reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-54 - Physician Assistants › Section 5-54-11.1. - Inactive list.

§ 5-54-11.1. Inactive list.
A physician assistant licensed to practice who does not intend to engage in the practice of his or her profession during any year, upon written request to the board, may have his or her name transferred to an inactive list, and shall not be required to register annually or pay any renewal as long as he or she remains inactive. Any physician assistant included in the inactive list as provided in this section shall be restored to active status by the administrator upon filing of a written request accompanied by the renewal fee.
History of Section.
P.L. 1998, ch. 364, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-54 - Physician Assistants › Section 5-54-12. - Grounds for refusal to renew, suspension or revocation of certificates.

§ 5-54-12. Grounds for refusal to renew, suspension or revocation of certificates.
The director may, after notice and a hearing, refuse to grant, renew, suspend, or revoke any certificate of licensure or discipline any registrant upon proof that the person is guilty of unprofessional conduct as defined in § 5-54-2.
History of Section.
P.L. 1982, ch. 94, § 2; P.L. 1995, ch. 42, § 1; P.L. 1998, ch. 364, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-54 - Physician Assistants › Section 5-54-12.1. - [Repealed.]

§ 5-54-12.1. [Repealed.]
History of Section.
P.L. 1996, ch. 353, § 2; Repealed by P.L. 2019, ch. 197, § 3, effective July 15, 2019; P.L. 2019, ch. 230, § 3, effective July 15, 2019.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-54 - Physician Assistants › Section 5-54-13. - Procedure for discipline.

§ 5-54-13. Procedure for discipline.
(a)
When a sworn complaint is filed with the board charging a person with being guilty of any of the actions specified in § 5-54-12, the division of professional regulation or the board shall immediately investigate those charges. In the event that investigation reveals reasonable grounds for believing that the applicant or physician assistant is guilty of the charges, and upon the recommendation of the board or the administrator, the director shall fix a time and place for a hearing, and shall cause a copy of the charges together with a notice of the time and the place fixed for the hearing to be served upon the accused at least twenty (20) days prior to the time fixed for the hearing. At the hearing, the accused has the right to appear personally or by counsel or both; to produce witnesses and evidence on his or her behalf; to cross-examine witnesses; and to have subpoenas issued by the administrator of professional regulation. The attendance of witnesses and the production of books, documents, and papers at the hearing may be compelled by subpoenas issued by the administrator which shall be served in accordance with law. At the hearing, the director or his or her designee shall administer oaths that may be necessary for the proper conduct of the hearing. The director of health or his or her designee is not bound by the strict rules of procedure or by the laws of evidence in the conduct of its proceedings but the determination shall be based upon sufficient legal evidence to sustain it. If the accused is found guilty of the charges, the director may refuse to issue a registration to the applicant or may revoke or suspend his or her certificate or discipline the person.
(b)
Upon the revocation or suspension of any certificate, the holder of the certificate shall surrender the certificate to the administrator of professional regulation who shall strike the name of the holder from the register of physician assistants.
History of Section.
P.L. 1982, ch. 94, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-54 - Physician Assistants › Section 5-54-13.1. - Nondisciplinary alternative.

§ 5-54-13.1. Nondisciplinary alternative.
The board may permit a licensee to enter into a nondisciplinary alternative program. All records pertaining to the physician assistant’s participation in the nondisciplinary program shall be confidential and shall not be subject to discovery, subpoena, or public disclosure.
History of Section.
P.L. 1998, ch. 364, § 2; P.L. 2000, ch. 364, § 1; P.L. 2000, ch. 516, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-54 - Physician Assistants › Section 5-54-14. - Grounds for discipline without a hearing.

§ 5-54-14. Grounds for discipline without a hearing.
The director may temporarily suspend the license of a physician assistant without a hearing if the director finds that the evidence in his or her possession indicates that a physician assistant’s continuation in practice would constitute a danger to the public. In the event that the director temporarily suspends the license of a physician assistant without a hearing, a hearing by the board must be held within ten (10) days after the suspension.
History of Section.
P.L. 1982, ch. 94, § 2; P.L. 1998, ch. 364, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-54 - Physician Assistants › Section 5-54-15. - Appeals from board, administrator, or director.

§ 5-54-15. Appeals from board, administrator, or director.
An appeal from any decision or order of the board, administrator of professional regulation, or director of department of health may be taken by any aggrieved party to the superior court in the manner provided for in chapter 35 of title 42.
History of Section.
P.L. 1982, ch. 94, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-54 - Physician Assistants › Section 5-54-16. - Penalty for misrepresentation.

§ 5-54-16. Penalty for misrepresentation.
No person who is not licensed as a physician assistant may use the title of “physician assistant” or “PA” or hold himself or herself out as a physician assistant. Any person who violates the provisions of this section shall be punished by a fine of not less than two hundred dollars ($200) nor more than five hundred dollars ($500), nor more than one year imprisonment, or by both the fine and imprisonment.
History of Section.
P.L. 1982, ch. 94, § 2; P.L. 1995, ch. 42, § 1; P.L. 2019, ch. 197, § 1; P.L. 2019, ch. 230, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-54 - Physician Assistants › Section 5-54-17. - Injunction of violations.

§ 5-54-17. Injunction of violations.
When it appears to the director that any person is violating any of the provisions of this chapter, the director may cause an action to be instituted, commenced in the name of the board, to enjoin that violation in a court of competent jurisdiction and that court may enjoin any person, firm, corporation, or association without regard to whether proceedings have been or may be instituted before the director or whether criminal proceedings have been or may be instituted.
History of Section.
P.L. 1982, ch. 94, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-54 - Physician Assistants › Section 5-54-18. - [Repealed.]

§ 5-54-18. [Repealed.]
History of Section.
P.L. 1982, ch. 94, § 2; Repealed by P.L. 2004, ch. 119, § 2, effective June 26, 2004; P.L. 2004, ch. 152, § 2, effective June 26, 2004.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-54 - Physician Assistants › Section 5-54-19. - Receipts.

§ 5-54-19. 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. 1982, ch. 94, § 2; P.L. 1989, ch. 126, art. 26, § 9; P.L. 1995, ch. 370, art. 40, § 29.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-54 - Physician Assistants › Section 5-54-20. - Enforcement of chapter.

§ 5-54-20. Enforcement of chapter.
The director of the department health shall enforce the provisions of this chapter. The director or his or her authorized agents and the board shall be exempt from providing surety for costs in connection with the commencement of any legal proceedings under this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1982, ch. 94, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-54 - Physician Assistants › Section 5-54-20.1. - Immunity from liability for gratuitous emergency assistance.

§ 5-54-20.1. Immunity from liability for gratuitous emergency assistance.
No person licensed under the provisions of this chapter or members of the same profession licensed to practice in other states of the United States who voluntarily and gratuitously, and other than in the ordinary course of his or her employment or practice, renders emergency medical assistance to a person in need shall be liable for civil damages for any personal injuries resulting from acts or omissions by those persons in rendering the emergency care that may constitute ordinary negligence. The immunity granted by this section shall not apply to acts or omissions constituting gross, willful, wanton negligence or when the medical assistance is rendered at any hospital, physician’s office, or other healthcare delivery entity where those services are normally rendered.
History of Section.
P.L. 1995, ch. 42, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-54 - Physician Assistants › Section 5-54-21. - Severability.

§ 5-54-21. Severability.
The provisions of this chapter are severable and if any of the provisions of this chapter are held unconstitutional by any court of competent jurisdiction, the decision of that court does not affect or impair any of the remaining provisions.
History of Section.
P.L. 1982, ch. 94, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-54 - Physician Assistants › Section 5-54-22. - Continuing medical education.

§ 5-54-22. Continuing medical education.
Every physician assistant licensed to practice within the state shall be required to have satisfactorily completed twenty-five (25) hours of approved continuing medical education annually. The annual period for accumulation of continuing-education hours commences on the first day of October and runs through the last day of September beginning in 1996. Beginning with the annual renewal period commencing the first day of October 1997, the administrator shall not renew the certificate of licensure until satisfactory evidence of the completion of the required continuing medical education is provided to the division.
History of Section.
P.L. 1998, ch. 364, § 2; P.L. 2019, ch. 197, § 1; P.L. 2019, ch. 230, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-54 - Physician Assistants › Section 5-54-24. - Requirements relating to professional conduct.

§ 5-54-24. Requirements relating to professional conduct.
The board shall receive and maintain a confidential file which shall be available to the board to precipitate or aid in their investigations. The information shall also be available to licensed healthcare facilities including health-maintenance organizations in connection with the granting of staff privileges and to the individual physician assistants themselves. The file shall contain the following information:
(1)
Cases of malpractice suits against physician assistants as reported to the board by insurers and self-insurers;
(2)
Cases of malpractice suits that result in allegations being dropped, a dismissal, a settlement, or court judgment or arbitration award adverse to the physician assistant;
(3)
Reports by any hospital or state or local professional medical association/society of disciplinary action taken against any physician assistant. This should also include any resignation of a physician assistant if related to unprofessional conduct as defined in law or any withdrawal of an application for hospital privileges relating to unprofessional conduct;
(4)
Reports by state and federal courts of physician assistants found guilty of a felony;
(5)
Reports by professional review organizations and third-party health insurers of sanctions imposed on a physician assistant;
(6)
The file may contain any other data that the board by reasonable rule or regulation deems appropriate.
History of Section.
P.L. 1998, ch. 364, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-54 - Physician Assistants › Section 5-54-25. - Communication of information among healthcare facilities.

§ 5-54-25. Communication of information among healthcare facilities.
Any licensed healthcare facility, acting by and through its chief executive officer or his or her designee, may upon the request of any other licensed healthcare facility, communicate to the chief executive officer of the requesting facility or his or her designee any and all information available regarding circumstances under which the privileges of any physician assistant were changed as described in § 5-54-23(3). No healthcare facility, chief executive officer, or his or her designee, communicating information under this section, shall have liability arising out of the communication, unless the person making the communication is not acting in good faith.
History of Section.
P.L. 1998, ch. 364, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-54 - Physician Assistants › Section 5-54-26. - Hospital responsibility to take action based upon adverse information received.

§ 5-54-26. Hospital responsibility to take action based upon adverse information received.
(a)
Whenever a hospital receives information from the board pursuant to § 5-54-23(3) that indicates that the privileges of a physician assistant or other healthcare professional have been suspended, revoked, or limited at another hospital, the receiving hospital shall within thirty (30) days initiate a preliminary inquiry into whether the privileges of the affected physician assistant or other healthcare professional at the receiving hospital should be suspended, revoked, or limited, based upon review of the exercise of privileges at the receiving hospital, unless the information indicates that any adverse action with respect to privileges was administrative in character.
(b)
Any hospital receiving information described in subsection (a) may take any one or more of the following courses of action in addition to the action required in subsection (a), any one of which shall discharge its responsibility under this chapter to monitor the qualification and fitness of physician assistants and other healthcare professionals on its medical staff:
(1)
In any case that has been referred to the board, to await final disposition of the board, and to take further action that is consistent with sanctions, if any, imposed by the board;
(2)
In any case in which the matter has resulted in the suspension, revocation, or restriction of privileges at any other hospital, to adopt the factual findings of the other hospital, and to impose the suspension, revocation, or restriction in privileges that the receiving hospital deems appropriate, if any, in light of these factors; or
(3)
In any case, to conduct a formal inquiry, in accordance with applicable procedural requirements, to determine what action, if any, should be taken with respect to the privileges of the physician assistant or other healthcare professional.
(c)
No hospital, or officer, employee, physician assistant, or other healthcare professional associated with these shall be liable to any physician assistant or other healthcare professional for any action taken in accordance with subsection (a) or (b) when the action was made in good faith.
History of Section.
P.L. 1998, ch. 364, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-54 - Physician Assistants › Section 5-54-27. - Participation in disaster and emergency care.

§ 5-54-27. Participation in disaster and emergency care.
A person licensed under the provisions of this chapter or members of the same profession licensed to practice in other states of the United States or members of the same profession credentialed by a federal employer who voluntarily and gratuitously, and other than in the ordinary course of his or her employment or practice, renders emergency medical assistance during an emergency or a state or local disaster may render such care without collaboration as set forth in § 5-54-2(5), or with such supervision as is available.
History of Section.
P.L. 2011, ch. 44, § 2; P.L. 2011, ch. 112, § 2; P.L. 2019, ch. 197, § 1; P.L. 2019, ch. 230, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-54 - Physician Assistants › Section 5-54-28. - Participation in charitable and voluntary care.

§ 5-54-28. Participation in charitable and voluntary care.
A physician assistant licensed in this state, or licensed or authorized to practice in any other U.S. jurisdiction, or who is credentialed by a federal employer or meets the licensure requirements of his or her requisite federal agency as a physician assistant may volunteer to render such care that he or she is able to provide at a children’s summer camp or for a public or community event or in a licensed ambulatory health center providing free care. Such care must be rendered without compensation or remuneration. It is the obligation of the physician assistant to assure adequate and appropriate professional liability coverage.
History of Section.
P.L. 2019, ch. 197, § 2; P.L. 2019, ch. 230, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-55 - Motor Fuel Distribution and Sales › Section 5-55-2. - Legislative findings and purpose.

§ 5-55-2. Legislative findings and purpose.
The legislature finds and declares that the distribution and retail sale of motor fuels at reasonable prices and in adequate supply throughout the state vitally affects the public health, welfare, and safety. It is necessary to define and regulate the relationship between parties to franchise agreements involving the sale or distribution of motor fuels in the state and to prescribe other trade practices.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 324, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-55 - Motor Fuel Distribution and Sales › Section 5-55-5. - Unfair practices.

§ 5-55-5. Unfair practices.
(a)
It is unlawful for any refiner, distributor, producer, or transporter of petroleum products engaged in business in this state, either directly or indirectly, to discriminate in price between purchasers of petroleum products of similar grade and quality.
(b)
Nothing in this section shall prevent differentials that only make allowance for differences in the cost of manufacture, marketing, transportation, sale, or delivery resulting from the different methods or quantities in which the commodities are sold and delivered to the purchasers.
(c)
Nothing in this section shall prevent persons engaged in selling goods, wares, or merchandise in commerce from selecting their own customers in bona fide transactions and not in restraint of trade.
(d)
It is unlawful for any wholesaler or reseller of petroleum products to sell at retail level for less than four cents (4¢) below his or her wholesale price to wholesale accounts who resell at retail in the same market area.
(e)
Nothing in this section applies to the purchase of petroleum products for their own use by state and local agencies.
(f)
The provisions of this section only apply to producers, refiners, or wholesalers whose total production, gasoline refining capacity, or sales volume at the wholesale level is fifteen thousand gallons (15,000 gals.) a day or more.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 324, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-55 - Motor Fuel Distribution and Sales › Section 5-55-6. - Dealer trade associations.

§ 5-55-6. Dealer trade associations.
No supplier shall hinder, coerce, or threaten any dealer for the purpose of preventing him or her from joining any trade association made up of dealers. Dealers have a right to select bargaining agents to negotiate and deal with suppliers on an individual basis on matters having to do with their supplier-dealer relationship. Suppliers shall be obliged to bargain in good faith with selected agents by the dealers. That bargaining activity shall be pursued to the maximum extent permitted by law.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 324, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-55 - Motor Fuel Distribution and Sales › Section 5-55-7. - Statute of limitations.

§ 5-55-7. Statute of limitations.
No action may be brought under this chapter for a cause of action that arose more than two (2) years prior to the date that action is brought.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 324, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-55 - Motor Fuel Distribution and Sales › Section 5-55-8. - Legal and equitable remedies.

§ 5-55-8. Legal and equitable remedies.
(a)
If a franchisor or distributor engages in conduct prohibited under this chapter, a franchisee or a distributor may maintain a suit against that franchisor or distributor. Where that suit involves termination or nonrenewal for good cause, the burden of establishing good cause shall be on the franchisor.
(b)
The court shall grant the equitable relief that is necessary to remedy the effects of conduct prohibited under this chapter, which it finds to exist, including declaratory judgment and mandatory or prohibitive injunctive relief. The court may grant interim equitable relief, and actual and punitive damages where indicated, in suits under this chapter and may, unless the suit is frivolous, direct that costs, reasonable attorney, and expert witness fees be paid by the franchisor, in the event the franchisee prevails.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 324, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-55 - Motor Fuel Distribution and Sales › Section 5-55-9. - Severability.

§ 5-55-9. Severability.
If any provisions of this chapter, or the application of this chapter to any circumstance, is held invalid, the remainder of the chapter, and the application of that provision to other circumstances, shall not be affected.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 324, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-56 - Installers of Individual Sewage Disposal Systems › Section 5-56-1. - License required.

§ 5-56-1. License required.
(a)
It is unlawful for any person to install, construct, alter, or repair, or cause to be installed, constructed, altered, or repaired, any individual sewage disposal system unless he or she has a valid annual license issued by the director of environmental management.
(b)
This section does not apply to a property owner installing, constructing, altering, or repairing an individual sewage disposal system to serve a building he or she occupies or will occupy as his or her intended permanent domicile; provided, that he or she has obtained written permission for that work, and that he or she has obtained the necessary written approval of the director of the plans and specifications for that work prior to the start of any construction.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 299, § 1; P.L. 1978, ch. 131, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-56 - Installers of Individual Sewage Disposal Systems › Section 5-56-2. - Conditions for obtaining an installer’s license.

§ 5-56-2. Conditions for obtaining an installer’s license.
(a)
An application for an installer’s license filled out in its entirety, along with a fee of twenty-five dollars ($25.00), must be submitted to the director.
(b)
The applicant installer must have demonstrated to the director that he or she is capable of installing individual sewage disposal systems in accordance with approved plans and specifications.
(c)
The applicant installer must obtain a passing grade on a written examination given by the director, intended to demonstrate his or her understanding of the rules and regulations, and his or her ability to read and interpret approved plans and specifications for individual sewage disposal systems.
(d)
The applicant installer must demonstrate possession of and ability to properly use a level or transit.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 299, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-56 - Installers of Individual Sewage Disposal Systems › Section 5-56-4. - License not transferable or assignable.

§ 5-56-4. License not transferable or assignable.
Installer’s licenses shall not be transferable or assignable and automatically become invalid upon a change of ownership or upon suspension or revocation.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 299, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-56 - Installers of Individual Sewage Disposal Systems › Section 5-56-5. - Denial, suspension, and revocation of licenses.

§ 5-56-5. Denial, suspension, and revocation of licenses.
(a)
An application for a license may be denied or a license may be suspended or revoked when the director has determined that the operation is not being and/or will not be conducted in a manner prescribed in these regulations.
(b)
When an application for a license is denied or when a license is suspended or revoked, a hearing shall be granted if a hearing is requested, in writing, by the aggrieved applicant within ten (10) days of the denial, suspension, or revocation.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 299, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-56 - Installers of Individual Sewage Disposal Systems › Section 5-56-6. - Expiration and renewal of licenses.

§ 5-56-6. Expiration and renewal of licenses.
(a)
Licenses shall be in effect for a period not to exceed three (3) years following the date of issuance.
(b)
A license shall be renewed upon payment of a renewal fee and the satisfactory completion of any continuing education required by the director.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 299, § 1; P.L. 1996, ch. 273, § 2; P.L. 1996, ch. 291, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-56 - Installers of Individual Sewage Disposal Systems › Section 5-56-7. - Responsibilities, performance, and conduct.

§ 5-56-7. Responsibilities, performance, and conduct.
A licensed installer shall adhere to the following:
(1)
Perform all work in compliance with approved plans and specifications only.
(2)
Report any discrepancies on an approved plan that he or she may note during construction to the director.
(3)
Utilize only quality grade construction materials approved by the director.
(4)
Use only the best construction techniques to provide for the best possible installations.
(5)
Work only under valid plans approved by the director with the approval stamp clearly indicated, and commence work only after completely reviewing the entire approval including the application, the layout plans, all typical specification sheets, and other attachments.
(6)
Adhere to each and every term of approval as stipulated by the director in his or her approval of the particular plan.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 299, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-56 - Installers of Individual Sewage Disposal Systems › Section 5-56-8. - Penalties.

§ 5-56-8. Penalties.
The penalties for noncompliance with any section of this chapter are as stated in § 42-17.1-2 as follows: any person who knowingly and willfully violates any rule or regulation adopted pursuant to authority granted to the director, upon conviction, shall be punished by a fine of not more than five hundred dollars ($500), or by imprisonment for not more than thirty (30) days, or both, for each offense or violation, and each day’s failure to comply with any rule or regulation shall constitute a separate offense.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 299, § 1; P.L. 1978, ch. 131, § 1; P.L. 1996, ch. 273, § 2; P.L. 1996, ch. 291, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-56.1 - Designers of Individual Sewage Disposal Systems › Section 5-56.1-1. - Declaration of intent and purpose.

§ 5-56.1-1. Declaration of intent and purpose.
(a)
Whereas sewage entering individual sewage disposal systems contains bacteria, viruses, other pathogens, and nutrients; and, whereas the sewage may also contain hazardous materials, including, but not limited to, cleaning fluids, paints, hobby supplies, and other hazardous household chemicals; and, whereas improperly designed or defectively installed and failing individual sewage disposal systems may degrade wetlands, groundwater, or surface waters, including drinking water sources; and, whereas the public health, the public welfare, and the environment require protection from pollutants emanating from individual sewage disposal systems; the general assembly establishes licensing requirements and responsibilities for persons involved in certain design and installation activities relating to individual sewage disposal systems.
(b)
The purpose of this chapter is to establish provisions, qualifications, and procedures for licensing persons engaged in the preparation of applications, plans, certifications, and specifications for individual sewage disposal systems, also referred to as “ISDS,” for submittal to the department of environmental management.
History of Section.
P.L. 1996, ch. 273, § 1; P.L. 1996, ch. 291, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-56.1 - Designers of Individual Sewage Disposal Systems › Section 5-56.1-2. - License required.

§ 5-56.1-2. License required.
Beginning one year after issuance of the first designer’s license, all plans, applications, evaluations, and certifications for the siting, location, design, installation, or repair of any individual sewage disposal system submitted to the department of environmental management shall be prepared by a person possessing an appropriate designer’s license issued by the director of the department of environmental management in accordance with rules and regulations promulgated under § 5-56.1-3. The department of environmental management may exempt the repair of individual sewage disposal systems from this requirement.
History of Section.
P.L. 1996, ch. 273, § 1; P.L. 1996, ch. 291, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-56.1 - Designers of Individual Sewage Disposal Systems › Section 5-56.1-3. - Licensing authority.

§ 5-56.1-3. Licensing authority.
The department of environmental management, acting through its director and referred to as “the licensing authority,” shall carry out the functions and duties conferred upon it by this chapter. The licensing authority shall adopt standards, rules, and regulations, pursuant to the administrative procedures act, chapter 35 of title 42, for the administration of the licensing program established under this chapter and related activities.
History of Section.
P.L. 1996, ch. 273, § 1; P.L. 1996, ch. 291, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-56.1 - Designers of Individual Sewage Disposal Systems › Section 5-56.1-4. - Conditions for obtaining a designer’s license.

§ 5-56.1-4. Conditions for obtaining a designer’s license.
(a)
A designer’s license shall be issued to any person who satisfies all the requirements stated below:
(1)
A completed application for a designer’s license along with a reasonable fee shall be submitted to the licensing authority; all fees shall be deposited as general revenues and the amounts appropriated shall be used for the purpose of administering the water-and-air-protection program.
(2)
The applicant for a designer’s license shall be required to pass a written examination, which may include a field component, administered or sanctioned by the licensing authority for the applicable class of license. The test assesses the competency and knowledge of the applicant regarding pertinent subject matter and the application of ISDS regulations.
(3)
The licensing authority shall establish, through regulations, classes of licenses appropriate to the expertise required for each activity performed by licensed individuals. The licensing authority shall establish minimum qualifications, education and experience requirements for each class of license and eligibility requirements for testing. The licensing authority may waive the requirement of a written examination or any portion of it in the case of a person licensed by a federal agency or another state having licensing requirements substantially equivalent to those in Rhode Island.
(4)
With the exception of subsection (b) of this section, no person may be granted an exemption to any of the conditions for obtaining a license as provided for in this section on the basis of past experience or “grandfather” rights.
(5)
The licensing authority shall hold an examination at least once per year.
(b)
Professional engineers who have met all the educational requirements and have been registered and authorized to practice engineering in the state of Rhode Island by the state board of registration for professional engineers shall be deemed to have met all the minimum qualifications, experience, and education requirements for a designer’s license under this section and shall not be required to pass a written examination or to attend or enroll in continuing education programs as a requirement for the granting and renewal of their designer’s license.
History of Section.
P.L. 1966, ch. 273, § 1; P.L. 1996, ch. 291, § 1; P.L. 2019, ch. 179, § 1; P.L. 2019, ch. 239, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-56.1 - Designers of Individual Sewage Disposal Systems › Section 5-56.1-5. - License not transferable or assignable.

§ 5-56.1-5. License not transferable or assignable.
Designers’ licenses shall be issued to natural persons only and are not transferable or assignable.
History of Section.
P.L. 1996, ch. 273, § 1; P.L. 1996, ch. 291, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-56.1 - Designers of Individual Sewage Disposal Systems › Section 5-56.1-6. - Expiration and renewal of licenses.

§ 5-56.1-6. Expiration and renewal of licenses.
(a)
A designer’s license shall be in effect for a period not to exceed three (3) years following the date of issuance.
(b)
A license shall be renewed upon payment of a renewal fee and upon satisfactory completion of any continuing education required by the licensing authority.
History of Section.
P.L. 1966, ch. 273, § 1; P.L. 1996, ch. 291, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-56.1 - Designers of Individual Sewage Disposal Systems › Section 5-56.1-7. - Responsibilities — Performance and conduct.

§ 5-56.1-7. Responsibilities — Performance and conduct.
(a)
A licensed designer shall perform all studies, measurements, evaluations, investigations, data gathering, and other work within his or her licensed area of responsibility required to prepare the applicable submittal for individual sewage disposal systems. Nonlicensed employees or subordinates of a person possessing a designer’s license may assist in the work provided the work is done under the direct supervision of the licensed designer who shall be responsible for the work and shall sign any and all required applications, submittals, and certifications.
(b)
A licensed designer shall witness and inspect the installation of any individual sewage disposal system that he or she designed. The licensing authority may, in accordance with regulation, waive this requirement for good cause, including the designer’s death or incapacity.
(c)
A licensed designer shall certify to the licensing authority that the individual sewage disposal system was installed in conformance with the approved application, plans, specifications, applicable statutes and regulations, and that he or she has witnessed and inspected the installation. Upon the certification, the licensed designer shall be responsible for the installation. The certification shall not be construed to release the installer from liability. The licensed designer shall not be responsible for any negligent act or omission of a user of an ISDS, which causes damage to the ISDS, including altering of site conditions after certification of installation, failing to properly maintain the ISDS, or failing to protect the ISDS from physical disturbance causing damage.
History of Section.
P.L. 1996, ch. 273, § 1; P.L. 1996, ch. 291, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-56.1 - Designers of Individual Sewage Disposal Systems › Section 5-56.1-8. - Denial, suspension, and revocation of licenses — Censure.

§ 5-56.1-8. Denial, suspension, and revocation of licenses — Censure.
(a)
The licensing authority may deny, suspend, or revoke a designer’s license if the person or licensed designer fails to comply with the requirements prescribed in this chapter or any regulation promulgated under this chapter or where the person or licensed designer:
(1)
Provided incorrect, incomplete, or misleading information in obtaining a designer’s license; or
(2)
Demonstrated gross or repeated negligence, incompetence, or misconduct in the representation of site conditions in an application to the department of environmental management, design of an ISDS, or inspection or certification of an installation of an ISDS; or
(3)
Has been convicted of a felony; or
(4)
Failed or neglected to comply with continuing-education requirements established by the licensing authority.
(b)
An action to suspend or revoke a designer’s license pursuant to subsection (a) may not be taken until after the licensed designer has an opportunity to have a hearing before the licensing authority. This hearing shall be held within thirty (30) days of written notice of intent to suspend or revoke the license.
(c)
The licensing authority shall appoint a review panel consisting of five (5) members, at least three (3) of whom shall be licensed designers not employed by the licensing authority, for the purpose of reviewing and hearing disciplinary actions contemplated under subsection (b). The review board shall make recommendations to the licensing authority to suspend or revoke licenses. All final decisions shall be made by the licensing authority.
(d)
Any person aggrieved by the denial of an application for a license pursuant to § 5-56.1-4, or a denial, suspension, or revocation of a license pursuant to this section, may request a formal hearing pursuant to § 42-17.1-2(21) that shall be granted, if requested, in writing by the aggrieved applicant or licensee within ten (10) days of the denial, suspension, or revocation.
(e)
The licensing authority may publicly censure any licensed designer whose license was suspended or revoked.
History of Section.
P.L. 1996, ch. 273, § 1; P.L. 1996, ch. 291, § 1; P.L. 2008, ch. 475, § 16; P.L. 2021, ch. 400, § 16, effective July 13, 2021; P.L. 2021, ch. 401, § 16, effective July 13, 2021.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-56.1 - Designers of Individual Sewage Disposal Systems › Section 5-56.1-9. - Penalties.

§ 5-56.1-9. Penalties.
The penalties for noncompliance with any section of this chapter shall be the same as stated in § 42-17.1-2(22) and chapter 17.6 of title 42.
History of Section.
P.L. 1996, ch. 273, § 1; P.L. 1996, ch. 291, § 1; P.L. 2008, ch. 475, § 16.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-57 - Burglar and Hold-Up Alarm Businesses › Section 5-57-1. - Purpose.

§ 5-57-1. Purpose.
The purpose of this chapter shall be to provide uniform procedures and qualifications throughout this state for the licensing of alarm businesses and the issuance of identification cards to alarm agents and certain other individuals.
History of Section.
P.L. 1977, ch. 248, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-57 - Burglar and Hold-Up Alarm Businesses › Section 5-57-3. - Licensing authority — Creation.

§ 5-57-3. Licensing authority — Creation.
The department of labor and training shall carry out the functions and duties conferred upon it by this chapter and shall be referred to, in that context, as “the licensing authority.”
History of Section.
P.L. 1977, ch. 248, § 1; P.L. 1985, ch. 181, art. 12, § 2; P.L. 2008, ch. 100, art. 33, § 5.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-57 - Burglar and Hold-Up Alarm Businesses › Section 5-57-9. - Licensing authority — Staff.

§ 5-57-9. Licensing authority — Staff.
The director of labor and training has the authority to hire and terminate the clerical and professional personnel, including a chief licensing examiner, to handle daily operations of the licensing authority that are necessary to enable it to fulfill its mandate under the provisions of this chapter. All the expenses shall be paid out of the general fund, and the state controller is authorized and directed to draw his or her orders upon the general treasurer upon receipt by him or her of properly authenticated vouchers signed by the director.
History of Section.
P.L. 1977, ch. 248, § 1; P.L. 1978, ch. 119, § 1; P.L. 1979, ch. 219, § 1; P.L. 1985, ch. 181, art. 12, § 2; P.L. 2008, ch. 100, art. 33, § 5.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-57 - Burglar and Hold-Up Alarm Businesses › Section 5-57-10. - Licensing authority — Seal.

§ 5-57-10. Licensing authority — Seal.
The licensing authority shall have a seal, the form of which the licensing authority shall prescribe.
History of Section.
P.L. 1977, ch. 248, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-57 - Burglar and Hold-Up Alarm Businesses › Section 5-57-11. - Licensing authority — Rules and regulations.

§ 5-57-11. Licensing authority — Rules and regulations.
The authority to promulgate rules and regulations that are reasonable, proper, and necessary to carry out the functions of the licensing authority; to enforce the provisions of this chapter; and to establish procedures for the preparation and processing of examinations, applications, license certificates, I.D. cards, renewals, appeals, hearings, and rulemaking proceedings shall be vested in the licensing authority.
History of Section.
P.L. 1977, ch. 248, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-57 - Burglar and Hold-Up Alarm Businesses › Section 5-57-12. - Licensing authority — Issuance of subpoenas — Contempt powers.

§ 5-57-12. Licensing authority — Issuance of subpoenas — Contempt powers.
(a)
In any investigation conducted under the provisions of this chapter, the licensing authority may issue subpoenas to compel the attendance of witnesses and the production of relevant books, accounts, records, and documents. The officer conducting a hearing may administer oaths and require testimony or evidence to be given under oath.
(b)
If a witness refuses to obey a subpoena or give any evidence relevant to proper inquiry by the licensing authority, the licensing authority may petition a court of competent jurisdiction within the state to compel the witness to obey the subpoena.
History of Section.
P.L. 1977, ch. 248, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-57 - Burglar and Hold-Up Alarm Businesses › Section 5-57-13. - [Repealed.]

§ 5-57-13. [Repealed.]
History of Section.
P.L. 1977, ch. 248, § 1; P.L. 1978, ch. 119, § 1; Repealed by P.L. 1979, ch. 219, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-57 - Burglar and Hold-Up Alarm Businesses › Section 5-57-13.1. - Procedures for adoption of rules.

§ 5-57-13.1. Procedures for adoption of rules.
The licensing authority shall follow the procedures for adoption of rules established by the administrative procedures act, chapter 35 of title 42.
History of Section.
P.L. 1979, ch. 219, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-57 - Burglar and Hold-Up Alarm Businesses › Section 5-57-14. - Alarm business license required — Licensing of electricians.

§ 5-57-14. Alarm business license required — Licensing of electricians.
(a)
It is unlawful and punishable as provided in § 5-57-41 for any person to engage in the alarm business within this state without having first obtained an alarm business license from the state licensing authority, subject to subsection (c) of this section; provided, that nothing contained in this chapter shall be construed to prohibit an electrician licensed pursuant to chapter 6 of this title from installing a burglar or hold-up alarm system; and provided, that no electrician licensed pursuant to this section shall install any burglar or hold-up alarm system in any bank or other financial institution or in any residential housing with four (4) units or less.
(b)
Authority for the licensing of any electrician shall be vested with the department of labor and training which shall:
(1)
After receipt of an application for a license, conduct an investigation to determine whether the facts presented in the application are true and shall receive from the department of the attorney general all records of criminal information that it has or shall receive indicating any criminal activity on the part of the individual signing the application; and
(2)
Deny any application of a person who has been convicted in any jurisdiction of the United States of a felony or a misdemeanor if the licensing authority finds that the conviction reflects unfavorably on the fitness of the applicant to engage in the alarm business.
(c)
Every person desiring to be engaged in the alarm business within this state shall apply to the licensing authority for a license to operate an alarm business. Any person engaged in the alarm business on July 1, 1979, and filing a timely application may continue to engage in the alarm business pending a final determination of the application. Any person not having previous experience in the alarm business and filing as a new applicant who will be the owner or principal officer of the business or branch office in this state shall not engage in the alarm business until approval by the licensing authority of his or her alarm business license and I.D. card applications for himself or herself and his or her employees.
History of Section.
P.L. 1977, ch. 248, § 1; P.L. 1979, ch. 219, § 1; P.L. 1982, ch. 402, § 1; P.L. 1985, ch. 181, art. 12, § 2; P.L. 2019, ch. 308, art. 1, § 24.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-57 - Burglar and Hold-Up Alarm Businesses › Section 5-57-17. - Investigation of license applications.

§ 5-57-17. Investigation of license applications.
After receipt of an application for a license, the licensing authority shall conduct an investigation to determine whether the facts presented in the application are true and shall receive from the department of the attorney general all records of criminal information that it has or receives indicating any criminal activity on the part of the individual signing the application. The department of the attorney general shall also submit the fingerprints of the individual signing the application to the Federal Bureau of Investigation for review. The department of the attorney general shall provide the information subject to the rules and regulations promulgated by the attorney general regarding the production of that information.
History of Section.
P.L. 1977, ch. 248, § 1.