reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-11 - Sexually Transmitted Diseases › Section 23-11-3. - Compulsory treatment of infected persons.

§ 23-11-3. Compulsory treatment of infected persons.
The department of health is empowered to require persons who are in an infectious condition with a sexually transmitted disease to report for treatment to a licensed physician and to continue treatment until cured of his or her infectious condition. Any person suffering from any sexually transmitted disease while in the infectious and contagious stage of that disease who refuses to report for treatment, or who refuses to continue treatment, shall be isolated and treated until that person has been pronounced by a licensed physician to be noninfectious and no longer a danger to the public health.
History of Section.
P.L. 1921, ch. 2081, § 4; G.L. 1923, ch. 163, § 4; G.L. 1938, ch. 257, § 4; impl. am. P.L. 1939, ch. 660, § 180; G.L. 1956, § 23-11-3; P.L. 1986, ch. 246, § 2; P.L. 1986, ch. 436, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-11 - Sexually Transmitted Diseases › Section 23-11-4. - State laboratory facilities and treatment.

§ 23-11-4. State laboratory facilities and treatment.
The state department of health shall provide and/or make arrangements for laboratory tests for the diagnosis of sexually transmitted disease and shall provide and/or make arrangements for the clinical treatment of sexually transmitted diseases as determined by the director of health. In addition, the department of health is authorized to establish by rule and regulation a reasonable fee structure for these laboratory tests and clinical treatments.
History of Section.
P.L. 1921, ch. 2081, § 5; G.L. 1923, ch. 163, § 5; G.L. 1938, ch. 257, § 5; impl. am. P.L. 1939, ch. 660, § 180; G.L. 1956, § 23-11-4; P.L. 1986, ch. 246, § 2; P.L. 1986, ch. 436, § 2; P.L. 1992, ch. 133, art. 26, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-11 - Sexually Transmitted Diseases › Section 23-11-5. - Reports of cases by public and private institutions.

§ 23-11-5. Reports of cases by public and private institutions.
The superintendent or other officer or other person in charge of public or private institutions, such as hospitals or other licensed health care facilities, dispensaries, clinics, homes, asylums, and charitable and correctional institutions, shall promptly report the identity of every patient suffering from a sexually transmitted disease in any form in a manner that may be prescribed by the director of the department of health.
History of Section.
P.L. 1921, ch. 2081, § 6; G.L. 1923, ch. 163, § 6; G.L. 1938, ch. 257, § 6; impl. am. P.L. 1939, ch. 660, § 180; G.L. 1956, § 23-11-5; P.L. 1967, ch. 58, § 1; P.L. 1986, ch. 246, § 2; P.L. 1986, ch. 436, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-11 - Sexually Transmitted Diseases › Section 23-11-6. - Reports by physicians.

§ 23-11-6. Reports by physicians.
Any physician who diagnoses and/or treats a case of sexually transmitted disease shall immediately make a report of that case to the state department of health in the manner and form that the department shall direct.
History of Section.
P.L. 1921, ch. 2081, § 7; G.L. 1923, ch. 163, § 7; G.L. 1938, ch. 257, § 7; impl. am. P.L. 1939, ch. 660, § 180; G.L. 1956, § 23-11-6; P.L. 1967, ch. 58, § 1; P.L. 1986, ch. 246, § 2; P.L. 1986, ch. 436, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-11 - Sexually Transmitted Diseases › Section 23-11-7. - Penalty for failure to report.

§ 23-11-7. Penalty for failure to report.
Any person who shall neglect for a period of ten (10) days to make a report as provided in §§ 23-11-5, 23-11-6, and 23-11-14 shall be fined not more than one hundred dollars ($100).
History of Section.
P.L. 1921, ch. 2081, § 8; G.L. 1923, ch. 163, § 8; G.L. 1938, ch. 257, § 8; G.L. 1956, § 23-11-7; P.L. 1967, ch. 58, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-11 - Sexually Transmitted Diseases › Section 23-11-8. - Blood test of pregnant women.

§ 23-11-8. Blood test of pregnant women.
It shall be the duty of every physician engaged in prenatal attendance upon a pregnant woman to obtain a blood specimen of that pregnant woman within thirty (30) days after the first professional visit. That blood specimen shall be submitted to the laboratory of the state department of health, or to a laboratory approved by the department, for the performance of a Wassermann or other standard laboratory blood test for syphilis. Any violation of the provisions of this section shall constitute a misdemeanor and that physician shall be fined not less than ten dollars ($10.00) nor more than one hundred dollars ($100) for each offense.
History of Section.
G.L. 1923, ch. 395, § 251/2; P.L. 1938, ch. 2606, § 1; G.L. 1938, ch. 606, § 27; impl. am. P.L. 1939, ch. 660, § 180; G.L. 1956, § 23-11-8.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-11 - Sexually Transmitted Diseases › Section 23-11-9. - Repealed.

§ 23-11-9. Repealed.
History of Section.
P.L. 1921, ch. 2081, § 9; G.L. 1923, ch. 163, § 9; G.L. 1938, ch. 257, § 9; G.L. 1956, § 23-11-9; P.L. 1986, ch. 246, § 2; P.L. 1986, ch. 436, § 2; Repealed by P.L. 2017, ch. 13, § 1, effective June 19, 2017; P.L. 2017, ch. 25, § 1, effective June 19, 2017.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-11 - Sexually Transmitted Diseases › Section 23-11-10. - Investigation of suspected cases and sources.

§ 23-11-10. Investigation of suspected cases and sources.
In all suspected cases of sexually transmitted disease, the state department of health is empowered to take appropriate measures to determine whether the person or persons suspected of being infected are suffering from any sexually transmitted disease; and whenever any sexually transmitted disease is found to exist, the state department of health shall, whenever possible, ascertain the sources of the infections. In these investigations, the state department of health is vested with full powers of inspection and examination and treatment as determined by the director of health.
History of Section.
G.L. 1923, ch. 163, § 11; P.L. 1936, ch. 2366, § 1; G.L. 1938, ch. 257, § 10; impl. am. P.L. 1939, ch. 660, § 180; G.L. 1956, § 23-11-10; P.L. 1986, ch. 246, § 2; P.L. 1986, ch. 436, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-11 - Sexually Transmitted Diseases › Section 23-11-11. - Power to examine suspected cases — Right of suspect to own physician.

§ 23-11-11. Power to examine suspected cases — Right of suspect to own physician.
For the purpose of carrying out the provisions of this chapter, the state department of health is empowered to make examinations of persons reasonably suspected of having sexually transmitted disease; provided, however, that any person so examined shall have the right to have present at that examination, at his or her own expense, a physician selected by him or her. The state department of health shall inform him or her of this right and afford him or her a reasonable opportunity to exercise that right; and at the trial of any person being prosecuted under the provisions of § 23-11-12, the prosecution must prove that he or she was so informed and was afforded that opportunity. Persons under eighteen (18) years of age may give legal consent for examination and treatment for any sexually transmitted disease. For the purposes of this section, physical examination and treatment by a licensed physician or his or her designated representative upon the person of a minor who has given consent shall not constitute an assault or an assault and battery upon the person.
History of Section.
G.L. 1923, ch. 163, § 12; P.L. 1936, ch. 2366, § 1; G.L. 1938, ch. 257, § 11; impl. am. P.L. 1939, ch. 660, § 180; G.L. 1956, § 23-11-11; P.L. 1967, ch. 58, § 1; P.L. 1986, ch. 246, § 2; P.L. 1986, ch. 436, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-11 - Sexually Transmitted Diseases › Section 23-11-12. - Refusal to submit to examination.

§ 23-11-12. Refusal to submit to examination.
Any person refusing to permit the department of health to examine him or her, as provided in § 23-11-11, shall be guilty of a misdemeanor, and upon conviction shall be punished by a fine of fifty dollars ($50.00), or by imprisonment for thirty (30) days, or by both fine and imprisonment.
History of Section.
G.L. 1923, ch. 163, § 13; P.L. 1936, ch. 2366, § 1; G.L. 1938, ch. 257, § 12; impl. am. P.L. 1939, ch. 660, § 180; G.L. 1956, § 23-11-12.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-11 - Sexually Transmitted Diseases › Section 23-11-13. - Appropriations and disbursements.

§ 23-11-13. Appropriations and disbursements.
The general assembly shall annually appropriate that sum that it may deem necessary for carrying out the provisions and purposes of this chapter, and the state controller shall draw his or her orders upon the general treasurer for the payment of the sum appropriated, or so much of it as may be from time to time required, upon receipt by him or her of proper vouchers authenticated by the director of health.
History of Section.
P.L. 1921, ch. 2081, § 10; G.L. 1923, ch. 163, § 10; G.L. 1938, ch. 257, § 13; impl. am. P.L. 1939, ch. 660, §§ 65, 180; G.L. 1956, § 23-11-13.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-11 - Sexually Transmitted Diseases › Section 23-11-14. - Reports by public and private laboratories.

§ 23-11-14. Reports by public and private laboratories.
Whenever any public or private laboratory performs a laboratory test for any sexually transmitted disease, the result, if reactive or positive, shall be reported within ten (10) days after the test by the person in charge of the laboratory to the state department of health in the manner and form that may be prescribed by the director of health.
History of Section.
G.L. 1956, § 23-11-14; P.L. 1967, ch. 58, § 2; P.L. 1986, ch. 246, § 2; P.L. 1986, ch. 436, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-11 - Sexually Transmitted Diseases › Section 23-11-15. - Report not violation of physician-patient relationship.

§ 23-11-15. Report not violation of physician-patient relationship.
Any report made pursuant to the provisions of this chapter shall not be deemed a violation of the physician-patient relationship or otherwise contrary to the ethics of the medical profession.
History of Section.
G.L. 1956, § 23-11-15; P.L. 1967, ch. 58, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-11 - Sexually Transmitted Diseases › Section 23-11-16. - Violations — Penalties.

§ 23-11-16. Violations — Penalties.
Unless another penalty is provided by the laws of this state, any person who shall violate any provision of this chapter, or any rule or regulation adopted under this chapter, shall, upon conviction, be punished by a fine of not more than one hundred dollars ($100), or by imprisonment for not more than thirty (30) days, or both.
History of Section.
P.L. 1986, ch. 246, § 3; P.L. 1986, ch. 436, § 3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-11 - Sexually Transmitted Diseases › Section 23-11-17. - Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) testing.

§ 23-11-17. Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) testing.
The physician or healthcare provider attending any person for a suspected sexually transmitted disease shall offer testing for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). All testing pursuant to this section shall be as provided for in chapter 6.3 of this title.
History of Section.
P.L. 1988, ch. 405, § 3; P.L. 2000, ch. 171, § 2; P.L. 2006, ch. 599, § 5; P.L. 2008, ch. 475, § 41; P.L. 2009, ch. 196, § 5; P.L. 2009, ch. 289, § 5.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-11 - Sexually Transmitted Diseases › Section 23-11-18. - Legislative findings.

§ 23-11-18. Legislative findings.
The general assembly recognizes and declares that:
(1)
The special legislative commission to study the feasibility of implementing a needle exchange program has met in accordance with 1992 joint resolution 192, and strongly recommends passage of a law enabling the department of health to implement a pilot needle exchange program for the prevention of HIV transmission among intravenous drug users;
(2)
Seventy-one percent (71%) of all AIDS cases among women are linked to injection drug use; fifty-eight percent (58%) of children with AIDS were infected through their mother who injected drugs or had sex with an IDU. In Rhode Island, the number of injection drug users has been estimated as high as eight thousand (8,000); and intravenous drug use accounts for forty-five percent (45%) of reported cases of HIV infection since 1989;
(3)
The yearly cost of a syringe exchange program is often less than the costs to treat a single person with AIDS. The lifetime medical costs for treating someone with AIDS is approximately eighty-five thousand dollars ($85,000);
(4)
Needle exchange programs have been shown to reduce HIV transmission by as much as thirty-three percent (33%), and have been successfully implemented in over twenty (20) locations in the United States, including Boulder, Colorado; New Haven, Connecticut; Honolulu, Hawaii; Portland, Oregon; Seattle and Tacoma, Washington; San Francisco, California; Boston, Massachusetts; Chicago, Illinois; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; and Indianapolis, Indiana;
(5)
That legislation is necessary to enable the department of health to pursue additional funding from the federal government and private foundations for a needle exchange program; and the general assembly of the state does recognize and declare that a well designed and well monitored pilot needle exchange program should play a vital and necessary role in our larger public health effort to reduce the transmission of HIV; and
(6)
This act should not be misconstrued to mean that the state endorses or encourages the illegal use and/or abuse of illicit or harmful substances in any form or method of transmission whatsoever. Rather, the express purpose of this act is to assist in the reduction of the transmission of life-threatening diseases, such as AIDS and HIV, through the use of contaminated needles and syringes. Moreover, it shall be the ongoing policy of the state to use its considerable resources to educate its citizens about the dangers of all forms of substance abuse in any manner of transmission and to foster programs of prevention so as to reduce the incidence of substance abuse, drug addiction, AIDS/HIV, and like problems.
History of Section.
P.L. 1994, ch. 30, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-11 - Sexually Transmitted Diseases › Section 23-11-19. - Exchange of hypodermic needles and syringes.

§ 23-11-19. Exchange of hypodermic needles and syringes.
(a)
The director of the department of health shall maintain a program offering the free exchange of new hypodermic needles and syringes for used hypodermic needles and syringes as a means to prevent the transmission of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) or viral hepatitis among injecting drug users eighteen (18) years of age or older. Any site used in the program shall be approved by the director of health and shall make available educational materials, HIV counseling and testing, and referral services targeted to the education of HIV/AIDS and viral hepatitis transmission as well as information and referrals pertaining to substance abuse prevention and treatment.
(b)
Any program of needle and syringe exchange must be implemented pursuant to the provisions of this section and shall incorporate an on-going evaluation plan to determine the impact of the needle exchange program on the participants and the community in the efforts to lower the HIV rate among injecting users including successful referrals to substance abuse treatment.
History of Section.
P.L. 1994, ch. 30, § 1; P.L. 1997, ch. 213, § 1; P.L. 1997, ch. 309, § 1; P.L. 2006, ch. 599, § 5.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-11 - Sexually Transmitted Diseases › Section 23-11-20. - Expedited partner therapy.

§ 23-11-20. Expedited partner therapy.
(a)
Notwithstanding any other provision of law to the contrary, a physician licensed under chapter 37 of title 5, a physician assistant licensed under chapter 54 of title 5 or a certified registered nurse practitioner licensed under chapter 34 of title 5 who is authorized to prescribe and dispense prescription drugs, and who diagnoses a sexually transmitted chlamydia or gonorrhea infection in an individual patient, may prescribe prescription drugs to the patient’s sexual partner or partners for the treatment of the sexually transmitted chlamydia or gonorrhea infection without an examination of the sexual partner or partners.
(b)
Neither a licensed physician, licensed physician assistant or certified registered nurse practitioner who, in good faith, prescribes prescription drugs to a patient’s sexual partner or partners for the treatment of a sexually transmitted chlamydia or gonorrhea infection in accordance with this section, nor the group or healthcare facility for which they work, shall be subject to civil or criminal liability and shall not be deemed to have engaged in unprofessional conduct.
History of Section.
P.L. 2010, ch. 166, § 1; P.L. 2010, ch. 175, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-12 - Cancer › Section 23-12-1. - Formulation of plans and minimum standards for care and treatment.

§ 23-12-1. Formulation of plans and minimum standards for care and treatment.
It shall be the duty of the state director of health to formulate a plan for the care and treatment of indigent persons suffering from cancer and to establish and designate standard requirements for the organization, equipment, and conduct of cancer units or departments in general hospitals of this state. The state director of health shall consult with physicians designated by the president of the Rhode Island Medical Society, with other interested organizations, and with any other experts or nonexperts wherever located that he or she may deem proper with a view to carrying out the purposes of this chapter and with a view to establishing a minimum standard for the conduct and equipment of cancer units or departments in general hospitals in those parts or districts of the state as may, in the opinion of the state director of health, be deemed most advantageous to the public health.
History of Section.
P.L. 1942, ch. 1254, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 23-12-1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-12 - Cancer › Section 23-12-2. - Educational plan.

§ 23-12-2. Educational plan.
The state director of health shall formulate and put into effect an educational plan for the purpose of preventing cancer, for the purpose of aiding in the early diagnosis of cancer, and for the purpose of informing hospitals and cancer patients of the proper treatment.
History of Section.
P.L. 1942, ch. 1254, § 2; G.L. 1956, § 23-12-2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-12 - Cancer › Section 23-12-3. - Aid to indigent patients.

§ 23-12-3. Aid to indigent patients.
The state director of health is authorized and directed to make rules and regulations specifying to what extent and on what terms and conditions indigent cancer patients of this state may receive financial aid for the diagnosis and treatment of cancer in any approved hospital in this state. The director of health is authorized to furnish aid to indigent cancer patients of this state who are citizens of this state and who through no fault of their own are financially unable to provide proper treatment for themselves, to the extent of and within the available funds as the state director of health shall deem proper. The state director of health shall have the power in his or her discretion to administer aid in any manner that in his or her judgment will afford the greater benefit to cancer patients throughout the state, and shall have the power, to the extent of and within the available funds which may be provided by the general assembly.
History of Section.
P.L. 1942, ch. 1254, § 3; G.L. 1956, § 23-12-3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-12 - Cancer › Section 23-12-4. - Central cancer registry — Reports.

§ 23-12-4. Central cancer registry — Reports.
(a)
The state director of health may enter into a contract with a non-profit organization to establish a registry to record certain cases of malignant disease that occur in residents of the state, and any appropriate information concerning these cases that it shall deem necessary and appropriate in order to conduct epidemiologic surveys of cancer and to apply appropriate preventive and control measures.
(b)
The state director of health shall require the reporting of certain cases of malignant disease and the submission of any specified additional information on reported cases or control populations that he or she deems necessary and appropriate for the recognition, prevention, or control of certain cases of malignant diseases.
(c)
The central cancer registry shall maintain comprehensive records of all reports submitted pursuant to this section. These reports shall be confidential in accordance with chapter 37.3 of title 5 and subject to the restrictions on release incorporated in that chapter.
(d)
The state director of health shall conduct those activities to prevent and control cancer among the residents of the state that he or she shall deem necessary and appropriate and as are indicated from the findings of the central cancer registry.
(e)
Nothing in this section shall be construed to compel any individual to submit to medical or department examination or supervision.
(f)
The department shall make rules and regulations that are necessary to implement the provisions of this section pursuant to chapter 35 of title 42.
(g)
The general assembly shall annually appropriate the sum of four hundred thousand dollars ($400,000) for the support of the central cancer registry.
History of Section.
P.L. 1985, ch. 402, § 1; P.L. 1986, ch. 287, art. 28, § 4.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-12.1 - Hemophilia Care Program › Section 23-12.1-1. - “Hemophilia” defined.

§ 23-12.1-1. “Hemophilia” defined.
For purposes of this chapter, “Hemophilia” means a bleeding tendency resulting from a genetically determined deficiency of a clotting factor in the blood.
History of Section.
P.L. 1977, ch. 209, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-12.1 - Hemophilia Care Program › Section 23-12.1-2. - Establishment of program.

§ 23-12.1-2. Establishment of program.
The state department of health, referred to in this chapter as “the department”, shall establish a program for the care and treatment of persons suffering from hemophilia. This program shall assist persons who require continuing treatment with blood and blood derivatives to avoid crippling, extensive hospitalization, and other effects associated with this critical chronic bleeding condition, but who are unable to pay for the entire cost of care and treatment services on a continuing basis despite the existence of various types of hospital and medical insurance coverages, Medicare, Medicaid, and other government assistance programs, and private charitable assistance programs.
History of Section.
P.L. 1977, ch. 209, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-12.1 - Hemophilia Care Program › Section 23-12.1-3. - Duties of department of health.

§ 23-12.1-3. Duties of department of health.
The department shall:
(1)
Develop standards for determining eligibility for care and treatment under this program;
(2)
Extend financial assistance to persons suffering from hemophilia in obtaining blood, blood derivatives and concentrates, and other efficacious agents for use in hospital, medical and dental facilities, and at home, or participate in the cost of blood processing to the extent that this support will facilitate the supplying of blood, blood derivates and concentrates, and other efficacious agents to hemophiliac patients at an economical cost, thus increasing the effectiveness of the moneys appropriated to carry out the provisions of this chapter;
(3)
Assist in the development and expansion of programs for the care and treatment of persons suffering from hemophilia, including self-administration, prevention, and home care and other medical and dental procedures and techniques designed to provide maximum control over bleeding episodes typical of this condition;
(4)
Institute and carry on educational programs among physicians, dentists, hospitals, public health departments, and the public concerning hemophilia, including dissemination of information and the conducting of educational programs concerning the methods of care and treatment of persons suffering from this condition; and
(5)
Promulgate all rules and regulations necessary to effectuate the purposes of this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1977, ch. 209, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-12.5 - New England Compact on Radiological Health Protection › Section 23-12.5-2. - Radiation incident plan.

§ 23-12.5-2. Radiation incident plan.
The director of health shall formulate and keep current a radiation incident plan for this state, in accordance with the duty assumed pursuant to article III (a) of the compact contained in § 23-12.5-1.
History of Section.
P.L. 1967, ch. 90, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 23-44-2; P.L. 1979, ch. 39, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 23-12.5-2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-12.5 - New England Compact on Radiological Health Protection › Section 23-12.5-3. - State administrator.

§ 23-12.5-3. State administrator.
The compact administrator for this state, as required by article VI of the compact contained in § 23-12.5-1, shall be the director of health.
History of Section.
P.L. 1967, ch. 90, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 23-44-3; P.L. 1979, ch. 39, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 23-12.5-3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-12.6 - Ovarian Cancer Education, Detection, and Prevention › Section 23-12.6-1. - Short title.

§ 23-12.6-1. Short title.
This chapter shall be known as the “Rhode Island Ovarian Cancer Education, Detection, and Prevention Act”.
History of Section.
P.L. 1999, ch. 246, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-12.6 - Ovarian Cancer Education, Detection, and Prevention › Section 23-12.6-2. - Preamble.

§ 23-12.6-2. Preamble.
Ovarian cancer is a dangerous threat to the female population in the state as one in every fifty-five (55) women is stricken with the disease; three quarters (¾) of ovarian cancer cases are diagnosed after the disease has reached advanced stages (3rd or 4th stage) and fifty percent (50%) of women die within five (5) years of diagnosis. When ovarian cancer is detected in its early stages, the survival rate is ninety-two percent (92%). The overwhelming majority of women who get ovarian cancer have no known risk factors. Ovarian cancer symptoms are subtle and easily confused with symptoms of other disorders. The result is most often women do not recognize the symptoms, the result of which is often fatal. The Rhode Island general assembly declares it a matter of public health and urgency to declare war on ovarian cancer in Rhode Island and creates the “Rhode Island Ovarian Cancer Evaluation, Detection, and Prevention Act ”.
History of Section.
P.L. 1999, ch. 246, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-12.6 - Ovarian Cancer Education, Detection, and Prevention › Section 23-12.6-3. - Public policy goals — Department of health.

§ 23-12.6-3. Public policy goals — Department of health.
The department of health, through the Rhode Island Cancer Council, is authorized and mandated to achieve and implement the following public health policy goals as they relate to ovarian cancer in Rhode Island:
(1)
The department of health, through the Rhode Island Cancer Council, is mandated to sponsor a yearly public education campaign to expand women’s and health care providers awareness about the disease. This campaign shall consist of awareness about the common symptoms of the disease, screening tests, and examinations by gynecologists that can detect the early symptoms of the disease.
(2)
The department of health, through the Rhode Island Cancer Council, shall establish as public policy in the state increased funding for research and advocacy for creating genetic testing policies.
(3)
The department of health, through the Rhode Island Cancer Council, shall work with major health providers in Rhode Island to research and extend and promote the awareness and understanding of ovarian cancer in order to improve screening and detection tools and to work with the national organizations to assist in finding a cure.
(4)
The department of health, through the Rhode Island Cancer Council, shall coordinate the work of ovarian cancer groups, activists, researchers, support groups, and health advocates and shall annually report to the general assembly the progress it is making to advance education, detection and research and improved therapies concerning ovarian cancer affecting women in the state.
History of Section.
P.L. 1999, ch. 246, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-12.7 - The Breast Cancer Act › Section 23-12.7-1. - Short title.

§ 23-12.7-1. Short title.
This chapter shall be known and may be cited as the “The Breast Cancer Act.”
History of Section.
P.L. 2000, ch. 277, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-12.7 - The Breast Cancer Act › Section 23-12.7-2. - Legislative findings.

§ 23-12.7-2. Legislative findings.
It is found and declared as follows:
(1)
Breast cancer is a significant threat to the health of women. Breast cancer is the most common form of cancer in women, and causes the death of a woman in the United States every twelve (12) minutes.
(2)
The incidence of breast cancer continues to increase at a dramatic rate. In 1964, one woman in twenty (20) developed breast cancer over the course of her lifetime. By 1987, the probability had increased to one in eleven (11) and by 1992, it was one in eight (8). At the current rate of increase, early in 2000, one woman in six (6) will develop breast cancer in her lifetime. Presently breast cancer claims over two hundred (200) lives in Rhode Island annually.
(3)
Breast cancer exacts an enormous economic toll on our society, including over two billion dollars ($2,000,000,000) in direct medical costs, and over eight billion dollars ($8,000,000,000) in both direct medical and indirect costs.
(4)
Medical experts still do not know the cause of breast cancer, or how to prevent breast cancer.
(5)
The state of Rhode Island must take the lead in combating the increasingly rapid spread of breast cancer and the current lack of knowledge with respect to breast cancer’s cause and cure, and effective methods of screening and treatment.
(6)
It is the intent of the legislature in enacting this chapter to fund screening mammography for women, who are uninsured and/or underinsured, satisfying eligibility criteria as established by the Rhode Island department of health with assistance from a community advisory board consisting of consumer advocates and physicians.
(7)
It is the further intent of the legislature to direct the Rhode Island department of health to provide appropriate diagnostic testing to determine a diagnosis of breast cancer and staging of the disease and case management of the woman’s care by facilitating contact with a breast surgeon, medical oncologist, and/or radiation oncologist.
(8)
In addition, this legislation will include a mandate for programs of outreach, education, increased awareness, and cultural competence to the statewide community.
(9)
There are over twenty-two thousand (22,000) women in Rhode Island today with breast cancer. Nationally, one million six hundred thousand (1,600,000) women have breast cancer. Mammography screening is the most useful tool, to date, to identify a breast cancer.
(10)
There are four thousand eight hundred forty-four (4,844) Rhode Island women, who are uninsured or underinsured and cannot afford a mammogram.
(11)
In 1995, the Rhode Island general assembly passed a resolution declaring breast cancer an epidemic in the state.
(12)
In keeping with its progressive and concerned outlook for the health and welfare of women in Rhode Island, the guarantee of breast cancer screening must be extended to uninsured and underinsured women.
(13)
There should be no barrier to quality breast screening in Rhode Island.
History of Section.
P.L. 2000, ch. 277, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-12.7 - The Breast Cancer Act › Section 23-12.7-3. - Program established.

§ 23-12.7-3. Program established.
(a)
Through funding from the Rhode Island Cancer Council, the Rhode Island department of health is required to establish a program of free mammography screening according to American Cancer Society standards, and, where required, follow-up, diagnostic testing, and case management for women in the state who are uninsured or underinsured.
(b)
The screening program shall:
(1)
Secure radiology facilities to participate in the screening program;
(2)
Pay for screening mammograms;
(3)
Ensure that screening results are sent by mail, electronically, or otherwise, to the patient in a timely manner;
(4)
Provide diagnostic tests as required to diagnose breast cancer;
(5)
Provide case management facilitating appropriate contact to breast surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists; and
(6)
Provide follow-up support to women who are found to have breast cancer as a result of this screening program.
(c)
The director of the Rhode Island department of health is required to provide a quarterly report to the general assembly on the program of free mammography screening, follow-up diagnostic testing and case management, and public education. An advisory committee concerned with advocacy, outreach, and public education shall meet on a quarterly basis and report to the director.
History of Section.
P.L. 2000, ch. 277, § 1; P.L. 2021, ch. 45, § 1, effective June 11, 2021; P.L. 2021, ch. 46, § 1, effective June 11, 2021.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-12.8 - The Firefighter Cancer Wellness Act › Section 23-12.8-1. - Short title.

§ 23-12.8-1. Short title.
This chapter shall be known and may be cited as “The Firefighter Cancer Wellness Act.”
History of Section.
P.L. 2008, ch. 130, § 1; P.L. 2008, ch. 184, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-12.8 - The Firefighter Cancer Wellness Act › Section 23-12.8-2. - Legislative findings.

§ 23-12.8-2. Legislative findings.
It is found and declared as follows:
(1)
Studies indicate that firefighters have a significantly higher risk of developing certain cancers due to exposure to toxins and chemicals.
(2)
The state of Rhode Island must take action to promote firefighter wellness and reduce the incidence and effects of cancer among firefighters.
History of Section.
P.L. 2008, ch. 130, § 1; P.L. 2008, ch. 184, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-12.8 - The Firefighter Cancer Wellness Act › Section 23-12.8-3. - Education program established.

§ 23-12.8-3. Education program established.
(a)
The director of the department of health shall annually provide to the office of the state fire marshal information regarding cancer incidence among professional and volunteer firefighters, the increase in survival rates attributable to early detection and the availability of cancer screening as well as any other applicable testing methods designed to decrease the incidence and severity of malignant conditions resulting from occupational exposure to hazardous materials.
(b)
The office of the state fire marshal shall annually inform the fire chiefs of all professional and volunteer departments and districts in the state of Rhode Island of the cancer risks associated with firefighting and the importance of frequent medical examination including cancer screening.
(c)
The department of health, the state fire marshal and Rhode Island municipalities may enter into contracts with healthcare and/or cancer screening providers for the purpose of establishing preventative programs for firefighters and related professions.
History of Section.
P.L. 2008, ch. 130, § 1; P.L. 2008, ch. 184, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-12.9 - Dense Breast Notification and Education › Section 23-12.9-1. - Short title.

§ 23-12.9-1. Short title.
This chapter shall be known and may be cited as “The Dense Breast Notification and Education Act.”
History of Section.
P.L. 2014, ch. 47, § 1; P.L. 2014, ch. 54, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-12.9 - Dense Breast Notification and Education › Section 23-12.9-2. - Public policy goals — Department of health.

§ 23-12.9-2. Public policy goals — Department of health.
The department of health, through the Rhode Island Cancer Council, is authorized and mandated to implement the following public health policy goals as they relate to dense breast notification in Rhode Island. Commencing on October 1, 2014, all healthcare facilities that perform mammography examinations shall include in the summary of the mammography report to be provided to a patient by mail, electronically, or otherwise, information that identifies the patient’s individual Breast Tissue Classification based on the Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System established by the American College of Radiology. If the facility determines that a patient has heterogeneously or extremely dense breasts, the summary of the mammography report shall also include the following notice:
“Your mammogram indicates that you have dense breast tissue. Dense breast tissue is relatively common and is found in about forty percent (40%) of women. The presence of dense tissue can make it more difficult to detect cancers in the breast by mammography because it can hide small abnormalities and may be associated with an increased risk. Hence, you may benefit from supplementary screening tests, which may include a breast ultrasound screening, or a breast MRI examination, or both, depending on your individual risk factors.
We are providing this information to raise your awareness of this important factor and to encourage you to discuss your dense breast tissue, as well as other breast cancer risk factors, with your healthcare provider. Together, you can decide which screening options are right for you.
A report of your results was sent to your physician. You should contact your physician if you have any questions or concerns about this report.”
History of Section.
P.L. 2014, ch. 47, § 1; P.L. 2014, ch. 54, § 1; P.L. 2021, ch. 45, § 2, effective June 11, 2021; P.L. 2021, ch. 46, § 2, effective June 11, 2021.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-12.10 - Harm Reduction Center Advisory Committee and Pilot Program. [Expires March 1, 2026.] › Section 23-12.10-1. - Purpose and creation — Municipal authorization required. [Expires March 1, 2026.]

§ 23-12.10-1. Purpose and creation — Municipal authorization required. [Expires March 1, 2026.]
(a)
The purpose of this chapter is to authorize a four-year (4) pilot program to prevent drug overdoses through the establishment of “harm reduction centers,” which, as used in this chapter, shall be defined as a community-based resource for health screening, disease prevention, and recovery assistance where persons may safely consume pre-obtained substances. Smoking of pre-obtained substances shall also be permitted within the harm reduction center.
(b)
Each harm reduction center shall provide the necessary healthcare professionals to prevent overdose, and shall provide referrals for counseling or other medical treatment that may be appropriate for persons utilizing the harm reduction center.
(c)
The director of the department of health shall promulgate regulations to authorize the program established by this chapter, and in accordance with § 23-12.10-5. Nothing contained in this section authorizes a harm reduction center without approval of the municipality in which the center is proposed.
(d)(1)
Any harm reduction center proposed to be operated pursuant to the provisions of this chapter shall require municipal authorization and approval prior to opening or operating in any community within this state.
(2)
As used in this chapter, the term “municipal authorization and approval” means an express affirmative vote by the city or town council, or the equivalent governing body, of any municipality where a harm reduction center is proposed to be located, which affirmative vote approves:
(i)
The opening and operation of the proposed harm reduction center;
(ii)
The exact location of the proposed harm reduction center, which shall include street address and plat and lot number or other applicable number as used by the municipality’s tax assessor; and
(iii)
An express authorization as to the hours of operation of the proposed harm reduction center.
(e)
Each harm reduction center approved for operation pursuant to the provisions of this chapter shall cease operations on or before March 1, 2026, unless an act of the general assembly expressly authorizes the continuation of the operation of the harm reduction center.
History of Section.
P.L. 2021, ch. 185, § 1, effective March 1, 2022; P.L. 2021, ch. 324, § 1, effective March 1, 2022; P.L. 2023, ch. 7, § 1, effective April 7, 2023; P.L. 2023, ch. 8, § 1, effective April 7, 2023.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-12.10 - Harm Reduction Center Advisory Committee and Pilot Program. [Expires March 1, 2026.] › Section 23-12.10-2. - Establishment of advisory committee. [Expires March 1, 2026.]

§ 23-12.10-2. Establishment of advisory committee. [Expires March 1, 2026.]
There is hereby established an advisory committee to advise the director of the department of health with respect to the regulations necessary to effectuate the purpose of this chapter. The advisory committee shall be chaired by the director of the department of health, or the director’s designee, and consist of nine (9) additional members: one of whom shall be the attorney general, or designee; one member from the Rhode Island Medical Society; one member from the Hospital Association of Rhode Island; one member from the Rhode Island chapter of the American Society of Addiction Medicine; and five (5) members appointed by the governor, one of whom shall be a person with a substance use disorder; one of whom shall be a person working in overdose prevention; one of whom shall be a current or former law enforcement official; one of whom shall be a representative of the Rhode Island League of Cities and Towns; and one of whom shall be a person who has suffered a drug overdose or a family member of a person who suffered a fatal drug overdose.
History of Section.
P.L. 2021, ch. 185, § 1, effective March 1, 2022; P.L. 2021, ch. 324, § 1, effective March 1, 2022.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-12.10 - Harm Reduction Center Advisory Committee and Pilot Program. [Expires March 1, 2026.] › Section 23-12.10-3. - Role of advisory committee. [Expires March 1, 2026.]

§ 23-12.10-3. Role of advisory committee. [Expires March 1, 2026.]
The advisory committee shall make recommendations to the director of the department of health with respect to the following:
(1)
Maximizing the potential public health and safety benefits of harm reduction centers;
(2)
The proper disposal of hypodermic needles and syringes;
(3)
The recovery of persons utilizing such harm reduction centers;
(4)
Federal, state, and local laws impacting the creation and operation of the harm reduction centers;
(5)
Appropriate guidance to relevant professional licensing boards;
(6)
Potential collaboration with other public health efforts;
(7)
Consideration of any other factors beneficial to promoting the public health and safety; and
(8)
Liability protection for property owners, harm reduction center staff, and volunteers and participants, from criminal or civil liability resulting from the operation of a harm reduction center.
History of Section.
P.L. 2021, ch. 185, § 1, effective March 1, 2022; P.L. 2021, ch. 324, § 1, effective March 1, 2022.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-12.10 - Harm Reduction Center Advisory Committee and Pilot Program. [Expires March 1, 2026.] › Section 23-12.10-4. - Liability protections. [Expires March 1, 2026.]

§ 23-12.10-4. Liability protections. [Expires March 1, 2026.]
Notwithstanding any other law to the contrary, a person or entity, including, but not limited to, property owners, managers, employees, volunteers, clients or participants, and state, city, or town government employees acting in the course and scope of employment, shall not be arrested, charged, or prosecuted pursuant to § 21-28-4.01(c)(1), § 21-28-4.06, § 21-28-4.08, § 21-28-5.06, or § 21-28.5-2, including for attempting, aiding and abetting, or conspiracy to commit a violation of any of those sections; nor have their property subject to forfeiture; nor be subject to any civil or administrative penalty, including, but not limited to, disciplinary action by a professional licensing board, credentialing restrictions, contractual or civil liability, or medical staff or other employment action; nor be denied any right or privilege for actions, conduct, or omissions relating to the approval or operation of a harm reduction center in compliance with this chapter and any rules and regulations promulgated pursuant to this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 2021, ch. 185, § 1, effective March 1, 2022; P.L. 2021, ch. 324, § 1, effective March 1, 2022.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-12.10 - Harm Reduction Center Advisory Committee and Pilot Program. [Expires March 1, 2026.] › Section 23-12.10-5. - Promulgation of regulations. [Expires March 1, 2026.]

§ 23-12.10-5. Promulgation of regulations. [Expires March 1, 2026.]
The director of the department of health shall promulgate regulations authorized by this chapter no later than March 1, 2022. Provided, the director shall amend these regulations to the extent the director deems necessary after March 1, 2022, to address the smoking of pre-obtained substances.
History of Section.
P.L. 2021, ch. 185, § 1, effective March 1, 2022; P.L. 2021, ch. 324, § 1, effective March 1, 2022; P.L. 2023, ch. 7, § 1, effective April 7, 2023; P.L. 2023, ch. 8, § 1, effective April 7, 2023.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-12.10 - Harm Reduction Center Advisory Committee and Pilot Program. [Expires March 1, 2026.] › Section 23-12.10-6. - Sunset.

§ 23-12.10-6. Sunset.
On or before January 31, 2026, the director of the department of health and the attorney general shall submit to the governor, the speaker of the house, and the president of the senate, recommendations as to continuation of the provisions of this chapter, and unless extended by the general assembly, the provisions of this chapter shall sunset and expire on March 1, 2026.
History of Section.
P.L. 2023, ch. 7, § 2, effective April 7, 2023; P.L. 2023, ch. 8, § 2, effective April 7, 2023.