reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-82 - Farmland Preservation Act › Section 42-82-7. - Bonds authorized — Maturity — Certification and execution.

§ 42-82-7. Bonds authorized — Maturity — Certification and execution.
(a)
The general treasurer is hereby authorized and empowered, with the approval of the governor and in accordance with the provisions of this chapter, to issue from time to time bonds in the name and behalf of the state and in amounts that may be specified in an amount not to exceed two million dollars ($2,000,000) from time to time by the governor to be designated as “agricultural lands preservation commission loan of 1981.” Bonds shall be in denominations of one thousand dollars ($1,000) each or multiples thereof, and shall be payable in any coin or currency of the United States which at the time of payment shall be legal tender for public or private debts. Bonds shall bear a date or dates, mature at a time or times not exceeding twenty (20) years from their respective date of issue, bear interest payable semiannually at a rate or different varying rates, be payable at a time or times, at a place or places, be subject to terms of recall or redemption, with or without premium, be in a form with or without interest coupons attached carrying a registration, conversion, re-conversion, transfer, debt requirement, acceleration and other provisions that may be fixed by the general treasurer, with the approval of the governor, upon each issue of the bonds at the time of each issue.
(b)
Whenever the governor shall approve the issuance of bonds he or she shall certify the approval to the secretary of state; the general treasurer shall countersign the bonds and affix the seal of the state. The approval of the governor shall be endorsed on each bond so approved with a facsimile of his or her signature.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 299, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-82 - Farmland Preservation Act › Section 42-82-8. - Agricultural lands preservation fund.

§ 42-82-8. Agricultural lands preservation fund.
The general treasurer is directed to deposit the proceeds of the sale of the bonds including any premium or premiums and any accrued interest which may be received from the sale of the bonds, in one or more of the depositories in which the funds of the state may be lawfully kept, in the amount to be known as “agricultural lands preservation fund” to be used as follows:
(1)
For the purposes of § 42-82-5;
(2)
As prescribed in § 42-82-12 in the case of premiums or accrued interest; and
(3)
In the event that the amount received from the sale of the bonds exceeds the amount necessary for the planning for or purchase of development rights to farmland, the surplus shall be used to the extent possible to retire the bonds as they may become due.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 299, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-82 - Farmland Preservation Act › Section 42-82-9. - Temporary notes.

§ 42-82-9. Temporary notes.
(a)
The general treasurer is authorized and empowered, with the approval of the governor, and in accordance with provisions of this chapter, to borrow upon temporary notes issued in anticipation of the issuance of the bonds, from time to time, in the name and behalf of the state, sums of money for the purposes set forth in §§ 42-82-4 and 42-82-5.
(b)
The notes shall be signed by the general treasurer and countersigned by the secretary of state and shall be issued at a time or times in any amounts, at any rates of interest, with any provisions of prepayment, with or without premium, acceleration, and other terms that may be fixed by the general treasurer, with the approval of the governor.
(c)
The notes may be issued from time to time for periods not exceeding two (2) years and may be refunded or renewed from time to time by the issue of other notes for periods not exceeding two (2) years, but the notes, including all refundings and renewals, shall bear maturity dates not later than five (5) years from the date of each original issue. The total sum of the terms of the notes plus the term of the bonds, which the issuance of the notes anticipate, shall not exceed twenty-five (25) years in duration.
(d)
The proceeds of the sale of the notes, inclusive of any premiums and any accrued interest which may be received from the sale of the notes, shall be applied to the purposes for which the notes are issued and shall be deposited by the general treasurer in the account described in § 42-82-8.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 299, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-82 - Farmland Preservation Act › Section 42-82-10. - Advances from general fund in anticipation of the issue of notes or bonds.

§ 42-82-10. Advances from general fund in anticipation of the issue of notes or bonds.
The general treasurer is authorized from time to time, with the approval of the governor, in the anticipation of the issue of notes or bonds under the authority of this chapter, to advance to the fund to be used for the purposes specified in § 42-82-8, any funds of the state not specifically held for any purpose; provided, however, that all of the advances shall be returned to the general fund upon the receipt by the fund of proceeds from the issue of notes or bonds.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 299, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-82 - Farmland Preservation Act › Section 42-82-11. - Bonds and notes tax exempt general obligation of state.

§ 42-82-11. Bonds and notes tax exempt general obligation of state.
All bonds and notes issued under the authority of this chapter shall be exempt from taxation in the state and shall be general obligations of the state, and the full faith and credit of the state are hereby pledged for the due payment of the principal and the interest on each bond and note as the principal and interest shall become due.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 299, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-82 - Farmland Preservation Act › Section 42-82-12. - Terms and conditions of sales — Applications of premiums and accrued interest — Validity not affected by change in office.

§ 42-82-12. Terms and conditions of sales — Applications of premiums and accrued interest — Validity not affected by change in office.
(a)
Any bond or note issued under the authority of this chapter shall be sold from time to time at not less than the principal amount of the bond or note on any terms and conditions as the general treasurer, with the approval of the governor, shall deem to be for the best interest of the state. The purchaser of any bond or note shall pay accrued interest to the date of delivery of the bond or note.
(b)
Any premium or accrued interest which may be received as the result of the sale of the bonds or notes shall be applied to the payment of debt service costs.
(c)
Any bonds or notes issued under the provisions of this chapter and coupons on any bonds, if properly executed by the manual or facsimile signature, as the case may be, of officers of the state in office on the date of execution shall be valid and binding according to their tenor, notwithstanding that before the delivery of bonds, notes or coupons and payment for these, any or all officers shall for any reason have ceased to hold office.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 299, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-82 - Farmland Preservation Act › Section 42-82-13. - Investment of receipt pending expenditures.

§ 42-82-13. Investment of receipt pending expenditures.
All moneys in the fund not immediately required for payment pursuant to the provisions of this chapter may be invested by the state investment commission, as established by chapter 10 of title 35, pursuant to the provisions of that chapter; provided, however, that the securities in which the fund is invested shall remain a part of the funds as shall other securities for which the investment may from time to time, pursuant to that chapter, be exchanged; and provided, further, that the income from that investment shall become part of the fund, and shall be used to the extent possible to pay debt service costs.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 299, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-82 - Farmland Preservation Act › Section 42-82-14. - Amortization.

§ 42-82-14. Amortization.
For the purpose of paying any expenses incurred by the general treasurer in the issuance of the bonds or notes under the authority of this chapter, and any interest and any principal becoming payable from time to time on the bonds or notes issued under the authority of this chapter and then outstanding, the state controller is hereby authorized and directed to draw his or her orders upon the general treasurer for the payment of the expenses, interest, and principal out of the fund. In the event that the amount available in the fund is not sufficient for this purpose, a sum sufficient is hereby annually appropriated out of any money in the treasury not otherwise appropriated for the payment of the expenses, interest, and principal.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 299, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-82 - Farmland Preservation Act › Section 42-82-16. - Charges for utility extension.

§ 42-82-16. Charges for utility extension.
(a)
No city, town, quasi-municipal corporation or public corporation may assess the owner of an agricultural operation having frontage on a public roadway for the extension of water and sewer utilities past the property.
(b)
The owner of the agricultural operation may only be charged if the owner has requested the utility extension. The agricultural operation may tie into any utility extension made past that property for the normal cost of tie-in and no cost for the infrastructure improvement except for its base usable charge. The protection afforded by this section shall be null and void and the assessments made if the owner of the agricultural operation develops or sells to other than a qualifying agricultural operation the property or farmland within twenty (20) years of the date the utility extensions were operational.
History of Section.
P.L. 1994, ch. 132, § 2; G.L. 1956, § 42-82-17.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-82 - Farmland Preservation Act › Section 42-82-17. - Severability.

§ 42-82-17. Severability.
If any provisions of this chapter or of any rule, regulation or order made under this chapter, or the application of this chapter to any person or circumstances, is held invalid by a court of competent jurisdiction, the remainder of this chapter, rule, regulation or order, and the application of that provision to other persons or circumstances shall not be affected. The invalidity of any section or sections or parts of any section or sections of this chapter shall not affect the validity of the remainder of this chapter, and it is declared to be the legislative intent that this chapter would have been enacted if those invalid parts had not been included in this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 299, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 42-82-16.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-83 - American and Polish Cultural Exchange Commission › Section 42-83-1. - Commission established.

§ 42-83-1. Commission established.
There shall be an American and Polish cultural exchange commission to consist of nine (9) members, all of whom shall be American citizens descended from Polish ancestry and residents of the state, three (3) of whom shall be appointed by the speaker of the house of representatives, three (3) of whom shall be appointed by the president of the senate and three (3) of whom shall be appointed by the governor. The commission shall establish, maintain, and develop cultural ties between Polish and American people; foster a special interest in the historical and cultural background of both groups, as well as the social and artistic life of the countries involved; and shall help establish or promote Polish language programs in the schools of the state.
History of Section.
P.L. 1982, ch. 120, § 1; P.L. 2001, ch. 180, § 118.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-83 - American and Polish Cultural Exchange Commission › Section 42-83-2. - Terms of office.

§ 42-83-2. Terms of office.
The members shall be appointed for terms of three (3) years except that, of the three (3) members originally appointed by each of the appointing authorities, one shall be appointed for a term of one year, one shall be appointed for a term of two (2) years and one for a term of three (3) years. The members shall annually elect one of them as chairperson of the commission.
History of Section.
P.L. 1982, ch. 120, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-83 - American and Polish Cultural Exchange Commission › Section 42-83-3. - Authority to accept grants.

§ 42-83-3. Authority to accept grants.
In addition to any of its other powers and responsibilities, the commission is authorized and empowered to accept any grants made available by the United States government or any agency of the United States government, and the commission, with the approval of the governor, is authorized and empowered to perform such acts and enter into all necessary contracts and agreements with the United States of America or any agency of the United States government that may be necessary in any manner and degree that shall be deemed to be in the best interest of the state. The proceeds of grants received shall be paid to the general treasurer of the state and by him or her deposited in a separate fund and shall be utilized for the purposes of the grants.
History of Section.
P.L. 1991, ch. 118, § 4.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-84 - Forms Management Center Act › Section 42-84-1. - Legislative purpose.

§ 42-84-1. Legislative purpose.
The general assembly recognizes the need to create a forms management center to review and redesign forms used in state government. The goals are to eliminate duplication and reduce the total number of forms. In addition, the center will train state agency staff in the use of forms and in form design, as well as actually procuring state forms and promoting interagency standardization and use of forms. The results can be increased efficiency and considerable cost savings.
History of Section.
P.L. 1982, ch. 371, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-84 - Forms Management Center Act › Section 42-84-3. - Forms management center established.

§ 42-84-3. Forms management center established.
The director of the department of administration shall establish an activity within the department to be known as the “forms management center” for the coordination, orderly design, implementation and maintenance of a statewide forms management program.
History of Section.
P.L. 1982, ch. 371, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-84 - Forms Management Center Act › Section 42-84-4. - Powers and duties.

§ 42-84-4. Powers and duties.
The director, through the forms management center, shall:
(1)
Coordinate a forms management program for all state agencies and educational institutions and provide assistance in establishing internal and external forms management capabilities;
(2)
Study, develop, coordinate, and initiate forms of interagency and common administrative usage, and establish basic state design and specification criteria to effect the standardization of state forms;
(3)
Provide assistance to state agencies and educational institutions for economical forms design and forms art work composition and establish and supervise control procedures to prevent the undue creation and reproduction of state forms;
(4)
Provide assistance, training, and instruction in forms management techniques to state agencies and educational institutions forms management representatives and departmental forms coordinators, and provide direct administrative and forms management assistance to new state organizations or institutions as they are created;
(5)
Maintain a central cross index of state forms to facilitate the standardization of these forms, to eliminate redundant forms, and to provide a central source of forms usage and availability information;
(6)
Utilize appropriate procurement techniques to take advantage of competitive bidding, consolidated orders, and contract procurement of forms, and work directly with the public printer toward more efficient, economical and timely procurement receipt, storage and distribution of state forms;
(7)
Coordinate the forms management program with the existing state archives and records management program to insure timely disposition of outdated forms and related records;
(8)
Conduct periodic evaluation of the effectiveness of the overall forms management program and the forms management practices of the individual state educational institutions and state agencies, and maintain records, which indicate net dollar savings which have been realized through centralized forms management;
(9)
Enter into agreements which delegate implementing action to state agencies or educational institutions where the mutually developed arrangements will result in the most timely and economical method of accomplishing the responsibilities set forth in this section; and
(10)
Develop and promulgate rules and standards to implement the overall purposes of this section.
History of Section.
P.L. 1982, ch. 371, § 1; P.L. 1987, ch. 437, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-84 - Forms Management Center Act › Section 42-84-5. - Forms management representative.

§ 42-84-5. Forms management representative.
All educational institutions and agencies of the state shall cooperate with and support the development and implementation of the statewide forms management program. To assist in the coordination and implementation of the forms management program, each state educational institution and agency shall appoint a forms management representative.
History of Section.
P.L. 1982, ch. 371, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-84 - Forms Management Center Act › Section 42-84-6. - Reports required.

§ 42-84-6. Reports required.
On or before December 31 of each year, the director shall submit to the governor, the lieutenant governor, the speaker of the house, the president of the senate, and the auditor general a report concerning forms management, which shall include, but need not be limited to, the following:
(1)
A detailed statement of the activities and accomplishments of the forms management center during the preceding year;
(2)
The director’s assessment of the effectiveness of the forms management center in carrying out the duties specified in § 42-84-4; and
(3)
The director’s recommendations for administrative action, legislation, and/or executive orders as are necessary or desirable to implement the goals of forms management as set forth in § 42-84-1. The recommendations shall include the director’s recommendation as to whether the activities of the forms management center should be expanded, modified, or transferred.
History of Section.
P.L. 1985, ch. 168, § 2; P.L. 1987, ch. 437, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 42-84-7; P.L. 2001, ch. 180, § 119.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-84 - Forms Management Center Act › Section 42-84-7. - Severability.

§ 42-84-7. Severability.
If any provision of this chapter or of any rule or regulation made under this chapter, or the application of this chapter to any person or circumstance, 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. The invalidity of any section or sections or parts of any section or sections of this chapter shall not affect the validity of the remainder of the chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1982, ch. 371, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 42-84-6.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-87 - Civil Rights of People with Disabilities › Section 42-87-1.2. - Qualification standards.

§ 42-87-1.2. Qualification standards.
A covered entity shall not use qualification standards, employment tests, or other selection criteria based on an individual’s uncorrected vision unless the standard, test, or other selection criteria, as used by the covered entity, is shown to be job-related for the position in question and consistent with business necessity.
History of Section.
P.L. 2009, ch. 96, § 8; P.L. 2009, ch. 97, § 8.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-87 - Civil Rights of People with Disabilities › Section 42-87-2. - Discrimination prohibited.

§ 42-87-2. Discrimination prohibited.
No otherwise qualified person with a disability shall, solely by reason of his or her disability, be subject to discrimination by any person or entity doing business in the state; nor shall any otherwise qualified person with a disability be excluded from participation in or denied the benefits of any program, activity or service of, or, by any person or entity regulated, by the state or having received financial assistance from the state or under any program or activity conducted by the state, its agents or any entity doing business with the state.
History of Section.
P.L. 1983, ch. 271, § 1; P.L. 1994, ch. 234, § 1; P.L. 1997, ch. 150, § 18.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-87 - Civil Rights of People with Disabilities › Section 42-87-4. - Civil liability.

§ 42-87-4. Civil liability.
(a)
Any person with a disability who is the victim of discrimination prohibited by this chapter may bring an action in the superior court against the person or entity causing the discrimination for equitable relief, compensatory and/or punitive damages or for any other relief that the court deems appropriate.
(b)
No person with a disability whose action for discrimination is otherwise within the jurisdiction of the commission for human rights under chapter 5 of title 28, chapter 24 of title 11 or chapter 37 of title 34 may bring an action under this section, unless the commission for human rights has failed to act upon that person’s complaint within sixty (60) days of filing, or the commission has issued a final order on the complaint.
History of Section.
P.L. 1983, ch. 271, § 1; P.L. 1988, ch. 144, § 1; P.L. 1997, ch. 150, § 18.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-88 - The J. Howard Mcgrath Judicial Complex › Section 42-88-1. - J. Howard McGrath Judicial Complex.

§ 42-88-1. J. Howard McGrath Judicial Complex.
The new Rhode Island judicial complex, to be located on Tower Hill Road in the town of South Kingstown, shall be named the “J. Howard McGrath Judicial Complex”.
History of Section.
P.L. 1984, ch. 1, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-89 - The Frank Licht Judicial Complex › Section 42-89-1. - Providence County Court House.

§ 42-89-1. Providence County Court House.
The Providence County Court House shall be named and known as the “Frank Licht Judicial Complex”.
History of Section.
P.L. 1985, ch. 132, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-90 - Disclosure of Names of State Government Consultants › Section 42-90-1. - Public disclosure required.

§ 42-90-1. Public disclosure required.
(a)
All departments, commissions, boards, councils, other agencies in the government of the state and public corporations shall annually prepare and submit to the budget office by October 1 a list containing:
(1)
The name of any person privatization contractor, or vendor who performed legal, medical, accounting, engineering, or any other professional, technical or consultant service to the department, commission, board, council, agency or public corporation on a contractual basis during the previous fiscal year; and
(2)
The amount of compensation received by each consultant during the previous fiscal year.
(b)
All departments, commissions, boards, councils, other agencies in the government of the state and public corporations shall prepare and submit to the budget office on an annual basis by October 1 a contracting report containing:
(1)
Digital/Electronic copies of all contracts or agreements by which a nongovernmental person or entity agrees with the department, commission, board, council, agency or public corporation to provide services, valued at one hundred fifty thousand dollars ($150,000) or more, which are substantially similar to and in replacement of work normally performed by an employee of the department, commission, board, council, agency or public corporation.
(2)
[Deleted by P.L. 2014, ch. 145, art. 9, § 4].
(c)
The budget office shall post electronic/digital copies of all contracts and reports online using the state’s transparency portal or an equivalent website, available for public inspection, annually no later than December 1 of each year.
History of Section.
P.L. 1985, ch. 160, § 1; P.L. 2006, ch. 172, § 2; P.L. 2006, ch. 646, § 2; P.L. 2009, ch. 332, § 1; P.L. 2014, ch. 145, art. 9, § 4.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-91 - Small Business Advocacy Council › Section 42-91-1. - Creation of council.

§ 42-91-1. Creation of council.
There is created and established a “small business advocacy council”, hereinafter referred to as the “council”.
History of Section.
P.L. 1985, ch. 189, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-91 - Small Business Advocacy Council › Section 42-91-3. - Purpose and duties.

§ 42-91-3. Purpose and duties.
(a)
The purpose of the council shall be to develop those specific and comprehensive recommendations for executive and legislative action as may be necessary and proper to maintain and encourage the continued viability of small businesses in the state. To enable it to carry out that purpose, the council shall study the following matters and any others it deems appropriate:
(1)
The problems and needs of small businesses.
(2)
The role of small businesses in creating jobs, and what will assist small businesses in carrying out that role.
(3)
The status of women and minorities as small business owners.
(4)
The rules and regulations of the various departments, boards, and agencies of state and local government that affect small businesses.
(5)
The policies, practices, and procedures of governmental bodies in dealing with small businesses.
(6)
The communication of information concerning state and federal programs that may provide assistance to small businesses.
(7)
The promotion of a continuing dialogue between government and small business.
(b)
The council is empowered to appoint subcommittees to study specialized areas of concern and to report their findings to the council.
(c)
The council is empowered to seek the advice and assistance of the United States Small Business Association, the United States Small Business Development Center, members of local small business associations, and members of small business councils of chambers of commerce.
(d)
All departments, boards, and agencies of the state shall cooperate with the council and furnish any advice and information, documentary and otherwise, that may be necessary or desirable to facilitate the purposes of this chapter.
(e)
The council shall:
(1)
Advise the ombudsman established pursuant to § 42-35.1-5 on matters of concern to small businesses relating to the enforcement activities of agencies;
(2)
Report to the ombudsman on substantiated instances of enforcement actions of agencies against small business concerns including any findings or recommendations of the council as to agency enforcement policies or practices;
(3)
Prior to publication, provide comment on the annual report of the ombudsman prepared under § 42-35.1-3.
History of Section.
P.L. 1985, ch. 189, § 1; P.L. 1987, ch. 608, § 1; P.L. 2009, ch. 229, § 2; P.L. 2009, ch. 230, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-91 - Small Business Advocacy Council › Section 42-91-4. - Reports.

§ 42-91-4. Reports.
The council shall serve as a continuing advisory body and shall report its recommendations to the governor and general assembly from time to time, together with drafts of legislation necessary to carry out the recommendations; provided, however, that the council shall file an annual report on or before January 30 each year with the governor and the general assembly.
History of Section.
P.L. 1985, ch. 189, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-92 - Equal Access to Justice for Small Businesses and Individuals › Section 42-92-1. - Purpose.

§ 42-92-1. Purpose.
(a)
It is declared that both the state and its municipalities and their respective various agencies possess a tremendous power in their ability to affect the individuals and businesses they regulate or otherwise affect directly. The legislature further finds that the abilities of agencies to determine benefits, impose fines, suspend or revoke licenses, or to compel or restrict activities imposes a great, and to a certain extent, unfair, burden upon individuals and small businesses in particular. The legislature further finds that this situation often tempts state agencies to proceed against individuals or small businesses which are least able to contest the agency’s actions, and that often results in actions other than those which are in the best interest of the public.
(b)
The legislature further finds that by contesting an unjust agency action and prevailing, the individual or small business often performs an important service to the public because it compels the agency to enforce the laws of this state and respective municipalities as they were written by the elected representatives of this state or the respective municipalities. Therefore, in order to encourage individuals and small businesses to contest unjust actions by the state and/or municipal agencies, the legislature hereby declares that the financial burden borne by these individuals and small businesses should be, in all fairness, subject to state and/or municipal reimbursement of reasonable litigation expenses when the individual or small business prevails in contesting an agency action, which was without substantial justification.
History of Section.
P.L. 1985, ch. 215, § 1; P.L. 1994, ch. 201, § 1; P.L. 1994, ch. 376, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-92 - Equal Access to Justice for Small Businesses and Individuals › Section 42-92-2. - Definitions.

§ 42-92-2. Definitions.
As used in this chapter:
(1)
“Adjudicative officer” means the deciding official, without regard to whether the official is designated as an administrative law judge, a hearing officer or examiner, or otherwise, who presided at the adversary adjudication.
(2)
“Adjudicatory proceedings” means any proceeding conducted by, or on behalf of, the state, administratively or quasi-judicially, which may result in the loss of benefits; the imposition of a fine; the adjustment of a tax assessment; the denial, suspension, or revocation of a license or permit; or which may result in the compulsion or restriction of the activities of a party. Any agency charged by statute with investigating complaints shall be deemed to have substantial justification for the investigation and for the proceedings subsequent to the investigation.
(3)
“Agency” means any state and/or municipal board, commission, council, department, or officer, other than the legislature or the courts, authorized by law to make rules or to determine contested cases; to bring any action at law or in equity, including, but not limited to, injunctive and other relief; or to initiate criminal proceedings. This shall include contract boards of appeal, tax proceedings, and employment security administrative proceedings.
(4)
“Municipality” means the individual cities and towns in the state of Rhode Island and including, but not limited to, any city or town housing authority, fire, water, sewer district, local or regional school district, public building authority, or other municipal financed agency or department.
(5)
“Party” means any individual whose net worth is less than five hundred thousand dollars ($500,000) at the time the adversary adjudication was initiated; and, any individual, partnership, corporation, association, or private organization doing business and located in the state, which is independently owned and operated, not dominant in its field, and which employs one hundred (100) or fewer persons at the time the adversary adjudication was initiated.
(6)
“Reasonable litigation expenses” means those expenses which were reasonably incurred by a party in adjudicatory proceedings, including, but not limited to, attorney’s fees, witness fees of all necessary witnesses, and other costs and expenses as were reasonably incurred, except that:
(i)
The award of attorney’s fees may not exceed one hundred fifty dollars ($150) per hour, unless the court determines that special factors justify a higher fee;
(ii)
No expert witness may be compensated at a rate in excess of the highest rate of compensation for experts paid by this state.
(7)
“Substantial justification” means that the initial position of the agency, as well as the agency’s position in the proceedings, has a reasonable basis in law and fact.
History of Section.
P.L. 1985, ch. 215, § 1; P.L. 1994, ch. 201, § 1; P.L. 1994, ch. 376, § 1; P.L. 2001, ch. 280, § 2; P.L. 2016, ch. 77, § 1; P.L. 2016, ch. 81, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-92 - Equal Access to Justice for Small Businesses and Individuals › Section 42-92-3. - Award of reasonable litigation expenses.

§ 42-92-3. Award of reasonable litigation expenses.
(a)
Whenever the agency conducts an adjudicatory proceeding subject to this chapter, the adjudicative officer shall award to a prevailing party reasonable litigation expenses incurred by the party in connection with that proceeding. The adjudicative officer will not award fees or expenses if he or she finds that the agency was substantially justified in actions leading to the proceedings and in the proceeding itself. The adjudicative officer may, at his or her discretion, deny fees or expenses if special circumstances make an award unjust. The award shall be made at the conclusion of any adjudicatory proceeding, including, but not limited to, conclusions by a decision, an informal disposition, or termination of the proceeding by the agency. The decision of the adjudicatory officer under this chapter shall be made a part of the record and shall include written findings and conclusions. No other agency official may review the award.
(b)
If a court reviews the underlying decision of the adversary adjudication, an award for fees and other expenses shall be made by that court in accordance with the provisions of this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1985, ch. 215, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-92 - Equal Access to Justice for Small Businesses and Individuals › Section 42-92-4. - Procedures.

§ 42-92-4. Procedures.
Any agency authorized to conduct an adjudicatory proceeding shall, by rule, establish uniform procedures for the submission and consideration of applications for an award under this section. Claimants must be given at least thirty (30) days to apply.
History of Section.
P.L. 1985, ch. 215, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-92 - Equal Access to Justice for Small Businesses and Individuals › Section 42-92-5. - Appeal.

§ 42-92-5. Appeal.
Any party dissatisfied with the fee determination by the adjudicatory officer may appeal to the court having jurisdiction to review the merits of the underlying decision of the agency adversary adjudication. If the court grants the petition, it may modify the fee determination if it finds that the failure to make an award, or the calculation of the amount of the award, was not substantially justified based upon a de novo review of the record.
History of Section.
P.L. 1985, ch. 215, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-92 - Equal Access to Justice for Small Businesses and Individuals › Section 42-92-6. - Payment of award.

§ 42-92-6. Payment of award.
Notwithstanding any other provisions of the general or public laws, fees and other expenses awarded under this chapter shall be paid by the agency from any sums available to the agency. No amounts shall be appropriated to the agency specifically for the purpose of paying fees and other expenses awarded under this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1985, ch. 215, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-92 - Equal Access to Justice for Small Businesses and Individuals › Section 42-92-7. - Precedence.

§ 42-92-7. Precedence.
This chapter is intended to supplement the provisions of chapter 35 of this title. In the event of any conflict between the provisions of this chapter and those of chapter 35 of this title, the provisions of chapter 35 of this title shall control.
History of Section.
P.L. 1985, ch. 215, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-92 - Equal Access to Justice for Small Businesses and Individuals › Section 42-92-8. - Severability.

§ 42-92-8. Severability.
If any clause, sentence, paragraph, section, or part of this chapter shall be adjudged by any court of competent jurisdiction to be invalid, the judgment shall not affect, impair, or invalidate the remainder of this chapter. The judgment shall be confined in operation to the clause, sentence, paragraph, section, or part directly in the controversy in which the judgment shall have been rendered.
History of Section.
P.L. 1985, ch. 215, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-95 - Providence River Relocation — Memorial Boulevard Extension Project › Section 42-95-1. - Creation of fund.

§ 42-95-1. Creation of fund.
There is created the “Providence river relocation — memorial boulevard extension project fund” (hereinafter referred to as “the fund”) into which shall be deposited with the general treasurer of the state:
(1)
The proceeds from the sale of any real property and/or improvements within or adjacent to the capital center special development district as provided by § 37-7.1-3(b).
(2)
Monies provided by the city of Providence for the Providence river relocation — memorial boulevard extension project.
(3)
Any monies received from any other public or private sources intended for the furtherance of the project.
History of Section.
P.L. 1985, ch. 368, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-95 - Providence River Relocation — Memorial Boulevard Extension Project › Section 42-95-2. - Proceeds of funds.

§ 42-95-2. Proceeds of funds.
(a)
All monies in the fund shall be expended in accordance with the general laws of the state and the terms and conditions of the agreement or agreements by and between the city of Providence and the state with respect to the Providence river relocation — memorial boulevard extension project, so called, as defined in the agreement(s), and any other agreement(s) between the state and other public or private entities (hereinafter referred to as “the project”). Expenses incurred from and after November 12, 1984, shall include, but not be limited to, expenses related to design, engineering, land acquisition, survey, legal fees, construction, maintenance, equipment, supplies, administration, easements, and all other expenses necessary and incidental to carrying out the purposes of this chapter and the agreement(s). The governor, or the governor’s delegate, shall be vested with all power and authority necessary or incidental to carrying out the purpose of this chapter.
(b)
With respect to the project, the state controller is authorized and directed to draw his or her orders upon the general treasurer for the payment out of the fund of any sum or sums as may be required, from time to time, upon receipt by the controller of properly authenticated vouchers approved by the governor or the governor’s delegate.
(c)
The powers and authorities granted by this act to the governor, or the governor’s delegate, shall be in addition to, and not in substitution for, all other power provided by law.
History of Section.
P.L. 1985, ch. 368, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-95 - Providence River Relocation — Memorial Boulevard Extension Project › Section 42-95-3. - Investment of monies in fund.

§ 42-95-3. Investment of monies in fund.
All monies in the fund not immediately required for payment pursuant to the provisions of this chapter may be invested by the investment commission, as established by chapter 10 of title 35; provided, however, that the securities in which the fund is invested shall remain a part of the fund until exchanged for other securities; and provided, further, that the income from the investments shall remain a part of the fund and shall be used to reimburse the Rhode Island economic development corporation for interest incurred on behalf of the project for borrowing(s) for:
(1)
Purchase of state property pursuant to § 37-7.1-1(b); and
(2)
Purchase of city of Providence property pursuant to the provisions of the agreement(s) between the city and the state.
History of Section.
P.L. 1985, ch. 368, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-95 - Providence River Relocation — Memorial Boulevard Extension Project › Section 42-95-4. - Advances from general fund.

§ 42-95-4. Advances from general fund.
The general treasurer is authorized from time to time, with the approval of the governor and the director of administration, in anticipation of the receipts of monies enumerated in §§ 42-95-1 and 42-95-3 to advance sums to the fund, for the purposes specified in §§ 42-95-2 and 42-95-3, any funds of the state not specifically held for any particular purpose; provided, however, that all advances made to the fund shall be returned to the general fund upon the receipt by the fund of proceeds resulting from the receipt of monies to the extent of the advances. At no time shall the total of all advances exceed three million dollars ($3,000,000).
History of Section.
P.L. 1985, ch. 368, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-95 - Providence River Relocation — Memorial Boulevard Extension Project › Section 42-95-5. - Termination of fund.

§ 42-95-5. Termination of fund.
Ninety (90) days following the submission to the governor of the final audit of the project by the state auditor general, the fund shall cease to exist and any un-obligated monies in the fund shall be distributed between the city of Providence and the state general fund subject to the terms and conditions of the agreement(s) between the city and the state.
History of Section.
P.L. 1985, ch. 368, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-96 - Neighborhood Crime Prevention Act › Section 42-96-2. - Definitions.

§ 42-96-2. Definitions.
As used in this chapter:
(1)
“Commission” means the Rhode Island justice commission.
(2)
“Director” means the executive director of the Rhode Island justice commission.
(3)
“Municipality” means any city or town within the state.
(4)
“Organization” means any neighborhood crime prevention organization, incorporated or unincorporated, organized exclusively for a purpose or purposes, not for pecuniary profit or financial gain and no part of the assets, income or profit of which is distributable to, or inures to the benefit of, its members, directors (or their equivalent) or officers except to the extent permitted by law, and which is engaged in one or more of the organization activities specified in subdivision (5) of this section.
(5)
“Organization activities” means activities of neighborhood crime prevention, geared towards the heightened awareness and practice of community members in techniques stressing the reduction of opportunities for crimes to occur and the increased possibility of police apprehension of criminals. Organization activities should also seek to develop and strengthen a sense of neighborhood identity and a constructive attitude in that neighborhood. Activities may include, but not be limited to, tenant-lobby patrols, auto patrols, street-foot patrols, home and business security surveys, and dispersal of crime prevention literature and equipment; provided, however, that nothing contained herein shall be interpreted to authorize the possession, carrying, use, or dissemination of firearms or other deadly weapons regardless of whether the appropriate license has been issued for the activity. Activities may also include the involvement of senior citizens and youth in escort services, auxiliary police services, and the utilization of community outreach through publicity of approved anti-crime techniques.
History of Section.
P.L. 1985, ch. 383, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-96 - Neighborhood Crime Prevention Act › Section 42-96-4. - Payments to organizations for the performance of organization activities.

§ 42-96-4. Payments to organizations for the performance of organization activities.
(a)
Each contract entered into with an organization shall provide for payment to that organization for approved activities to be performed by it.
(b)
Payment to organizations pursuant to this chapter shall be restricted to sums required for the payment of salaries and wages of employees, and for the purchase of necessary equipment for the execution of approved activities. Nothing contained in this section shall be interpreted to authorize expenditures leading to the possession, utilization, carrying, or dissemination of firearms or other deadly weapons, regardless of whether the appropriate license has been issued for firearms or other deadly weapons. Qualifying equipment expenditures may include, but shall not be limited to, locks and audio warning devices for use by financially needy, victim-prone residents, patrol vehicles, radios, signs, gasoline, support services for crime victims, publicity, and office supplies. Authorized expenditures may not include the salaries of, or fees for, the hiring of private guards.
(c)
Payments shall be made by the commission to an organization, not less frequently than quarter-annually, at or prior to the commencement of the time period, to compensate the organization for the organization activities which it shall undertake to perform.
(d)
No organization receiving payments pursuant to this chapter shall receive or be eligible to receive any other funds of the state for activities performed by it under the contract. To the extent other state funds are received in violation of this section, payments otherwise due under this chapter shall be accordingly reduced.
History of Section.
P.L. 1985, ch. 383, § 1.