reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-45 - Nursing Home Administrators › Section 5-45-8. - Licensure in other jurisdictions.

§ 5-45-8. Licensure in other jurisdictions.
The department may issue a nursing home administrator’s license without examination, to any person who holds a current license in good standing as a nursing home administrator from another jurisdiction; provided, that the department finds that the individual meets education and experience requirements as established by the department regulation. For purposes of this section, the department shall not disqualify an applicant on the basis that his or her most recent experience was in a management position having direct responsibility for overseeing and directing a number of licensed nursing home administrators, rather than as an administrator of a licensed long-term-care facility.
History of Section.
P.L. 1970, ch. 306, § 1; P.L. 1999, ch. 150, § 1; P.L. 2013, ch. 254, § 1; P.L. 2013, ch. 383, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-45 - Nursing Home Administrators › Section 5-45-9. - Courses of instruction and training.

§ 5-45-9. Courses of instruction and training.
If the department finds that there are not a sufficient number of courses of instruction and training conducted within the state to meet the requirements of this chapter, it may conduct one or more of these courses, and make provisions for those courses and their accessibility to residents of this state. The board of governors for higher education shall cooperate with the department in establishing and conducting those courses.
History of Section.
P.L. 1970, ch. 306, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-45 - Nursing Home Administrators › Section 5-45-10. - Renewal of licenses — Continuing education.

§ 5-45-10. Renewal of licenses — Continuing education.
(a)
Every holder of a nursing home administrator’s license shall renew it every two (2) years by applying to the department on forms provided by that agency.
(b)
Each renewal application shall be accompanied by the fee as set forth in § 23-1-54.
(c)
Beginning January 1, 1996, proof of satisfactory completion of a minimum of forty (40) clock hours of continuing education every two (2) years must be submitted with the renewal application.
(d)
Renewals shall be granted as a matter of course, unless the agency finds the applicant has acted or failed to act in a manner or under circumstances that would constitute grounds for suspension or revocation of a license.
History of Section.
P.L. 1970, ch. 306, § 1; P.L. 1978, ch. 124, § 1; P.L. 1993, ch. 138, art. 71, § 6; P.L. 1994, ch. 91, § 1; P.L. 2001, ch. 77, art. 14, § 18; P.L. 2007, ch. 73, art. 39, § 16; P.L. 2012, ch. 241, art. 9, § 18.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-45 - Nursing Home Administrators › Section 5-45-11. - Penalty for violations.

§ 5-45-11. Penalty for violations.
It is a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of not more than five hundred dollars ($500), or by imprisonment for not more than one year, or both, for any person to:
(1)
Sell or fraudulently obtain or furnish any license or aid or abet in this violation;
(2)
Practice as a nursing home administrator under cover of any license or registration illegally or fraudulently obtained or unlawfully issued;
(3)
Practice as a nursing home administrator, or use in connection with his or her name any designation tending to imply that he or she is a nursing home administrator, unless licensed and registered to practice under the provisions of this chapter;
(4)
Practice as a nursing home administrator during the time his or her license or registration issued under the provisions of this chapter is suspended or revoked; or
(5)
Violate any of the provisions of this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1970, ch. 306, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-45 - Nursing Home Administrators › Section 5-45-12. - Disciplinary proceedings — Grounds for discipline.

§ 5-45-12. Disciplinary proceedings — Grounds for discipline.
(a)
The department may suspend, revoke, or refuse to renew any license issued under this chapter, or may reprimand, censure, or discipline a licensee or may require participation in continuing education or professional mentoring or may place an administrator on probation in accordance with the provisions of this section, upon decision and after a hearing as provided by chapter 35 of title 42, upon proof that the licensee engaged in unprofessional conduct. Unprofessional conduct includes, but is not limited to, any of the following:
(1)
Being unfit or incompetent by reason of negligence, habits, or other causes;
(2)
Violating any of the provisions of this chapter or the rules enacted in accordance with it; or acting in a manner inconsistent with the health and safety of the patients of the nursing facility in which he or she is the administrator;
(3)
Engaging in fraud or deceit in the practice of nursing home administration, or in his or her admission to this practice;
(4)
Being convicted in a court of competent jurisdiction, either within or without this state, of a felony; or
(5)
Failing to conform to minimal standards of acceptable and prevailing practice of nursing home administration.
(b)
If a nursing home administrator is placed on probation, the department may require the licensee to:
(1)
Report regularly to the department on matters that are the basis of the probation;
(2)
Limit practice to the areas prescribed by the department; or
(3)
Complete a prescribed program of continuing professional education until the licensee attains a degree of skill satisfactory to the department in those areas that are the basis of the probation.
History of Section.
P.L. 1970, ch. 306, § 1; P.L. 1997, ch. 61, § 1; P.L. 2005, ch. 157, § 3; P.L. 2005, ch. 249, § 3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-45 - Nursing Home Administrators › Section 5-45-13. - Rules and regulations.

§ 5-45-13. Rules and regulations.
The department is empowered to make any changes in rules and regulations established pursuant to this chapter necessary to conform with federal statutes and regulations relating to the licensure of nursing home administrators.
History of Section.
P.L. 1970, ch. 306, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-45 - Nursing Home Administrators › Section 5-45-14. - Receipts.

§ 5-45-14. Receipts.
The proceeds of any fees collected pursuant to the provisions of this chapter shall be deposited as general revenues.
History of Section.
P.L. 1989, ch. 126, art. 26, § 17; P.L. 1995, ch. 370, art. 40, § 24.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-46 - Automobile Clubs › Section 5-46-1. - Posting of surety bonds.

§ 5-46-1. Posting of surety bonds.
No automobile club, motor club, association, corporation, firm, or person engaged in any trade or business involving contractual reimbursement for towing, fines, accidental injury or death benefits, or engaged in the business of an automobile club, motor club, or traveler’s club, shall issue any contract, policy, agreement, or engage in that business until it has placed upon deposit with the state treasurer the sum of one hundred thousand dollars ($100,000) in cash, securities, or a surety bond. This section shall not apply to any club, corporation, or person who or that has placed upon deposit an equivalent amount in cash or surety bond with the state treasurer or insurance commissioner of any other state, and has placed on record as evidence of that deposit, with the secretary of state, a certified copy of the receipt of that deposit or bond and any renewal of it.
History of Section.
P.L. 1972, ch. 102, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-47 - Wrecking Contractors › Section 5-47-1. - Safeguards at demolition sites.

§ 5-47-1. Safeguards at demolition sites.
Any person, firm, corporation, or other business entity engaged in the demolition of any building or other structure shall provide adequate safeguards for the protection of the general public, and shall be responsible to keep the area of the demolition free from unnecessary debris, and police the area of the demolition each day until the job is completed.
History of Section.
P.L. 1972, ch. 150, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-47 - Wrecking Contractors › Section 5-47-2. - Reimbursements to municipal or volunteer firefighters.

§ 5-47-2. Reimbursements to municipal or volunteer firefighters.
If it is necessary to utilize the personnel and equipment of the municipal fire department or voluntary fire department because of a fire at the demolition site, the person, firm, corporation, or other business entity engaged in the demolition shall reimburse the municipality or the voluntary fire department for the use of the fire equipment and personnel hours required to extinguish the fire.
History of Section.
P.L. 1972, ch. 150, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-48 - Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology › Section 5-48-2. - Board of examiners — Composition — Appointments, terms, and qualifications of members.

§ 5-48-2. Board of examiners — Composition — Appointments, terms, and qualifications of members.
(a)
There exists within the department of health a board of examiners of speech-language pathology and audiology. The board shall consist of five (5) persons who are residents of the state and who have worked within the state for at least one year prior to their appointments.
(1)
Two (2) members shall be speech-language pathologists who have practiced speech-language pathology for at least five (5) years preceding appointment, are currently practicing speech-language pathology, and hold active and valid licensure for the practice of speech-language pathology in this state.
(2)
One member shall be an audiologist who has practiced audiology for at least five (5) years immediately preceding appointment, is currently practicing audiology, and holds active and valid licensure for the practice of audiology in this state.
(3)
One member shall be an otolaryngologist who holds certification by the American Academy of Otolaryngology — head and neck surgery, who is currently practicing otolaryngology, and holds active and valid licensure as a physician within this state.
(4)
One member shall be a representative of the consumer public who is not associated with or financially interested in the practice or business of speech-language pathology or audiology.
(b)
All appointments to the board shall be for the term of three (3) years. Members shall serve until the expiration of the term for which they have been appointed or until their appointed successors are qualified.
(c)
When a vacancy upon the board occurs, the director of the department of health shall, with the approval of the governor, appoint persons who are working within the state to fill the remainder of the vacant term.
(d)
The board shall reorganize annually during the month of January and shall select a chairperson.
(e)
A majority of currently filled positions shall constitute a quorum to do business.
(f)
No person shall be appointed to serve more than two (2) consecutive terms.
(g)
The first board and all future members shall be appointed by the director of the department of health, with the approval of the governor.
(h)
The director of the department of health, with the approval of the governor, may remove any member of the board for dishonorable conduct, incompetency, or neglect of duty.
History of Section.
P.L. 1973, ch. 143, § 1; P.L. 1991, ch. 329, § 1; P.L. 1998, ch. 366, § 1; P.L. 1999, ch. 354, § 14; P.L. 2007, ch. 33, § 1; P.L. 2007, ch. 39, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-48 - Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology › Section 5-48-3. - Board of examiners — Duties and powers — Meetings — Compensation of members.

§ 5-48-3. Board of examiners — Duties and powers — Meetings — Compensation of members.
(a)
The board shall administer, coordinate, and enforce the provisions of this chapter; evaluate the qualifications of applicants; and may issue subpoenas, examine witnesses, and administer oaths, conduct hearings, and at its discretion investigate allegations of violations of this chapter and impose penalties if any violations of the chapter have occurred.
(b)
The board shall conduct hearings and keep records and minutes as necessary to an orderly dispatch of business.
(c)
The board shall, with the approval of the director of the department of health, adopt, amend, or repeal rules and regulations, including, but not limited to, regulations that delineate qualifications for licensure and establish standards of professional conduct. Following their adoption, the rules and regulations shall govern and control the professional conduct of every person who holds a license to practice speech-language pathology or audiology in this state.
(d)
The board shall make available complete lists of the names and addresses of all licensed speech-language pathologists and audiologists.
(e)
The board may request legal advice and assistance from the appropriate state legal officer.
(f)
Regular meetings of the board shall be held at the times and places that it prescribes, and special meetings may be held upon the call of the chairperson; provided, that at least one regular meeting shall be held each year.
(g)
The conferral or enumeration of specific powers in this chapter shall not be construed as a limitation of the general powers conferred by this section. No member of the board shall be liable to civil action for any act performed in good faith in the performance of his or her duties as prescribed by this chapter.
(h)
Board members shall serve without compensation.
(i)
The board may suspend the authority of any registered speech-language pathologist or audiologist to practice speech-language pathology or audiology for failure to comply with any of the requirements of this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1973, ch. 143, § 1; P.L. 1991, ch. 329, § 1; P.L. 1998, ch. 366, § 1; P.L. 2007, ch. 33, § 1; P.L. 2007, ch. 39, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-48 - Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology › Section 5-48-4. - Board examiners — Seal — Authentication of records.

§ 5-48-4. Board examiners — Seal — Authentication of records.
The board shall adopt the state seal by which it authenticates its proceedings. Copies of the proceedings, records, and acts of the board, and certificates purporting to relate the facts concerning those proceedings, records, and acts, signed by the secretary and authenticated by that seal, shall be evidence in all courts of this state.
History of Section.
P.L. 1973, ch. 143, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-48 - Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology › Section 5-48-5. - Receipts.

§ 5-48-5. Receipts.
The proceeds of any fees collected pursuant to the provisions of this chapter shall be deposited as general revenues.
History of Section.
P.L. 1973, ch. 143, § 1; P.L. 1989, ch. 126, art. 26, § 8; P.L. 1995, ch. 370, art. 40, § 25.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-48 - Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology › Section 5-48-6. - Licensure and regulation of speech-language pathologists and audiologists.

§ 5-48-6. Licensure and regulation of speech-language pathologists and audiologists.
(a)
Licensure shall be granted in either speech-language pathology or audiology independently. A person may be licensed in both areas if he or she meets the respective qualifications.
(b)
No person shall practice as, advertise as, or use the title of speech pathologist or audiologist as defined in § 5-48-1 in this state unless he or she is licensed in accordance with the provisions of the laws of the state.
(c)
Registered speech-language pathologists or audiologists may render services under the terms and provisions of the workers’ compensation and rehabilitation laws.
(d)
A provisional license for the clinical fellow (defined in § 5-48-1(b)(4)) shall be required in speech-language pathology for that period of postgraduate professional experience as required in § 5-48-7.1. A provisional license shall authorize an individual to practice speech-language pathology solely in connection with the completion of the supervised postgraduate professional experience.
History of Section.
P.L. 1973, ch. 143, § 1; P.L. 1991, ch. 329, § 1; P.L. 1998, ch. 366, § 1; P.L. 2007, ch. 33, § 1; P.L. 2007, ch. 39, § 1; P.L. 2019, ch. 308, art. 1, § 23.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-48 - Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology › Section 5-48-7. - Qualifications of applicants for a license as a speech-language pathologist.

§ 5-48-7. Qualifications of applicants for a license as a speech-language pathologist.
To be eligible for licensure by the board as a speech-language pathologist the applicant must:
(1)
Be of good moral character;
(2)
Apply to the department, upon a form prescribed by the department;
(3)
Submit the appropriate application fee;
(4)
Submit an official transcript indicating possession of a master’s degree or a doctorate degree or equivalent in speech-language pathology from an educational institution accredited by the Council on Academic Accreditation (CAA) of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) or other national accrediting association as may be approved by the board. The degree shall consist of course work in accordance with the current, minimum requirements for the certificate of clinical competence issued by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) or other national accrediting association as may be approved by the board and delineated in the rules and regulations;
(5)
Complete supervised clinical-practicum experiences from an educational institution or its cooperating programs. The content of the practicum shall be in accordance with the current, minimum requirements for the certificate of clinical competence issued by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) or other national accrediting association as may be approved by the board and delineated in the rules and regulations;
(6)
Pass a national examination in speech-language pathology as required by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) or other national accrediting association as may be approved by the board and delineated in the rules and regulations;
(7)
Present verification of a certificate of clinical competence from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) or other national accrediting association as may be approved by the board; and
(8)
If applicable, present evidence from the board of speech-language pathology in each state in which the applicant has held or holds licensure to be submitted to the board of this state, attesting to the licensure status of the applicant during the time period the applicant held licensure in the state.
History of Section.
P.L. 1973, ch. 143, § 1; P.L. 1991, ch. 329, § 1; P.L. 1998, ch. 366, § 1; P.L. 2007, ch. 33, § 1; P.L. 2007, ch. 39, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-48 - Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology › Section 5-48-7.1. - Qualifications for a provisional license for a speech-language pathologist.

§ 5-48-7.1. Qualifications for a provisional license for a speech-language pathologist.
(a)
To be eligible for provisional licensure by the board, the speech-language pathologist applicant must submit an application with the required application fee and be in compliance with the requirements of § 5-48-7(1), (4), (5), and (6).
(b)
In addition to the requirements of subsection (a) of this section, content of the supervised postgraduate professional experience shall meet the standards of a trainee or fellow of speech pathology as required by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) or other national accrediting association as may be approved by the board.
(c)
If the postgraduate professional experience extends beyond one year, provisional licensure must be renewed annually and not exceed thirty-six (36) months past the initiation of the professional experience.
(d)
The provisional licensure shall expire ninety (90) days after the end of the postgraduate professional experience.
History of Section.
P.L. 1998, ch. 366, § 2; P.L. 2007, ch. 33, § 1; P.L. 2007, ch. 39, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-48 - Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology › Section 5-48-7.2. - Qualifications for license as an audiologist.

§ 5-48-7.2. Qualifications for license as an audiologist.
Persons seeking initial licensure as an audiologist on or after January 1, 2008, shall meet the following requirements:
(1)
Be of good moral character;
(2)
Apply to the board, upon a form prescribed by the board;
(3)
Submit the appropriate application fee;
(4)
Submit an official transcript indicating possession of an earned doctorate degree in audiology from a regionally accredited educational institution as delineated in the rules and regulations;
(5)
Pass a national examination in audiology approved by the board and delineated in the rules and regulations;
(6)
Present evidence of practicum experience that is equivalent to a minimum of twelve (12) months of full-time, supervised experience, that may be completed as part of the graduate degree, as delineated in the rules and regulations;
(7)
If applicable, present evidence from the board of audiology in each state in which the applicant has held or holds licensure to be submitted to the board of this state, attesting to the licensure status of the applicant during the time period the applicant held licensure in the state;
(8)
Any other requirements as set forth in the rules and regulations.
History of Section.
P.L. 2007, ch. 33, § 3; P.L. 2007, ch. 39, § 3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-48 - Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology › Section 5-48-7.3. - Qualifications for audiologists licensed in alternate jurisdictions.

§ 5-48-7.3. Qualifications for audiologists licensed in alternate jurisdictions.
Persons licensed as an audiologist in alternate jurisdictions on or before January 1, 2008, shall meet the requirements of this state that were in effect at the time of initial licensure in the alternate jurisdiction.
History of Section.
P.L. 2007, ch. 33, § 4; P.L. 2007, ch. 39, § 4.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-48 - Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology › Section 5-48-8. - [Repealed.]

§ 5-48-8. [Repealed.]
History of Section.
P.L. 1973, ch. 143, § 1; P.L. 1991, ch. 329, § 1; P.L. 1998, ch. 366, § 1; Repealed by P.L. 2007, ch. 33, § 2, effective June 14, 2007; P.L. 2007, ch. 39, § 2, effective June 14, 2007.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-48 - Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology › Section 5-48-9. - Fees — Late filing — Inactive status.

§ 5-48-9. Fees — Late filing — Inactive status.
(a)
The board may charge an application fee; a biennial license renewal fee payable before July 1 of even years (biennially); or a provisional license renewal fee as set forth in § 23-1-54 payable annually from the date of issue.
(b)
Any person who allows his or her license to lapse by failing to renew it on or before the thirtieth (30th) day of June of even years (biennially), may be reinstated by the board on payment of the current renewal fee plus an additional late filing fee as set forth in § 23-1-54.
(c)
An individual licensed as a speech-language pathologist or audiologist in this state, not in the active practice of speech-language pathology or audiology within this state during any year, may upon request to the board, have his or her name transferred to an inactive status and shall not be required to register biennially or pay any fee as long as he or she remains inactive. Inactive status may be maintained for no longer than two (2) consecutive licensing periods, after which period licensure shall be terminated and reapplication to the board shall be required to resume practice.
(d)
Any individual whose name has been transferred to an inactive status may be restored to active status within two (2) licensing periods without a penalty fee upon the filing of:
(1)
An application for licensure renewal, with a licensure renewal fee as set forth in § 23-1-54 made payable by check to the general treasurer of the state of Rhode Island; and
(2)
Any other information that the board may request.
(e)
[Deleted by P.L. 2015, ch. 141, art. 20, § 9].
History of Section.
P.L. 1973, ch. 143, § 1; P.L. 1978, ch. 66, § 1; P.L. 1991, ch. 329, § 1; P.L. 1993, ch. 138, art. 71, § 8; P.L. 1998, ch. 366, § 1; P.L. 1999, ch. 354, § 14; P.L. 2001, ch. 77, art. 14, § 19; P.L. 2007, ch. 33, § 1; P.L. 2007, ch. 39, § 1; P.L. 2007, ch. 73, art. 39, § 17; P.L. 2012, ch. 241, art. 9, § 19; P.L. 2015, ch. 141, art. 20, § 9.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-48 - Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology › Section 5-48-9.1. - Continuing education.

§ 5-48-9.1. Continuing education.
(a)(1)
On or before the thirtieth (30th) day of June of even years, every person licensed to practice speech-language pathology or audiology within this state shall complete not less than twenty (20) clock hours of continuing education within the preceding two (2) years and be able to present satisfactory evidence of completion to the board.
(2)
Those persons holding licensure in both speech-language pathology and audiology must have completed and have evidence of completion of not less than thirty (30) clock hours of continuing education within the preceding two (2) years.
(b)
Continuing education hours may not be carried over from one renewal period to the next.
(c)
The board at its discretion may extend, reduce, or waive the requirement for continuing education for hardship or other extenuating circumstances as the board deems appropriate.
History of Section.
P.L. 1998, ch. 366, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-48 - Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology › Section 5-48-10. - Persons and practices exempted.

§ 5-48-10. Persons and practices exempted.
The provisions of this chapter do not apply to:
(1)
A qualified person licensed, registered, certified, or credentialed in this state under any other law who is practicing the profession or business for which he or she is licensed, registered, certified, or credentialed, in the setting for which the licensure, registration, certification, or credential pertains and performs services within their authorized scope of practice.
(2)
This chapter specifically excludes those persons who commercially fit and sell hearing aids; provided, that those persons do not receive a separate or additional fee for testing or interpreting tests of hearing; and provided, that those persons do not represent themselves as audiologists as defined in this chapter. This subsection does not preclude remuneration for any other service offered solely in conjunction with the fitting or maintaining of a hearing aid.
(3)
No one shall be exempt under subsection (1) for that portion of his or her time spent as a private practitioner. If he or she performs any work as a speech-language pathologist or audiologist for which a fee may be paid by the recipient of the service as part of a private practice apart from his or her position with the government, a license must be held.
History of Section.
P.L. 1973, ch. 143, § 1; P.L. 1991, ch. 329, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-48 - Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology › Section 5-48-11. - Grounds for suspension or revocation of licenses.

§ 5-48-11. Grounds for suspension or revocation of licenses.
The license of any speech-language pathologist or audiologist may be suspended or revoked by the board upon proof that he or she:
(1)
Fraudulently or deceptively obtained or attempted to obtain a license for the applicant, licensee, holder, or for another;
(2)
Fraudulently or deceptively used a license;
(3)
Altered a license;
(4)
Aided or abetted unlicensed practice;
(5)
Committed fraud and deceit in the practice of speech-language pathology or of audiology, including, but not limited to:
(i)
Using or promoting, or causing the use of, any misleading, deceiving, or untruthful advertising matter, promotional literature, testimonial, guarantee, warranty, label, brand, insignia, or any other representation;
(ii)
Falsely representing the use or availability of services or advice of a physician;
(iii)
Misrepresenting the applicant, licensee, or holder by using the word “doctor” or any similar word, abbreviation, or symbol, if the use is not accurate or if the degree was not obtained from an accredited institution;
(iv)
Making or filing a false report or record in the practice of speech-language pathology or audiology;
(v)
Submitting a false statement to collect a fee; and
(vi)
Obtaining a fee through fraud or misrepresentation;
(6)
Providing services while mentally incompetent;
(7)
Engaging in illegal, incompetent, or habitually negligent practice;
(8)
Providing professional services while:
(i)
Under the influence of alcohol; or
(ii)
Using any narcotic or controlled dangerous substance or other drug that is in excess of therapeutic amounts or without valid medical indication;
(9)
Promoting the sale of devices, appliances, or products to a patient who cannot benefit from these devices, appliances, or products;
(10)
Violating any provision of this chapter, any lawful order given, or rule or regulation adopted by the board or departure from or failure to conform to the current standards of acceptable prevailing practice and code of ethics of speech-language pathology or audiology;
(11)
Being convicted of, or pleading guilty or nolo contendere to, a felony, whether or not any appeal or another proceeding is pending to have the conviction or plea set aside;
(12)
Incompetent or negligent misconduct in the practice of speech-language pathology or audiology;
(13)
Is habitually intemperate or is addicted to the use of habit-forming drugs;
(14)
Being disciplined by a licensing or disciplinary authority of any other state or country, or convicted or disciplined by a court of any state or country, for an act that would be grounds for disciplinary action under this section; or
(15)
Failing to maintain continuing education requirements.
History of Section.
P.L. 1973, ch. 143, § 1; P.L. 1991, ch. 329, § 1; P.L. 1998, ch. 366, § 1; P.L. 2007, ch. 33, § 1; P.L. 2007, ch. 39, § 1; P.L. 2021, ch. 400, § 12, effective July 13, 2021; P.L. 2021, ch. 401, § 12, effective July 13, 2021.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-48 - Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology › Section 5-48-12. - Penalty for violations.

§ 5-48-12. Penalty for violations.
(a)
The board is granted the authority to impose the following disciplinary actions in those instances in which an applicant for a license or a licensee has been guilty of conduct that has endangered, or is likely to endanger, the health, welfare, or safety of the public:
(1)
Refuse to issue or renew a license.
(2)
Issue a letter of reprimand or concern.
(3)
Require restitution of fees.
(4)
Impose probationary conditions.
(5)
Suspend or revoke a license.
(b)
Any person found to be in violation of any provision of this chapter, upon conviction, shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and punished by a fine of not more than one thousand dollars ($1,000).
History of Section.
P.L. 1973, ch. 143, § 1; P.L. 1991, ch. 329, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-48 - Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology › Section 5-48-13. - Revocation and suspension procedure — Reinstatement.

§ 5-48-13. Revocation and suspension procedure — Reinstatement.
(a)(1)
Notice, in writing, of a contemplated revocation or suspension of a license, of this particular cause, and of the date of a hearing, shall be sent by registered or certified mail to the licensee at his or her last known address at least fifteen (15) days before the date of the hearing.
(2)
The individual against whom a charge is filed has the right to appear before the board in person or by counsel, or both; may produce witnesses and evidence on his or her behalf; and may question witnesses.
(3)
No license shall be revoked or suspended without a hearing, but the nonappearance of the licensee, after notice, shall not prevent a hearing.
(4)
All matters upon which the decision is based shall be introduced in evidence at the proceeding.
(5)
The licensee shall be notified, in writing, of the board’s decision.
(6)
The board may make any rules and regulations that it deems proper for the filing of charges and the conduct of hearings.
(b)
After issuing an order of revocation or suspension, the board may also file a petition in equity in the superior court in a county in which the respondent resides or transacts business, to ensure appropriate injunctive relief to expedite and secure the enforcement of its order, pending the final determination.
(c)
An application for reinstatement may be made to the board, which may, upon the affirmative vote of at least the majority of its members, grant a reinstatement.
History of Section.
P.L. 1973, ch. 143, § 1; P.L. 1991, ch. 329, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-48 - Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology › Section 5-48-15. - Severability.

§ 5-48-15. Severability.
If any provision of this chapter or of any rule or regulation made under this chapter, or their application to any person or circumstances, is held invalid by a court of competent jurisdiction, the remainder of the chapter, rule, or regulation, and the application of that provision to other persons or circumstances, shall not be affected.
History of Section.
P.L. 1973, ch. 143, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-48.1 - Patient Protection Act › Section 5-48.1-1. - Legislative findings.

§ 5-48.1-1. Legislative findings.
It is found and declared as follows:
(1)
Individuals and corporations sometimes establish joint ventures and other business arrangements to offer various diagnostic and therapeutic healthcare services and items to patients. While some of these arrangements assist in providing appropriate but unavailable services and items to patients, or help finance nearby facilities as a convenience to patients, others appear to constitute opportunities for investment. These arrangements can give rise to abuse by creating an environment in which healthcare providers could order unnecessary services from those facilities in which they own an interest. To limit this conduct, Congress of the United States amended the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. § 1320a-7b) to prohibit certain financial arrangements. This prohibition is contained in § 1128B(b) of the Social Security Act, 42 U.S.C. § 1320a-7b.
(2)
The provisions of the amendments to the Social Security Act, (42 U.S.C. § 1320a-7b), apply only to Medicare/Medicaid reimbursed services and a void exists with respect to services rendered at the state level, which are reimbursed by private payers.
(3)
Accordingly, in order to protect the health, safety, and welfare of all residents of this state, it is deemed appropriate to adopt the standards prescribed in the federal statute as applicable to the delivery of all healthcare services and items in this state.
History of Section.
P.L. 1993, ch. 107, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-48.1 - Patient Protection Act › Section 5-48.1-2. - Definitions.

§ 5-48.1-2. Definitions.
As used in this chapter:
(1)
“Director” means the director of the Rhode Island department of health.
(2)
“Facility” means any healthcare facility licensed by the department of health or the department of behavioral healthcare, developmental disabilities and hospitals under the provisions of title 23 and title 40.1.
(3)
“Healthcare provider” means any person licensed, registered, or certified by this state to provide, or lawfully providing healthcare services. These include, but are not limited to, a physician, hospital, nursing facility, intermediate-care facility or other healthcare facility, dentist, nurse, optometrist, podiatrist, physical therapist, psychiatric social worker, or psychologist.
(4)
“Healthcare services” means acts of diagnosis, treatment, medical evaluation, or counseling, or any other acts that may be permissible under the healthcare licensing statutes of this state.
(5)
“Person” means any individual, trust or estate, partnership, corporation (including associations, joint stock companies, and insurance companies), state, or political subdivision or instrumentality of a state.
History of Section.
P.L. 1993, ch. 107, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-48.1 - Patient Protection Act › Section 5-48.1-4. - Adoption of regulations.

§ 5-48.1-4. Adoption of regulations.
(a)
All regulations adopted by the Secretary of Health and Human Services specifying payment practices that are not treated as a criminal offense under § 1128B(b) of the Social Security Act, 42 U.S.C. § 1320a-7b(b), and do not serve as the basis for exclusion under § 1128(b)(7) of that Act, 42 U.S.C. § 1320a-7(b)(7), which regulations are in effect as of July, 1991, or which are adopted on or after that date, are deemed to be regulations in this state governing practices that are exempt from the provisions of § 5-48.1-3.
(b)
The director may, by regulation, provide for modification or deviation from the regulations specified in (a) of this section, whether or not this modification or deviation is in accord with the regulations adopted by the Secretary of Health and Human Services.
(c)
The director is authorized to adopt any other regulations he or she deems necessary in order to implement the provisions of this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1993, ch. 107, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-48.1 - Patient Protection Act › Section 5-48.1-5. - Sanctions.

§ 5-48.1-5. Sanctions.
In addition to any penalty provided by this chapter for violation of the provisions of § 5-48.1-3, noncompliance or violation of the provisions of this chapter or the regulations adopted under it shall constitute grounds to revoke or suspend the license of, or discipline, a licensed healthcare provider, or to deny an application for licensure. The appropriate licensing agency or body has authority to take this action against a licensee or applicant in accordance with established procedures.
History of Section.
P.L. 1993, ch. 107, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-48.2 - Professional Licensing and Regulation of Speech-Language Pathologists and Audiologists › Section 5-48.2-1. - Purpose.

§ 5-48.2-1. Purpose.
The purpose of this chapter is to establish and codify prevailing standards and procedures for licensing speech-language pathologists and audiologists in Rhode Island.
History of Section.
P.L. 2023, ch. 221, § 1, effective June 21, 2023; P.L. 2023, ch. 222, § 1, effective June 21, 2023.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-48.2 - Professional Licensing and Regulation of Speech-Language Pathologists and Audiologists › Section 5-48.2-2. - Incorporated materials.

§ 5-48.2-2. Incorporated materials.
This chapter hereby adopts and incorporates the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association’s “American Speech-Language-Hearing Association Code of Ethics” (2016) by reference, not including any further editions or amendments thereof and only to the extent that the provisions therein are not inconsistent with these regulations.
History of Section.
P.L. 2023, ch. 221, § 1, effective June 21, 2023; P.L. 2023, ch. 222, § 1, effective June 21, 2023.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-48.2 - Professional Licensing and Regulation of Speech-Language Pathologists and Audiologists › Section 5-48.2-4. - License requirements.

§ 5-48.2-4. License requirements.
(a)
No person shall practice as, advertise as, or use the title of speech-language pathologist or audiologist unless licensed in accordance with the provisions of the act and this section. The provisions of the act and this section shall not apply to individuals specifically exempt from the provisions thereof by § 5-48-10.
(b)
A provisional license for the clinical fellow as defined in this chapter shall be required in speech-language pathology for that period of postgraduate professional experience as required in §§ 5-48-7 and 5-48.2-5. A provisional license shall authorize an individual to practice speech-language pathology solely in connection with the completion of the supervised postgraduate professional experience.
(c)
Any person residing in and/or licensed in another state who provides telepractice services in the area of speech-language pathology and audiology within the State of Rhode Island regardless of their legal residence must be licensed in the state in accordance with the provisions of the act and this chapter. The provisions of the act and this chapter shall not apply to individuals specifically exempt from the provisions thereof by § 5-48-10.
History of Section.
P.L. 2023, ch. 221, § 1, effective June 21, 2023; P.L. 2023, ch. 222, § 1, effective June 21, 2023.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-48.2 - Professional Licensing and Regulation of Speech-Language Pathologists and Audiologists › Section 5-48.2-5. - Qualifications for licensure.

§ 5-48.2-5. Qualifications for licensure.
(a)
Audiologists.
In addition to the requirements set forth in § 5-48-7.2, persons seeking initial licensure as an audiologist providing in-person or telepractice services shall meet the following requirements:
(1)
Submit an official transcript indicating possession of an earned doctorate degree in audiology from a regionally accredited educational institution or other national accrediting organization as may be approved by the board;
(2)
Pass a national examination in audiology approved by the board;
(3)
Present evidence of practicum experience that is equivalent to a minimum of twelve (12) months of full-time, supervised experience, that may be completed as part of the graduate degree, as delineated in this chapter;
(4)
Applicants with a master’s degree holding licensure from another state must present verification of a Certificate of Clinical Competence from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) or other national accrediting association as may be approved by the board.
(b)
Qualifications for audiologists licensed in alternate jurisdictions.
Persons licensed as an audiologist in alternate jurisdictions on or before January 1, 2008, shall meet the requirements of Rhode Island that were in effect at the time of initial licensure in the alternate jurisdiction.
(c)
Speech-language pathologists.
In addition to the requirements set forth in § 5-48-7, an applicant seeking licensure to practice as a speech-language pathologist who provides in-person or telepractice services in Rhode Island must have attained a master’s degree or a doctoral degree or equivalent in speech-language pathology from an accredited educational institution accredited by the Council on Academic Accreditation (CAA) of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) or other national accrediting association as may be approved by the board. The degree shall consist of course work in accordance with the current minimum requirements for the Certificate of Clinical Competence issued by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) or other national accrediting association as may be approved by the board.
(d)
Qualifications for a provisional license for speech-language pathologists.
To be eligible for provisional licensure by the department, the speech-language pathologist must submit an application with the required application fee and be in compliance with the requirements of this chapter and § 5-48-7.1.
History of Section.
P.L. 2023, ch. 221, § 1, effective June 21, 2023; P.L. 2023, ch. 222, § 1, effective June 21, 2023.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-48.2 - Professional Licensing and Regulation of Speech-Language Pathologists and Audiologists › Section 5-48.2-7. - Denial, suspension, and revocation of license.

§ 5-48.2-7. Denial, suspension, and revocation of license.
The board is authorized to suspend or revoke any license to practice speech-language pathology and/or audiology upon a finding by the board that the person is guilty of conduct as set forth in § 5-48-11, and in addition:
(1)
Violating any provision of the act, any lawful order given, or rule or regulation adopted by the board or departure from or failure to conform to the current standards of acceptable prevailing practice and code of ethics of speech-language pathology or audiology as adopted by the board and as contained in the “American Speech-Language-Hearing Association Code of Ethics” as incorporated in this chapter. The board need not establish actual injury to clients in order to adjudge a speech-language pathologist or audiologist of the above-named conduct.
(2)
The procedure for denial, revocation, or suspension shall be as that set forth in § 5-48-13.
History of Section.
P.L. 2023, ch. 221, § 1, effective June 21, 2023; P.L. 2023, ch. 222, § 1, effective June 21, 2023.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-48.2 - Professional Licensing and Regulation of Speech-Language Pathologists and Audiologists › Section 5-48.2-8. - Support personnel.

§ 5-48.2-8. Support personnel.
(a)
A speech-language pathology assistant (SLPA) for speech-language pathologists shall meet the following requirements:
(1)
Hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university and have successfully completed no less than eighteen (18) hours of graduate credit in the areas of speech-language pathology to include the following:
(i)
Normal processes in speech, language, and hearing three (3) hours;
(ii)
Disorders of speech, language, and hearing nine (9) hours;
(iii)
Equipment, materials, procedures, and data collection used in assessment and/or management of speech, language, and hearing disorders six (6) hours; and
(iv)
Completion of twenty-five percent (25%) of those practicum hours required for professional personnel by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association.
(2)
A speech-language pathology assistant (SLPA) shall be registered at the department and be required to re-register every two (2) years.
(b)
Support personnel for audiologists (audiometric aide) or audiology assistants must meet the following requirements:
(1)
Hold a high school diploma;
(2)
Receive intensive on-the-job training in accordance with the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) or American Academy of Audiology (AAA) guidelines for support personnel by the supervising licensed audiologist prior to providing services. Any subsequent supervising licensed audiologist may require retraining of an audiometric aide or audiology assistant under the supervising licensed audiologist’s supervision.
(3)
Audiometric aides or audiology assistants shall be registered at the department and be required to re-register every two (2) years.
History of Section.
P.L. 2023, ch. 221, § 1, effective June 21, 2023; P.L. 2023, ch. 222, § 1, effective June 21, 2023.