reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-45.1 - Antiquities Act of Rhode Island › Section 42-45.1-11. - Field investigations on privately owned lands — Communication of knowledge of archeological sites.

§ 42-45.1-11. Field investigations on privately owned lands — Communication of knowledge of archeological sites.
It is the declared intention of the general assembly that field investigations on privately owned lands should be conducted in accordance with both the provisions and spirit of this chapter; and persons having knowledge of the location of archaeological sites are encouraged to communicate the information to the state historical preservation commission.
History of Section.
G.L. 1956, § 42-45.1-11; P.L. 1974, ch. 161, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-45.1 - Antiquities Act of Rhode Island › Section 42-45.1-12. - Enforcement of chapter — Assistance by other agencies.

§ 42-45.1-12. Enforcement of chapter — Assistance by other agencies.
The attorney general of the state of Rhode Island shall have the power to bring an action in the name of the state of Rhode Island in any court of competent jurisdiction for restraining orders and injunctive relief to restrain and enjoin violations or threatened violations of this chapter, and for the return of items taken in violation of the provisions hereof. The chief administrative officers of all state agencies are authorized and directed to cooperate and assist the state historical preservation commission and the attorney general in carrying out the intent of this chapter. All law enforcement agencies and officers, state and local, are authorized and directed to assist in enforcing this chapter and in carrying out the intent hereof.
History of Section.
G.L. 1956, § 42-45.1-12; P.L. 1974, ch. 161, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-45.1 - Antiquities Act of Rhode Island › Section 42-45.1-13. - Severability.

§ 42-45.1-13. Severability.
The sections of this chapter and each provision and part thereof are hereby declared to be severable and independent of each other, and the holding of a section, or part thereof, or the application thereof to any person or circumstance, to be invalid, ineffective, or unconstitutional shall not affect any other section, or provision or part thereof, or the application of any section, or provision or part thereof, to any other person and circumstance.
History of Section.
G.L. 1956, § 42-45.1-13; P.L. 1974, ch. 161, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-46 - Open Meetings › Section 42-46-1. - Public policy.

§ 42-46-1. Public policy.
It is essential to the maintenance of a democratic society that public business be performed in an open and public manner and that the citizens be advised of and aware of the performance of public officials and the deliberations and decisions that go into the making of public policy.
History of Section.
G.L. 1956, § 42-46-1; P.L. 1976, ch. 330, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-46 - Open Meetings › Section 42-46-2. - Definitions.

§ 42-46-2. Definitions.
As used in this chapter:
(1)
“Meeting”
means the convening of a public body to discuss and/or act upon a matter over which the public body has supervision, control, jurisdiction, or advisory power. As used herein, the term
“meeting”
expressly includes, without limiting the generality of the foregoing, so-called
“workshop,” “working,”
or
“work”
sessions.
(2)
“Open call”
means a public announcement by the chairperson of the committee that the meeting is going to be held in executive session and the chairperson must indicate which exception of § 42-46-5 is being involved.
(3)
“Open forum”
means the designated portion of an open meeting, if any, on a properly posted notice reserved for citizens to address comments to a public body relating to matters affecting the public business.
(4)
“Prevailing plaintiff”
includes those persons and entities deemed
“prevailing parties”
pursuant to 42 U.S.C. § 1988.
(5)
“Public body”
means any department, agency, commission, committee, board, council, bureau, or authority, or any subdivision thereof, of state or municipal government or the board of directors of any library that funded at least twenty-five percent (25%) of its operational budget in the prior budget year with public funds, and shall include all authorities defined in § 42-35-1. For purposes of this section, any political party, organization, or unit thereof meeting or convening is not and should not be considered to be a public body; provided, however, that no such meeting shall be used to circumvent the requirements of this chapter.
(6)
“Quorum,”
unless otherwise defined by applicable law, means a simple majority of the membership of a public body.
History of Section.
G.L. 1956, § 42-46-2; P.L. 1976, ch. 330, § 2; P.L. 1982, ch. 352, § 1; P.L. 1984, ch. 372, § 1; P.L. 1995, ch. 297, § 1; P.L. 1998, ch. 379, § 1; P.L. 2005, ch. 103, § 1; P.L. 2005, ch. 134, § 1; P.L. 2006, ch. 453, § 1; P.L. 2007, ch. 129, § 1; P.L. 2007, ch. 180, § 1; P.L. 2008, ch. 475, § 11; P.L. 2019, ch. 98, § 1; P.L. 2019, ch. 132, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-46 - Open Meetings › Section 42-46-3. - Open meetings.

§ 42-46-3. Open meetings.
Every meeting of all public bodies shall be open to the public unless closed pursuant to §§ 42-46-4 and 42-46-5.
History of Section.
G.L. 1956, § 42-46-3; P.L. 1976, ch. 330, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-46 - Open Meetings › Section 42-46-4. - Closed meetings.

§ 42-46-4. Closed meetings.
(a)
By open call, a public body may hold a meeting closed to the public upon an affirmative vote of the majority of its members. A meeting closed to the public shall be limited to matters allowed to be exempted from discussion at open meetings by § 42-46-5. The vote of each member on the question of holding a meeting closed to the public and the reason for holding a closed meeting, by a citation to a subdivision of § 42-46-5(a), and a statement specifying the nature of the business to be discussed, shall be recorded and entered into the minutes of the meeting. No public body shall discuss in closed session any public matter which does not fall within the citations to § 42-46-5(a) referred to by the public body in voting to close the meeting, even if these discussions could otherwise be closed to the public under this chapter.
(b)
All votes taken in closed sessions shall be disclosed once the session is reopened; provided, however, a vote taken in a closed session need not be disclosed for the period of time during which its disclosure would jeopardize any strategy, negotiation or investigation undertaken pursuant to discussions conducted under § 42-46-5(a).
History of Section.
G.L. 1956, § 42-46-4; P.L. 1976, ch. 330, § 2; P.L. 1988, ch. 84, § 29; P.L. 1988, ch. 659, § 1, P.L. 1990, ch. 201, § 1; P.L. 1998, ch. 379, § 1; P.L. 2007, ch. 340, § 37.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-46 - Open Meetings › Section 42-46-8. - Remedies available to aggrieved persons or entities.

§ 42-46-8. Remedies available to aggrieved persons or entities.
(a)
Any citizen or entity of the state who is aggrieved as a result of violations of the provisions of this chapter may file a complaint with the attorney general. The attorney general shall investigate the complaint and if the attorney general determines that the allegations of the complaint are meritorious he or she may file a complaint on behalf of the complainant in the superior court against the public body.
(b)
No complaint may be filed by the attorney general after one hundred eighty (180) days from the date of public approval of the minutes of the meeting at which the alleged violation occurred, or, in the case of an unannounced or improperly closed meeting, after one hundred eighty (180) days from the public action of a public body revealing the alleged violation, whichever is greater.
(c)
Nothing within this section shall prohibit any individual from retaining private counsel for the purpose of filing a complaint in the superior court within the time specified by this section against the public body which has allegedly violated the provisions of this chapter; provided, however, that if the individual has first filed a complaint with the attorney general pursuant to this section, and the attorney general declines to take legal action, the individual may file suit in superior court within ninety (90) days of the attorney general’s closing of the complaint or within one hundred eighty (180) days of the alleged violation, whichever occurs later.
(d)
The court shall award reasonable attorney fees and costs to a prevailing plaintiff, other than the attorney general, except where special circumstances would render such an award unjust. The court may issue injunctive relief and declare null and void any actions of a public body found to be in violation of this chapter. In addition, the court may impose a civil fine not exceeding five thousand dollars ($5,000) against a public body or any of its members found to have committed a willful or knowing violation of this chapter.
(e)
Nothing within this section shall prohibit the attorney general from initiating a complaint on behalf of the public interest.
(f)
Actions brought under this chapter may be advanced on the calendar upon motion of the petitioner.
(g)
The attorney general shall consider all complaints filed under this chapter to have also been filed under § 38-2-8(b) if applicable.
History of Section.
P.L. 1978, ch. 146, § 2; P.L. 1981, ch. 279, § 1; P.L. 1984, ch. 372, § 1; P.L. 1985, ch. 373, § 1; P.L. 1988, ch. 659, § 1; P.L. 1998, ch. 379, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-46 - Open Meetings › Section 42-46-9. - Other applicable law.

§ 42-46-9. Other applicable law.
The provisions of this chapter shall be in addition to any and all other conditions or provisions of applicable law and are not to be construed to be in amendment of or in repeal of any other applicable provision of law, except § 16-2-29, which has been expressly repealed.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 330, § 2; P.L. 1977, ch. 111, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-46 - Open Meetings › Section 42-46-10. - Severability.

§ 42-46-10. Severability.
If any provision of this chapter, or the application of this chapter to any particular meeting or type of meeting, is held invalid or unconstitutional, the decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining provisions or the other applications of this chapter.
History of Section.
G.L. 1956, § 42-46-10; P.L. 1976, ch. 330, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-46 - Open Meetings › Section 42-46-11. - Reported violations.

§ 42-46-11. Reported violations.
Every year the attorney general shall prepare a report summarizing the complaints received pursuant to this chapter, which shall be submitted to the legislature and which shall include information as to how many complaints were found to be meritorious and the action taken by the attorney general in response to those complaints.
History of Section.
P.L. 1988, ch. 659, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-46 - Open Meetings › Section 42-46-12. - Notice of citizen’s rights under this chapter.

§ 42-46-12. Notice of citizen’s rights under this chapter.
The attorney general shall prepare a notice providing concise information explaining the requirements of this chapter and advising citizens of their right to file complaints for violations of this chapter. The notice shall be posted in a prominent location in each city and town hall in the state.
History of Section.
P.L. 1988, ch. 659, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-46 - Open Meetings › Section 42-46-13. - Accessibility for persons with disabilities.

§ 42-46-13. Accessibility for persons with disabilities.
(a)
All public bodies, to comply with the nondiscrimination on the basis of disability requirements of R.I. Const., Art. I, § 2 and applicable federal and state nondiscrimination laws (29 U.S.C. § 794, chapter 87 of this title, and chapter 24 of title 11), shall develop a transition plan setting forth the steps necessary to ensure that all open meetings of said public bodies are accessible to persons with disabilities.
(b)
The state building code standards committee shall, by September 1, 1989 adopt an accessibility of meetings for persons with disabilities standard that includes provisions ensuring that the meeting location is accessible to and usable by all persons with disabilities.
(c)
This section does not require the public body to make each of its existing facilities accessible to and usable by persons with disabilities so long as all meetings required to be open to the public pursuant to chapter 46 of this title are held in accessible facilities by the dates specified in subsection (e).
(d)
The public body may comply with the requirements of this section through such means as reassignment of meetings to accessible facilities, alteration of existing facilities, or construction of new facilities. The public body is not required to make structural changes in existing facilities where other methods are effective in achieving compliance with this section.
(e)
The public body shall comply with the obligations established under this section by July 1, 1990, except that where structural changes in facilities are necessary in order to comply with this section, such changes shall be made by December 30, 1991, but in any event as expeditiously as possible unless an extension is granted by the state building commissioner for good cause.
(f)
Each municipal government and school district shall, with the assistance of the state building commission, complete a transition plan covering the location of meetings for all public bodies under their jurisdiction. Each chief executive of each city or town and the superintendent of schools will submit their transition plan to the governor’s commission on disabilities for review and approval. The governor’s commission on disabilities with assistance from the state building commission shall approve or modify, with the concurrence of the municipal government or school district, the transition plans.
(g)
The provisions of §§ 45-13-7 — 45-13-10, inclusive, shall not apply to this section.
History of Section.
P.L. 1989, ch. 487, § 1; P.L. 1997, ch. 150, § 14.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-46 - Open Meetings › Section 42-46-14. - Burden of proof.

§ 42-46-14. Burden of proof.
In all actions brought under this chapter, the burden shall be on the public body to demonstrate that the meeting in dispute was properly closed pursuant to, or otherwise exempt from the terms of this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1998, ch. 379, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-47.1 - State Government Internship Program › Section 42-47.1-1. - Administration of internship program.

§ 42-47.1-1. Administration of internship program.
The state government internship program shall be administered by the joint committee on legislative services and all rights, powers and duties hereinbefore exercised by the commission on state government internships are hereby transferred to the joint committee on legislative services.
History of Section.
P.L. 2004, ch. 497, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-47.1 - State Government Internship Program › Section 42-47.1-2. - Purpose of intern program.

§ 42-47.1-2. Purpose of intern program.
The purpose of the state government intern program shall be to enable students and young persons to develop a knowledge of the structure and procedure of the state government in order to encourage them to take an active part in the civic life of the state and to further encourage them to enter government service.
History of Section.
P.L. 2004, ch. 497, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-47.1 - State Government Internship Program › Section 42-47.1-3. - Office space.

§ 42-47.1-3. Office space.
The director of administration shall provide adequate space in the state house for the use of the program; provided, however, that the program may conduct hearings and hold meetings elsewhere when doing so will better serve its purposes.
History of Section.
P.L. 2004, ch. 497, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-47.1 - State Government Internship Program › Section 42-47.1-4. - Grants, appropriations, and gifts.

§ 42-47.1-4. Grants, appropriations, and gifts.
The program shall be empowered to apply for and receive from any federal, state, or local agency, private foundation, or individual, any grants, appropriations, or gifts in order to carry out the purposes of the intern program.
History of Section.
P.L. 2004, ch. 497, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-47.1 - State Government Internship Program › Section 42-47.1-5. - Summer internships for students with disabilities.

§ 42-47.1-5. Summer internships for students with disabilities.
The program in consultation with the governor’s commission on disabilities and other agencies servicing people with disabilities shall establish a summer internship program for students with disabilities. The student interns shall be placed in state agencies for the purposes of enabling these individuals in establishing an awareness of the governmental process, and also develop academic skills and career goal awareness through experiential education.
History of Section.
P.L. 2004, ch. 497, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-49 - Little State Houses › Section 42-49-1. - Authority to establish little state houses.

§ 42-49-1. Authority to establish little state houses.
The governor is authorized to perform all acts necessary to establish and implement little state houses throughout the state of Rhode Island.
History of Section.
P.L. 1969, ch. 32, § 1; P.L. 1998, ch. 441, § 26.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-49 - Little State Houses › Section 42-49-2. - Functions.

§ 42-49-2. Functions.
The little state houses shall:
(1)
Hear complaints from individual citizens and entertain suggestions for improving functions of government;
(2)
Work to remedy complaints and to implement suggestions, where feasible;
(3)
Provide information and direct citizens to the appropriate governmental agency or department;
(4)
Where appropriate, point out shortcomings in governmental operations to the attention of the governor and state departments or agencies; and
(5)
Compile a list of complaints handled, suggestions received, and other services rendered into an annual report to be presented to the general assembly.
History of Section.
P.L. 1969, ch. 32, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-49 - Little State Houses › Section 42-49-3. - Where located.

§ 42-49-3. Where located.
The little state houses shall be situated to serve natural centers of business and population, so far as is possible, to provide easy access for the citizens of Rhode Island.
History of Section.
P.L. 1969, ch. 32, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-49 - Little State Houses › Section 42-49-4. - Personnel.

§ 42-49-4. Personnel.
The governor is empowered to appoint the personnel necessary for the orderly function of the little state houses, and to provide the training, support, and compensation necessary to ensure that these personnel are skilled in human relations techniques and have a wide knowledge of the services provided by state government.
History of Section.
P.L. 1969, ch. 32, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-49 - Little State Houses › Section 42-49-5. - Departmental cooperation.

§ 42-49-5. Departmental cooperation.
Each department of the state government shall assign one or more persons to act as liaison to the little state house staff. All departments and agencies of state government shall furnish advice, service, and information, documentary and otherwise, and cooperate fully and speedily with requests from the little state house staff.
History of Section.
P.L. 1969, ch. 32, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-51 - Governor’s Commission on Disabilities › Section 42-51-1. - Establishment of commission.

§ 42-51-1. Establishment of commission.
There is established within the executive department a permanent commission to be known as the “governor’s commission on disabilities,” hereinafter referred to as “the commission.”
History of Section.
P.L. 1970, ch. 159, § 1; P.L. 1985, ch. 62, § 2; P.L. 1997, ch. 150, § 16.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-51 - Governor’s Commission on Disabilities › Section 42-51-2. - Composition of commission.

§ 42-51-2. Composition of commission.
Effective on July 1, 2014, the commission shall be composed of eighteen (18) members. Insofar as practicable, the commission shall consist of people with disabilities and state leaders of industry, labor, business, veterans, women, and federal, state, and local governments, and representatives of religious, charitable, business, labor, industrial, fraternal, civic, educational, medical, legal, veterans, welfare, and other professional groups and organizations.
History of Section.
P.L. 1970, ch. 159, § 1; P.L. 1985, ch. 62, § 2; P.L. 1988, ch. 84, § 91; P.L. 2014, ch. 100, § 1; P.L. 2014, ch. 139, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-51 - Governor’s Commission on Disabilities › Section 42-51-3. - Officers.

§ 42-51-3. Officers.
The governor shall designate one member of the commission to serve as its chairperson during the governor’s term of office or until he or she appoints another member of the commission to serve in that capacity. The commission shall elect from its own membership a vice-chairperson, who shall serve until his or her successor is elected, and who is authorized to act as chairperson pro tempore of the commission should there be a vacancy for any cause in the office of the chairperson. The commission shall elect from its own membership other officers it deems necessary. The commission shall appoint an executive secretary to serve as executive officer and secretary of the commission, who shall be a full time employee. The commission may appoint additional personnel as may be necessary for the efficient performance of the duties prescribed by this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1970, ch. 159, § 1; P.L. 1985, ch. 62, § 2; P.L. 1992, ch. 215, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-51 - Governor’s Commission on Disabilities › Section 42-51-4. - Term of office.

§ 42-51-4. Term of office.
(a)
Of the number of members appointed originally under this chapter, one-third (⅓) shall be appointed for a term of one year; one-third (⅓) shall be appointed for a term of two (2) years; and one-third (⅓) shall be appointed for a term of three (3) years. Thereafter, vacancies created by the expiration of terms shall be filled with appointments for terms of three (3) years. Members whose terms expire may be reappointed to succeed themselves.
(b)
Effective on July 1, 2014, of the number of members appointed between July 1, 2014 and June 30, 2015, two (2) shall be appointed for a term of one year; two (2) shall be appointed for a term of two (2) years; and six (6) shall be appointed for a term of three (3) years. Thereafter, vacancies created by the expiration of terms shall be filled with appointments for terms of three (3) years. Members whose terms expire may be reappointed to succeed themselves.
History of Section.
P.L. 1970, ch. 159, § 1; P.L. 1985, ch. 62, § 2; P.L. 2014, ch. 100, § 1; P.L. 2014, ch. 139, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-51 - Governor’s Commission on Disabilities › Section 42-51-5. - Compensation and expenses.

§ 42-51-5. Compensation and expenses.
The members of the commission shall receive no compensation for their services, but may, at the discretion of the governor, be reimbursed for traveling and other expenses actually incurred in the performance of their official duties.
History of Section.
P.L. 1970, ch. 159, § 1; P.L. 1985, ch. 62, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-51 - Governor’s Commission on Disabilities › Section 42-51-6. - Duties.

§ 42-51-6. Duties.
It shall be the duty of the commission to work in cooperation with the National Council on Disability and other interested federal, state, and local agencies, organizations, and employers in:
(1)
Promoting on behalf of the people with disabilities and assuring, on behalf of the state, that people with disabilities are afforded the opportunities to exercise all of the rights and responsibilities accorded to citizens of this state;
(2)
Arousing community interest in the concerns of people with disabilities through the utilization of whatever community and state resources the commission may deem necessary to accomplish the maximum in independent living and human development;
(3)
Coordinating compliance with federal and state laws protecting the rights of individuals with disabilities by state agencies;
(4)
Providing technical assistance to public and private agencies, businesses, and citizens in complying with federal and state laws protecting the rights of individuals with disabilities; and
(5)
From time to time, but not less than once a year, to report to the legislature and the governor, describing the investigations, proceedings, and hearings the commission has conducted and their outcome, the decisions it has rendered, and the other work performed by it, and make recommendations for further legislation concerning abuses and discrimination based on disability that may be desirable.
History of Section.
P.L. 1970, ch. 159, § 1; P.L. 1985, ch. 62, § 2; P.L. 1992, ch. 215, § 1; P.L. 1997, ch. 150, § 16; P.L. 2003, ch. 340, § 1; P.L. 2003, ch. 359, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-51 - Governor’s Commission on Disabilities › Section 42-51-6.1. - Hearing boards.

§ 42-51-6.1. Hearing boards.
(a)
The commission’s chairperson shall appoint five (5) commissioners as the hearing board for the purpose of conducting hearings and rendering decisions on matters relating to the provisions of chapter 87 of this title and §§ 37-8-15.1 and 42-46-13 within the jurisdiction of the commission.
(b)
Three (3) commissioners shall constitute a quorum of a hearing board.
(c)
The hearing board is empowered to:
(1)
Receive, investigate, and act upon charges of unlawful practices within its jurisdiction; and
(2)
In connection with any investigation or hearing held on any matter within its jurisdiction to hold hearings, administer oaths, take the testimony of any person under oath, and to require the production for examination of any books and papers relating to any matter under investigation or in question before the hearing board.
History of Section.
P.L. 2003, ch. 340, § 2; P.L. 2003, ch. 359, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-51 - Governor’s Commission on Disabilities › Section 42-51-6.2. - Committees and mediation teams.

§ 42-51-6.2. Committees and mediation teams.
(a)
The commission is authorized to create advisory committees and mediation teams to perform tasks within the jurisdiction of the commission.
(b)
The commission may itself, or it may empower these committees and mediation teams to:
(1)
Study the concerns of people with disabilities in reaching the maximum in independent living and human development and exercising all of the rights and responsibilities accorded to citizens of this state;
(2)
Arouse community interest in the concerns of people with disabilities;
(3)
Foster through community effort or otherwise good will among the groups and elements of the population of the state towards people with disabilities; and
(4)
Attempt by informal methods of conference, persuasion, and conciliation, to induce compliance with matters within the jurisdiction of the commission.
(c)
The committees and teams may make recommendations to the commission for the development of policies and procedures in general.
(d)
Advisory committees and mediation teams created by the commission shall be composed of representative citizens serving without pay, but with reimbursement for actual and necessary traveling expenses.
(e)
Three (3) members of a committee constitutes a quorum for the purpose of conducting the business of that committee.
History of Section.
P.L. 2003, ch. 340, § 2; P.L. 2003, ch. 359, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-51 - Governor’s Commission on Disabilities › Section 42-51-7. - Gifts, grants, and donations.

§ 42-51-7. Gifts, grants, and donations.
The commission is authorized to receive any gifts, grants, or donations made for any of the purposes of its program, and to disburse and administer them in accordance with the terms of its program.
History of Section.
P.L. 1970, ch. 159, § 1; P.L. 1985, ch. 62, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-51 - Governor’s Commission on Disabilities › Section 42-51-8. - Transfer of personnel.

§ 42-51-8. Transfer of personnel.
(a)
All of the personnel and employees of the “governor’s committee on employment of the handicapped” shall be transferred to the “governor’s commission on the handicapped”. No person in the classified, non-classified, or unclassified service of the state on May 28, 1985 shall be discharged, separated from service, or downgraded in service by reason of the enactment of this chapter as provided by law or in the personnel rules and regulations of the state applicable to affected personnel.
(b)
All of the personnel and employees of the state building commission who enforce § 42-87-5 on August 1, 2002, shall be transferred to the governor’s commission on disabilities. No person in the classified, non-classified, or unclassified service of the state on August 1, 2002, shall be discharged, separated from service, or downgraded in service by reason of the enactment of this act as provided by law or in applicable personnel rules and regulations.
History of Section.
P.L. 1985, ch. 62, § 4; P.L. 2002, ch. 132, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-51 - Governor’s Commission on Disabilities › Section 42-51-10. - State coordinating committee on disability rights.

§ 42-51-10. State coordinating committee on disability rights.
The commission shall establish a state coordinating committee on disability rights to advise and assist the commission to implement self-evaluation and compliance plans as required by federal and state laws protecting the rights of individuals with disabilities. The committee shall be composed of thirteen (13) members who shall be as follows: one representative of each of the general officers of the state, appointed by that general officer; one representative of the house of representatives, appointed by the speaker of house; one representative of the senate, appointed by the president of the senate; one representative of the judiciary, appointed by the chief justice of the supreme court; one representative of each of the boards of education, appointed by the chairperson of that board; one representative of the public transit authority, appointed by the chairperson of the authority, and those additional representatives the chairperson of the governor’s commission on disabilities may appoint from the executive branch and the general public. Those persons acting as committee members on July 21, 1992 shall continue to so act until their successors are appointed. Each member shall serve at the pleasure of the appointing authority. The chairperson of the governor’s commission on disabilities shall preside at meetings of the committee. The executive secretary of the governor’s commission on disabilities shall serve as vice chairperson of the committee.
History of Section.
P.L. 1992, ch. 215, § 2; P.L. 1997, ch. 150, § 16; P.L. 2001, ch. 180, § 105.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-51 - Governor’s Commission on Disabilities › Section 42-51-11. - Mary Brennan fellowship fund.

§ 42-51-11. Mary Brennan fellowship fund.
(a)
There is established the Mary Brennan fellowship fund (“the fellowship fund”), which shall be utilized to create a fellowship program for students and young adults with disabilities.
(b)
These fellowships shall provide a semester-long, part-time placement with the commission in Rhode Island, working on disability policy and research. Each fellow will be assigned to a specific placement, providing assistance to the commission in disability policy. Mentor experiences will introduce the fellows to disability policy issues and actions at the local, state and federal levels. The fellowships will offer students an opportunity to:
(1)
Gain perspective on the role and responsibility of the commission;
(2)
Knowledge of national/state disability programs;
(3)
Policy issues and research;
(4)
Meet with decision makers, experts and critics in disability and related policy fields; and
(5)
Develop networks with local, regional, and national based experts, and researchers who can assist in career development and future endeavors.
(c)
The commission will provide each fellow with a stipend of at least one thousand five hundred dollars ($1,500) and reimbursement for authorized travel.
(d)
This fellowship program is designed for individuals with demonstrated interest in policy and research affecting people with disabilities. Applicants must have:
(1)
[Deleted by P.L. 2018, ch. 146, § 1 and P.L. 2018, ch. 238, § 1].
(2)
[Deleted by P.L. 2018, ch. 146, § 1 and P.L. 2018, ch. 238, § 1].
(3)
Leadership ability;
(4)
The endorsement of a current or former supervisor or teacher;
(5)
[Deleted by P.L. 2018, ch. 146, § 1 and P.L. 2018, ch. 238, § 1].
(6)
The ability to participate in the semester-long program for at least two hundred and forty (240) hours during the spring and fall semesters or in the summer.
(e)
The commission shall give preference in its selection of fellows to Rhode Island residents who are:
(1)
Students and young adults with disabilities, and then to;
(2)
College students enrolled in a course of study in education or human services for persons with disabilities.
(f)
The general assembly shall appropriate annually the sums it deems necessary to implement the purposes of this section.
(g)
The commission is authorized and empowered to receive donations and grants from sources including, but not limited to, the federal government, governmental and private foundations, and corporate and individual donors; these donations and grants to be deposited in the fellowship fund. The commission may create additional fellowships from available funds.
History of Section.
P.L. 1997, ch. 111, § 1; P.L. 1999, ch. 331, § 1; P.L. 1999, ch. 455, § 1; P.L. 2018, ch. 146, § 1; P.L. 2018, ch. 238, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-51 - Governor’s Commission on Disabilities › Section 42-51-12. - Designated state entity.

§ 42-51-12. Designated state entity.
(a)
The governor’s commission on disabilities shall be the designated state entity (DSE), pursuant to section 705(e) of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (29 U.S.C. § 796c). As the DSE, the commission shall apply for and:
(1)
Receive, account for, and disburse funds received by the state under Part B based on the state independent living plan (SILP);
(2)
Provide administrative support services for a program under Part B;
(3)
Keep such records, and afford such access to such records, as the administrator finds to be necessary with respect to the programs;
(4)
Submit such additional information or provide such assurances as the administrator may require with respect to the programs; and
(5)
Retain not more than five percent (5%) of the funds received by the state for any fiscal year under Part B, for the performance of the services outlined in subdivisions (a)(1) through (4) of this section. For purposes of these regulations, the five percent (5%) cap on funds for administrative expenses applies only to the Part B funds allocated to the state and to the state’s required ten percent (10%) Part B match. It does not apply to other program income funds, including, but not limited to, payments provided to the state from the social security administration for assisting social security beneficiaries and recipients to achieve employment outcomes, any other federal funds, or to other funds allocated by the state for IL purposes.
(b)
The DSE shall carry out its other responsibilities under the act, including, but not limited to, arranging for the delivery of IL services under Part B of the act, and for the necessary and sufficient resources needed by the statewide independent living council (SILC) to fulfill its statutory duties and authorities, as authorized in the approved state plan.
(c) Fiscal and accounting requirements:
The DSE shall adopt fiscal control and fund accounting procedures as may be necessary to ensure the proper disbursement of, and accounting for, federal funds provided to centers for independent living (CILs), SILCs, and/or other service providers under the independent living services (ILS) program. The DSE must comply with all applicable federal and state laws and regulations, including those in 45 C.F.R. part 75.
(d)
The SILC shall not be established as an entity within a state agency, including the DSE. The SILC shall be independent of and autonomous from the DSE and all other state agencies.
History of Section.
P.L. 2016, ch. 142, art. 4, § 19.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-51 - Governor’s Commission on Disabilities › Section 42-51-13. - Livable home modification program.

§ 42-51-13. Livable home modification program.
(a)
There is hereby established the livable home modification program for home modification and accessibility enhancements to construct, retrofit, and/or renovate residences to allow individuals with significant disabilities to remain in community settings.
(b)
Any eligible resident who retrofits or hires an individual to retrofit an existing residence, provided that, such retrofitting meets the qualification criteria and guidelines as established by the commission, shall be eligible for a livable home modification grant of fifty percent (50%) of the total amount spent, not to exceed an amount annually appropriated by the commission in accordance with § 35-3-24.
(c)
The commission is authorized and directed to issue regulations regarding:
(1)
Income eligibility and other qualifications for a grant;
(2)
Application guidelines;
(3)
The maximum reimbursement;
(4)
Filing claims for reimbursement; and
(5)
Appeal procedures for applicants who are determined to be ineligible.
(d)
By August 15 of each year, the commission shall submit an annual report to the governor, speaker of the house, senate president, and chairpersons of the house and senate finance committees for the period from July 1 to June 30 on the actual:
(1)
Number of grants issued to qualifying individuals;
(2)
Number of applications that did not qualify;
(3)
Total dollar amount of grants issued;
(4)
Average dollar amount of the grants issued;
(5)
Number of retrofits by accessibility features; and
(6)
Prognosis for the individual if the retrofit had not been made which shall determine:
(i)
Increased likelihood of falls and other related emergency room, hospital, and/or rehabilitation expenses;
(ii)
Loss of independence; and
(iii)
Move into a long-term-care facility.
History of Section.
P.L. 2021, ch. 162, art. 14, § 1, effective July 6, 2021.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-55 - Rhode Island Housing and Mortgage Finance Corporation › Section 42-55-1. - Short title.

§ 42-55-1. Short title.
This chapter shall be known and may be cited as the “Rhode Island Housing and Mortgage Finance Corporation Act”.
History of Section.
P.L. 1973, ch. 262, § 1; P.L. 1986, ch. 198, § 36.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-55 - Rhode Island Housing and Mortgage Finance Corporation › Section 42-55-5.1. - Subsidiary corporations.

§ 42-55-5.1. Subsidiary corporations.
(a)
To further its purposes, the corporation shall have the power to form one or more subsidiary corporations under either § 7-1.2-101 et seq. or § 7-6-1 et seq. in accordance with the procedures therein contained. Each subsidiary corporation shall be governed by the section under which it is formed, provided that each shall be subject to the same restrictions and limitations as to its powers and purposes to which the corporation is subject under this chapter and shall be deemed a state agency only for the purposes of § 42-46-1 et seq. and § 38-2-1 et seq. The corporation may delegate any of its powers, obligations, and duties under this chapter to any subsidiary corporation by inclusion of its powers, obligations, and duties in the articles of incorporation of the subsidiary corporation. Subsidiary corporations so formed shall constitute legal entities separate and distinct from each other, the corporation, and the state. The corporation shall not be liable for the debts or obligations or for any actions or inactions of its subsidiary corporations unless the corporation expressly agrees otherwise in writing. The corporation may make loans or grants to a subsidiary corporation from time to time to enable the subsidiary corporation to carry out its purposes. The commissioners of the corporation shall constitute all of the directors of each subsidiary corporation.
(b)
The state, any municipality or any state commission, public authority, agency, officer, department, board, or division authorized and empowered to enter into agreements with, to grant, convey, lease, or otherwise transfer any property to, or to otherwise transact business with the corporation, shall have the same authorization and power to engage in these activities with each subsidiary corporation of the corporation.
(c)
Any subsidiary entity of the corporation whose principal purpose is the acquisition or betterment of real property is, subject to the period of limitations set forth in § 9-1-25, liable in actions of tort only to the extent that those actions do not arise from the performance of any functions found or deemed to be essential or discretionary governmental functions. Any recovery in an action or any recovery by any person in one or more of any actions against the subsidiary entity, its directors, employees, or agents shall not exceed one hundred thousand dollars ($100,000) per plaintiff in the absence of fraud or willful misconduct. In the absence of fraud or willful misconduct, the directors are not personally liable to any party on account of any action (whether tort or otherwise) arising from or related to the manner or terms of the disposition of the subsidiary’s assets, nor shall the manner or terms of the disposition constitute a defense to any obligation owed to the corporation.
History of Section.
P.L. 1988, ch. 617, § 3; P.L. 2005, ch. 36, § 26; P.L. 2005, ch. 72, § 26; P.L. 2023, ch. 79, art. 6, § 1, effective June 16, 2023.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-55 - Rhode Island Housing and Mortgage Finance Corporation › Section 42-55-5.2. - Consistency with plans.

§ 42-55-5.2. Consistency with plans.
The corporation shall exercise its powers under this chapter in a manner that is consistent on a programmatic basis with the state guide plan, adopted pursuant to § 42-11-10 and with local comprehensive plans, prepared and adopted pursuant to chapter 22.2 of title 45, that have been approved as consistent with the state guide plan.
History of Section.
P.L. 2004, ch. 286, § 3; P.L. 2004, ch. 324, § 3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-55 - Rhode Island Housing and Mortgage Finance Corporation › Section 42-55-5.3. - Letters of eligibility.

§ 42-55-5.3. Letters of eligibility.
The corporation shall issue all letters of eligibility for low- and moderate-income housing for applications made pursuant to chapter 53 of title 45.
(a)
Evaluation of requests for letters of eligibility:
(1)
The corporation shall establish for each application:
(i)
The name and address of the applicant;
(ii)
The address of the site and site description;
(iii)
The number and type (homeownership or rental) of housing units proposed;
(iv)
The name of the housing program under which project eligibility is sought;
(v)
Relevant details of the particular project if not mandated by the housing program (including percentage of units for low- or moderate-income households, income eligibility standards, the duration of restrictions requiring low- or moderate-income housing); and
(2)
The corporation shall determine:
(i)
That the proposed project appears generally eligible under the requirements of the housing program, subject to final review of eligibility and to final approval;
(ii)
That the subsidizing agency, or the corporation, has performed an on-site inspection of the site and has reviewed pertinent information submitted by the applicant;
(iii)
That an initial pro forma has been reviewed and the project appears financially feasible on the basis of estimated development costs;
(iv)
That the developer meets the general eligibility standards of the housing program; and
(v)
That the applicant controls the site.
(b)
The corporation shall provide a copy of the letter of eligibility to the administrative officer of the local review board of the city or town in which the project would be located.
(c)
[Deleted by P.L. 2022, ch. 407, § 2 and P.L. 2022, ch. 408, § 2.]
History of Section.
P.L. 2004, ch. 286, § 3; P.L. 2004, ch. 324, § 3; P.L. 2022, ch. 407, § 2, effective June 30, 2022; P.L. 2022, ch. 408, § 2, effective June 30, 2022.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-55 - Rhode Island Housing and Mortgage Finance Corporation › Section 42-55-5.4. - Renewable energy in housing developments.

§ 42-55-5.4. Renewable energy in housing developments.
On or before July 1, 2009, the corporation shall establish, in appropriate housing development programs it administers, criteria for priority consideration of housing development proposals which include renewable energy features which are demonstrated to be cost-effective and can be implemented in a reasonable period of time.
History of Section.
P.L. 2008, ch. 228, § 5; P.L. 2008, ch. 422, § 5.