowered, within the limits of the appropriations available or that shall be made available therefor, with the approval of the governor, to acquire interests, estates, easements, and privileges in the right of way for public use, by purchase, lease, gift, or by proceedings pursuant to § 39-6-33.
History of Section.
P.L. 1969, ch. 240, § 9; P.L. 1992, ch. 331, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-6 - Railroad Companies › Section 39-6-33. - Determination of price to be paid.

§ 39-6-33. Determination of price to be paid.
If the railroad shall agree with the acquiring authority upon the sum to be paid, and the price shall be approved by the state properties committee, the sum agreed shall be paid to the railroad upon delivery of proper instruments of conveyance. If no agreement as to the price to be paid is reached within one year following the abandonment, then within six (6) months thereafter, or if the abandoned right of way has not been disposed of otherwise, then at any time thereafter, the acquiring authority may petition the superior court for one of the counties in which the land is situated for an assessment by a judge thereof of the fair value to be paid for the estate or interest in the land. A hearing on the petition shall be conducted as in other civil actions, and either party shall have the right to appeal the decision as provided by law. Within thirty (30) days after a final judgment is entered, the acquiring authority shall tender payment in accordance therewith to the railroad and receive proper instruments of conveyance. If the acquiring authority shall fail to make tender within the time allowed, the railroad shall be at liberty to dispose of the land or any estate or interest therein in any manner it shall see fit.
History of Section.
P.L. 1969, ch. 240, § 9.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-6.1 - Railroad Preservation › Section 39-6.1-1. - Definitions.

§ 39-6.1-1. Definitions.
As used in this chapter:
(1)
“Agent for the state” means and includes the department of transportation as agent for the state as that term is used in 49 U.S.C. § 1654 and any amendments to it.
(2)
“Department” means the department of transportation or other appropriate state agency of this state.
(3)
“Includes” and variants of it should be read as if the phrase “but is not limited to” were also set forth.
(4)
“Persons” means individuals, corporations, partnerships, or foreign and domestic associations.
(5)
“Rail properties” means assets or rights, both real and personal, owned, leased, or otherwise controlled by a railroad that are used or useful in providing rail transportation service.
(6)
“Rail service” means both freight and passenger service.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 28, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-6.1 - Railroad Preservation › Section 39-6.1-2. - General powers of department.

§ 39-6.1-2. General powers of department.
The department is hereby authorized to exercise those powers necessary for the state to qualify for rail service assistance pursuant to the provisions of 49 U.S.C. § 1654 or other applicable federal laws, including authority:
(1)
To establish a state plan for rail transportation and local rail services.
(2)
To administer and coordinate the state plan.
(3)
To provide in the plan for the equitable distribution of federal rail service assistance.
(4)
To promote, operate, supervise, and support safe, adequate, and efficient rail services, or to enter into contractual relationships with public or private agencies, persons, or corporations to do so.
(5)
To employ sufficient trained and qualified personnel for these purposes.
(6)
To maintain adequate programs of investigation, research, promotion, and development in connection with such purposes and to provide for public participation therein.
(7)
To provide satisfactory assurances on behalf of the state that fiscal control and fund accounting procedures will be adopted by the state as may be necessary to assure proper disbursement of and accounting of federal funds paid to the state as rail service assistance.
(8)
To comply with the regulation of the Secretary of Transportation of the United States Department of Transportation affecting federal rail service programs.
(9)
To do all things otherwise necessary to maximize federal assistance to the state under 49 U.S.C. § 1654 or other applicable federal laws.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 28, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-6.1 - Railroad Preservation › Section 39-6.1-3. - Assistance to rail lines.

§ 39-6.1-3. Assistance to rail lines.
The department is hereby authorized to provide financial assistance, within the limits of the funds appropriated for this purpose, for the continuation of operations and maintenance of any railroad within or serving the state as provided for in 49 U.S.C. § 1654 or other relevant federal legislation. The department may also act as the agent in cooperation with any transportation authority, local governmental units, any group of rail users, or any person, and the federal government in any rail service assistance program.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 28, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-6.1 - Railroad Preservation › Section 39-6.1-4. - Access to information.

§ 39-6.1-4. Access to information.
The department, in performing its planning function, is authorized to request any railroad to provide such data and information as are necessary for the planning process. Railroads operating within the state shall provide the information within sixty (60) days of the date of the request. The department shall exercise all necessary caution to avoid disclosure of confidential information supplied under this section.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 28, § 1; P.L. 1976, ch. 143, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-6.1 - Railroad Preservation › Section 39-6.1-5. - Acquisition and necessity.

§ 39-6.1-5. Acquisition and necessity.
(a)
The department, as sole agent for the state, may acquire by purchase, lease, or otherwise, any portion or portions of the rail property of any railroad corporation, including the tracks and ties, rights of way, land, buildings, appurtenances, and other facilities necessary for the operation of railroads. In addition, the department may so acquire, improve, and maintain any other property found by the department to be necessary for the operation of a railroad subject to the approval of the state properties committee.
(b)
The authority to so acquire rail properties extends to rail properties both within and not within the jurisdiction of the Interstate Commerce Commission. It also includes rail properties within the purview of 49 U.S.C. § 1654, any amendments to it, and any other relevant federal legislation.
(c)
The acquisition of the rail properties, and other property, by the department is for the purpose of the continued and future operation of a railroad deemed to be in the public interest. The acquisition of the rail properties and other property is declared to be a public purpose and to be reasonably necessary. This action may be taken in concert with another state or states as necessary to insure continued rail service in this state.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 28, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-6.1 - Railroad Preservation › Section 39-6.1-6. - Operation, sale, or lease.

§ 39-6.1-6. Operation, sale, or lease.
The department may operate itself or may sell, transfer, or lease all, or any part, of the rail properties and other property acquired under the provisions of this chapter to any responsible person, firm, or corporation, whether private, quasi-public, or public, for continued operation and maintenance of a railroad, or other public purpose, provided that approval for the continued operation, or other public purpose is granted by the Interstate Commerce Commission of the United States, whenever approval is required. The sale, transfer, or lease shall be for a price, and subject to any further terms and conditions the department feels are necessary and appropriate to effectuate the purposes of this chapter and subject to the approval of the state properties committee.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 28, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-6.1 - Railroad Preservation › Section 39-6.1-7. - Interstate Commerce Commission certificate.

§ 39-6.1-7. Interstate Commerce Commission certificate.
After acquiring any railroad lines within the state, the department shall assist any responsible person, firm, or corporation, to secure, as promptly as possible, any order or certificate required by the Interstate Commerce Commission for the performance of railroad service. The department shall also give any assurances or guarantees that are necessary or desirable to carry out the purposes of this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 28, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-6.1 - Railroad Preservation › Section 39-6.1-8. - Title to property of railroads.

§ 39-6.1-8. Title to property of railroads.
The department may take whatever steps are necessary in order to determine the absolute fee simple title ownership of all rail properties of any railroad within the state. The determination may include the status of the rail properties with respect to easements, rights of way, leases, reversionary rights, fee simple title ownership, and any and all related title matters. The department may retain attorneys, experts, or other assistants, and issue any contracts as are necessary to make the title determination.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 28, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-6.1 - Railroad Preservation › Section 39-6.1-9. - Sale of rail properties.

§ 39-6.1-9. Sale of rail properties.
All rail properties within the state offered for sale by any railway corporation after April 9, 1976, shall be offered for sale to the state in the first instance at the lowest price at which the railway corporation is willing to sell. The railway corporation shall notify the state in writing if it desires to offer for sale any rail properties. The state shall have a period of not more than ninety (90) days from receipt of the notification to accept the offer. If the offer is not accepted in writing within the period of time, the railway corporation shall be free to sell the rail properties to any other party. For purposes of this section only, rail properties shall mean only those rail properties for which permission to abandon rail lines thereon has not been granted by the Interstate Commerce Commission at the time of offer for sale. This section shall apply only to the sale of rail properties and not the sale of easements or similar interests in rail properties. No person, firm, or corporation shall be permitted to take any of the properties of a railway corporation by condemnation.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 28, § 1; P.L. 1976, ch. 143, § 1; P.L. 1992, ch. 332, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-6.1 - Railroad Preservation › Section 39-6.1-10. - Cooperation between states.

§ 39-6.1-10. Cooperation between states.
The department may cooperate with other states in connection with the purchase, operation, or assistance of or to any rail properties within this state. The department may also acquire trackage rights in other states and rail properties lying in other states in order to carry out the intentions and purposes of this chapter. In carrying out the authority conferred by this section, the department may enter into general contractual arrangements, including joint purchasing and leasing of rail properties, with other states.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 28, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-6.1 - Railroad Preservation › Section 39-6.1-10.1. - Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority.

§ 39-6.1-10.1. Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority.
Notwithstanding any general or special law to the contrary, the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (“MBTA”), a body politic and corporate and a political subdivision of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, and all its real and personal property shall be exempt from taxation and from betterments and special assessments; and the MBTA shall not be required to pay any tax, excise, or assessment to or for this state or any of its political subdivisions; nor shall the MBTA be required to pay any fee or charge for any permit or license, nor any compliance fee, issued to it by this state, by any department, board, or officer thereof, or by any political subdivision of this state; and the MBTA shall be exempt from tolls for the use of highways, bridges, and tunnels. Bonds and notes issued by the MBTA in support of purchases and/or improvements for maintaining and/or improving commuter rail service to and/or within the state of Rhode Island, their transfer and the income therefrom, including any profit made on the sale thereof, shall at all times be free from taxation with this state.
History of Section.
P.L. 2003, ch. 386, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-6.1 - Railroad Preservation › Section 39-6.1-11. - Cooperation between the department and local governmental units.

§ 39-6.1-11. Cooperation between the department and local governmental units.
In weighing the varied interests of the residents of this state, the department shall give consideration, as best as the situation allows, to the individual interest of any city or town expressing a desire to acquire a portion, or all, of the abandoned real estate located within its jurisdiction. The department may exercise its powers under this chapter to acquire the abandoned property for subsequent conveyance to the city or town.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 28, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-6.1 - Railroad Preservation › Section 39-6.1-12. - Federal funds — Appropriations.

§ 39-6.1-12. Federal funds — Appropriations.
The department may utilize federal funds, grants, gifts, or donations that are available, and any sums that are appropriated, in carrying out the purposes of this chapter. The department may apply for entitlement or other funds available under the provisions of 49 U.S.C. § 1654 or other federal programs.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 28, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-6.1 - Railroad Preservation › Section 39-6.1-13. - Application for federal loans.

§ 39-6.1-13. Application for federal loans.
The department may apply for a loan or a guarantee of a loan under any applicable federal local rail assistance programs, within the limit of funds appropriated for those purposes.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 28, § 1; P.L. 1984, ch. 81, § 13.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-6.1 - Railroad Preservation › Section 39-6.1-14. - [Repealed.]

§ 39-6.1-14. [Repealed.]
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 28, § 14; Repealed by P.L. 1976, ch. 143, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-6.1 - Railroad Preservation › Section 39-6.1-15. - Purchase of rolling stock, equipment, and machinery.

§ 39-6.1-15. Purchase of rolling stock, equipment, and machinery.
The department is authorized to purchase any railroad rolling stock, equipment, and machinery necessary for the operation and maintenance of any rail properties purchased by it on behalf of the state, with any funds made available for this purpose. The department may also acquire, and have available, a pool of equipment and machinery that may be utilized by the operators of the rail properties for the purpose of track maintenance, and other related railroad activities, upon terms and conditions determined by the department.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 28, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-6.1 - Railroad Preservation › Section 39-6.1-16. - Rebuilding, modernization, and maintenance of rail properties.

§ 39-6.1-16. Rebuilding, modernization, and maintenance of rail properties.
The department may contract for the rebuilding or relocation of any rail properties acquired pursuant to this chapter, within the provisions of 49 U.S.C. § 1654 or any other appropriate legislation. The department may also spend any sums appropriated, as well as any other available funds, for the modernization, rebuilding, and relocation of any rail properties owned by the state or by a private carrier. The department may do any maintenance on any rail properties owned by the state as is necessary in the public interest.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 28, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-6.1 - Railroad Preservation › Section 39-6.1-17. - Authorization to contract to improve rail transportation service.

§ 39-6.1-17. Authorization to contract to improve rail transportation service.
The department may contract with any domestic or foreign person, firm, corporation, agency, or government to provide, operate, maintain, or improve rail transportation service on the rail properties acquired by the state under this chapter, or may provide such services, operation, and maintenance itself.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 28, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-6.1 - Railroad Preservation › Section 39-6.1-18. - Disposition of acquired rail properties.

§ 39-6.1-18. Disposition of acquired rail properties.
Whenever the department determines that any rail properties acquired by the state are no longer needed for railroad purposes, it may, with the permission of the governor, permanently or temporarily transfer the rail properties to any other state department or agency, or political subdivision of the state, which shall utilize the properties for a public purpose. Whenever more than one department or agency, or political subdivision, wishes to utilize the property, the department shall resolve such a conflict and make a prompt determination of the reasonable and proper order of priority, taking into consideration any applicable state plans, policies, and objectives. If no state department or agency or political subdivision wants the properties, the department may sell them; provided, however, that all dispositions shall be with the approval of the state properties committee.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 28, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-6.1 - Railroad Preservation › Section 39-6.1-19. - Appropriations.

§ 39-6.1-19. Appropriations.
The general assembly shall, from time to time, appropriate such funds as are necessary to effectuate the purposes of this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 28, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-6.1 - Railroad Preservation › Section 39-6.1-20. - Rules and regulations.

§ 39-6.1-20. Rules and regulations.
The department shall promulgate rules and regulations consistent with and for the purpose of adequately implementing the foregoing provisions of this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 28, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-7 - Operation of Railroads Generally › Section 39-7-1. - Minimum clearance on bridges erected over tracks.

§ 39-7-1. Minimum clearance on bridges erected over tracks.
No bridges, viaducts, or other obstructions shall be constructed, insofar as practicable, over tracks in a railroad yard over which switching movements will be made at not less than twenty-three feet (23′) in the clear, and over any other railroad tracks at not less than twenty-two feet, six inches (22’6"), measuring from the bottom of the lowest timber to the top of the rail on the tracks. An exemption may be granted from any and all requirements of this section; provided, however, that any exemption must be limited to the specific bridge, viaduct, or other obstructions upon agreement between the department of transportation, public utilities administrator, railroad company, and the designated labor representative representing the railroad employees whose duties are to be atop of cars while in motion; provided, further, the agreement shall fix and prescribe reasonable regulations governing the location exempted; and provided, further, that an agreement between the aforesaid parties must be consummated within fifteen (15) days from the date of the request for an exemption from any and all requirements of this section. In case of failure to consummate an agreement, the public utilities administrator shall issue an order on the request for an exemption. The public utilities administrator shall, when issuing an order, take into consideration that his or her paramount responsibility in his or her decision to issue the exemption must be the safety of the railroad employees whose duties are to be atop of cars while in motion.
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 187, § 24; G.L. 1909, ch. 215, § 28; G.L. 1923, ch. 251, § 19; G.L. 1938, ch. 124, § 19; G.L. 1956, § 39-7-1; P.L. 1961, ch. 63, § 1; P.L. 1973, ch. 199, § 5.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-7 - Operation of Railroads Generally › Section 39-7-2. - Blocking of frogs, switches, and guardrails.

§ 39-7-2. Blocking of frogs, switches, and guardrails.
Every railroad corporation, operating a railroad or part of a railroad in this state, shall adjust, fill, or block the frogs, switches, and guardrails on its track, with the exception of guardrails on bridges, so as to prevent the feet of its employees from being caught therein. The work shall be done to the satisfaction of the division of public utilities and carriers, evidenced by its certificate. Any railroad corporation failing to comply with the provisions of this section shall be fined an amount not less than one hundred dollars ($100) but not more than one thousand dollars ($1,000).
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 187, § 50; G.L. 1909, ch. 215, § 54; G.L. 1923, ch. 251, § 45; G.L. 1938, ch. 124, § 45; G.L. 1956, § 39-7-2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-7 - Operation of Railroads Generally › Section 39-7-3. - Brakes on passenger cars.

§ 39-7-3. Brakes on passenger cars.
Every railroad corporation whose cars are propelled by steam shall cause a power brake to be attached to every passenger car used for conveyance of passengers, which brake shall be so arranged that it may be put in operation by the engineer when the train is in motion. Every railroad corporation that shall use any passenger car for the conveyance of passengers, without the power brake so applied, shall for every offense be fined one hundred dollars ($100), one-half (½) thereof to the use of the complainant and one-half (½) thereof to the use of the state; but this penalty shall not apply to an incidental conveyance of passengers in freight cars, nor to “dummy cars,” so-called, nor to a passenger car attached to the rear end of a freight train or dummy engine.
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 187, §§ 22, 23; G.L. 1909, ch. 215, §§ 26, 27; G.L. 1923, ch. 251, §§ 17, 18; G.L. 1938, ch. 124, §§ 17, 18; G.L. 1956, § 39-7-3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-7 - Operation of Railroads Generally › Section 39-7-4. - Passenger cars not to be followed by cars loaded with dirt or stone.

§ 39-7-4. Passenger cars not to be followed by cars loaded with dirt or stone.
No car or carriage for the transportation of passengers over any railroad shall be propelled on the railroad when placed between the locomotive and cars loaded with dirt or stone. Every railroad corporation upon whose railroad shall be propelled cars or carriages for the transportation of passengers, so placed, shall be fined five hundred dollars ($500), one-half (½) thereof to the use of the complainant and one-half (½) thereof to the use of the state.
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 187, §§ 20, 21; G.L. 1909, ch. 215, §§ 24, 25; G.L. 1923, ch. 251, §§ 15, 16; G.L. 1938, ch. 124, §§ 15, 16; G.L. 1956, § 39-7-4.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-7 - Operation of Railroads Generally › Section 39-7-5. - Method of illuminating passenger cars — Fire equipment.

§ 39-7-5. Method of illuminating passenger cars — Fire equipment.
No passenger car on any railroad shall be lighted by naphtha or by any illuminating oil or fluid made in part of naphtha, or wholly or in part from coal or petroleum, or other substance or material which will ignite at a temperature of less than three hundred degrees (300 degrees) fahrenheit. Every railroad corporation shall provide and keep in every car used by it for the transportation of passengers one pail, one axe, and one iron bar, which shall at all times be kept in order for use. Every railroad corporation violating the provisions of this section shall be fined one hundred dollars ($100) for each offense, one-half (½) thereof to the use of the complainant, and one-half (½) thereof to the use of the state.
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 187, § 26; G.L. 1909, ch. 215, § 30; G.L. 1923, ch. 251, § 21; G.L. 1938, ch. 124, § 21; G.L. 1956, § 39-7-5.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-7 - Operation of Railroads Generally › Section 39-7-6. - Heating of cars.

§ 39-7-6. Heating of cars.
No passenger, mail, or baggage car, on any railroad in this state, shall be heated by any method of heating by furnace or heater, unless the furnace or heater shall first have been approved in writing by the division of public utilities and carriers; provided, however, that in no event shall a common stove be allowed in a car. Every railroad corporation that shall use any car in violation of the provisions of this section shall be fined one hundred dollars ($100) for every day on which the car shall be used, one-half (½) thereof to the use of the complainant, and one-half (½) thereof to the use of the state.
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 187, § 27; G.L. 1909, ch. 215, § 31; G.L. 1923, ch. 251, § 22; G.L. 1938, ch. 124, § 22; G.L. 1956, § 39-7-6.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-7 - Operation of Railroads Generally › Section 39-7-7. - Water in passenger cars.

§ 39-7-7. Water in passenger cars.
Every railroad corporation shall carry on each passenger car operated by steam a sufficient quantity of good water, with suitable vessels for using the water, and every railroad corporation refusing or neglecting to comply with the requirements of this section shall be fined twenty-five dollars ($25.00).
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 187, § 25; P.L. 1902, ch. 993, § 1; G.L. 1909, ch. 215, § 29; G.L. 1923, ch. 251, § 20; G.L. 1938, ch. 124, § 20; G.L. 1956, § 39-7-7.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-7 - Operation of Railroads Generally › Section 39-7-8. - Ejection of disorderly or nonpaying passengers.

§ 39-7-8. Ejection of disorderly or nonpaying passengers.
If any person behaves in a disorderly manner, or refuses to pay the regular fare, or rides upon the platform of a car after having been told by the conductor or trainperson to go inside the car, the train may be stopped and he or she may be ejected at any regular station on the road; and every person ejecting a passenger under the provisions of this section at any other place than at a regular station shall be fined one hundred dollars ($100).
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 187, § 43; G.L. 1909, ch. 215, § 47; G.L. 1923, ch. 251, § 38; G.L. 1938, ch. 124, § 38; G.L. 1956, § 39-7-8.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-7 - Operation of Railroads Generally › Section 39-7-9. - Approach of railroad junctions or drawbridges.

§ 39-7-9. Approach of railroad junctions or drawbridges.
(a)
Every person driving a locomotive, when approaching any crossing or junction of any two (2) railroads where the rails of one cross or connect with the rails of the other at grade, or when approaching any drawbridge now in use as such, shall stop the locomotive at some point within the distance of five hundred feet (500′) from the crossing, junction, or drawbridge, and before reaching the same, and shall not drive the locomotive over the crossing, junction, or drawbridge, at a greater rate of speed than six miles per hour (6 m.p.h.); provided, however, that the division of public utilities and carriers may grant to any railroad corporation the privilege of crossing the junction or drawbridge without stopping, whenever it determines the same can be done consistently with the public safety.
(b)
Every person violating the provisions of this section shall be fined one hundred dollars ($100); and the railroad corporation in whose employment, or upon whose railroad, the person shall be at the time of committing such offense, shall be fined three hundred dollars ($300).
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 187, §§ 14, 15; G.L. 1909, ch. 215, §§ 17, 18; G.L. 1923, ch. 251, §§ 8, 9; G.L. 1938, ch. 124, §§ 8, 9; G.L. 1956, § 39-7-9.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-7 - Operation of Railroads Generally › Section 39-7-10. - Whistles in vicinity of Hamlet station.

§ 39-7-10. Whistles in vicinity of Hamlet station.
The Providence and Worcester railroad company and its lessees, the New York, New Haven and Hartford railroad company, are hereby forbidden to blow or cause to be blown or permit any of its employees to blow any locomotive signal whistles along its tracks, between the Hamlet Station and the crossing over the Blackstone River next northerly thereof, except in cases of emergency and apparent danger to life and property.
History of Section.
P.L. 1896, ch. 432, § 1; G.L. 1909, ch. 215, § 19; G.L. 1923, ch. 251, § 10; G.L. 1938, ch. 124, § 10; G.L. 1956, § 39-7-10.