reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-20 - Ownership of Electric-Generating Facilities › Section 39-20-10. - Issuance of securities to finance electric-generating facilities.

§ 39-20-10. Issuance of securities to finance electric-generating facilities.
(a)
The purposes for which a domestic public utility may issue stocks, bonds, or other evidences of indebtedness, payable more than twelve (12) months from date of issue, pursuant to §§ 39-3-15, 39-3-17 — 39-3-19, and 39-3-21 shall include the acquisition of ownership of, or other interests in, electric-generating facilities, within or without this state, or portions thereof.
(b)
Notwithstanding the provisions of § 39-3-20, any foreign electric utility, other than a governmental entity, that owns and operates any electric-generating facilities within this state or portions thereof shall be subject to the provisions of §§ 39-3-15, 39-3-17 — 39-3-19, and § 39-3-21 and other regulatory laws within the state with respect to any financing of the cost of its acquisition of ownership of or other interests in the electric-generating facilities, including the issuance of stocks, bonds, or other evidences of indebtedness payable more than twelve (12) months from the date of issue; provided, however, that it shall be exempt from the provisions of this subsection upon the filing with the commission of certification by a regulatory commission of the state of domicile or principal locus of the foreign electric utility, or of the United States, that the regulatory commission has regulatory jurisdiction over the financing of the foreign electric utility.
History of Section.
P.L. 1975, ch. 215, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-20 - Ownership of Electric-Generating Facilities › Section 39-20-11. - Zoning and other municipal regulation.

§ 39-20-11. Zoning and other municipal regulation.
For purposes of § 39-1-30, any domestic and foreign electric utility that owns or participates in the ownership of any plant, building, wires, conductors, fixtures, structures, equipment, or apparatus in this state pursuant to this chapter shall be considered a company under the supervision of the commission.
History of Section.
P.L. 1975, ch. 215, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-20 - Ownership of Electric-Generating Facilities › Section 39-20-12. - Construction and severability.

§ 39-20-12. Construction and severability.
This chapter shall be construed in all respects so as to meet all constitutional requirements. Except as expressly provided for in this chapter, the provisions of this chapter shall not affect the interpretation of other laws. If any provision of this chapter shall be held unconstitutional, the unconstitutionality shall not affect any other provisions.
History of Section.
P.L. 1975, ch. 215, § 1; P.L. 1997, ch. 326, § 121.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-21 - E-911 Uniform Emergency Telephone System Division › Section 39-21-1. - Legislative findings.

§ 39-21-1. Legislative findings.
It is hereby found and disclosed that:
(1)
E-911 uniform emergency telephone system is a feasible service and would be beneficial for the citizens of Rhode Island;
(2)
E-911 uniform emergency telephone system employs features that contribute to the protection of life and property and add to the operational efficiency of various public safety agencies;
(3)
E-911 uniform emergency telephone system affords our residents a more simple and faster means to request assistance in an emergency and, in addition, enables the various agencies to process emergency calls in a more efficient manner than at present;
(4)
E-911 uniform emergency telephone system benefits are extremely valuable and this service would be an enhancement to the quality of life throughout our state; and
(5)
Changes in consumer habits require that the state E-911 uniform emergency telephone system take the steps necessary to ensure that its operating capabilities are in line with new technologies and practices.
History of Section.
P.L. 1984, ch. 155, art. 6, § 1; P.L. 2016, ch. 516, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-21 - E-911 Uniform Emergency Telephone System Division › Section 39-21-2. - Establishment of the E-911 uniform emergency telephone system division.

§ 39-21-2. Establishment of the E-911 uniform emergency telephone system division.
There is hereby established within the department of public safety the E-911 uniform emergency telephone system division with all powers and authority necessary for acquiring, planning, designing, constructing, extending, improving, operating, maintaining, and updating the uniform emergency telephone system in this state to conform with national standards and support national internetworking of 9-1-1 services.
History of Section.
P.L. 1989, ch. 126, art. 36, § 5; P.L. 2008, ch. 100, art. 9, § 8; P.L. 2016, ch. 516, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-21 - E-911 Uniform Emergency Telephone System Division › Section 39-21-3. - Personnel.

§ 39-21-3. Personnel.
(a)
The governor shall appoint an associate director of the E-911 uniform emergency telephone system division who shall direct the affairs of the division. The division may employ technical experts, and other officers, agents, and attorneys, and fix their qualifications, duties, and compensation. The associate director and the technical experts, officers, agents, and attorneys so employed shall be in the unclassified service of the state. The division may employ other employees, permanent and temporary, and the employees shall be in the unclassified service of the state. The division may delegate to one or more of its agents or employees such administrative duties as it may deem proper.
(b)
The department of administration shall furnish the division with suitable offices and telephone service in the state house, state office building, or some other location, for the transaction of business.
History of Section.
P.L. 1989, ch. 126, art. 36, § 5; P.L. 2008, ch. 100, art. 9, § 8.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-21 - E-911 Uniform Emergency Telephone System Division › Section 39-21-4. - Advisory commission.

§ 39-21-4. Advisory commission.
(a)
There shall be an E-911 uniform emergency telephone system advisory commission consisting of fourteen (14) members to be appointed in the following manner: five (5) members shall be the director of the department of health, or his or her designee, the fire marshal, or his or her designee, the colonel of the Rhode Island state police, or his or her designee, the state telecommunications director, or his or her designee, and the administrator of the division of public utilities and carriers, or his or her designee; three (3) members shall be appointed by the speaker of the house: one of whom shall be a member of the house of representatives, and one of whom shall be a representative of the police chiefs’ association, and one of whom shall be a representative of the telecommunication services provider that is the primary provider to the E-911 PSAP; three (3) members shall be appointed by the president of the senate: one of whom shall be a member of the senate, one of whom shall be a representative of the fire chiefs’ association, and one of whom shall be a representative of the wireless telecommunication industry; and three (3) members shall be appointed by the governor: two (2) of whom shall be representatives of the public, and one of whom shall be a representative of the Rhode Island League of Cities and Towns.
(b)
Members of the commission shall serve five-year (5) terms, except for ex officio members.
(c)
The advisory commission may make such recommendations and give such advice to the executive director of the division as it deems appropriate.
History of Section.
P.L. 1989, ch. 126, art. 36, § 5; P.L. 1998, ch. 150, § 2; P.L. 2001, ch. 180, § 82.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-21 - E-911 Uniform Emergency Telephone System Division › Section 39-21-5. - Other references to E-911 uniform emergency telephone system — References to “the project” or to “9-1-1 system.”

§ 39-21-5. Other references to E-911 uniform emergency telephone system — References to “the project” or to “9-1-1 system.”
(a)
Wherever in the Rhode Island general laws, chapters 21 and 21.1 of title 39, reference is made to the “E-911 uniform emergency telephone system,” or to “the E-9-1-1 Uniform Emergency Telephone System Authority,” or to “the E-9-1-1 authority,” or to “the division” or to “E-9-1-1” or to “Next Generation 9-1-1,” or “NG 9-1-1” or “Text-to-9-1-1,” as an entity, it shall be deemed to mean the E-911 uniform emergency telephone system division within the executive department.
(b)
Wherever in the Rhode Island general laws, chapters 21 and 21.1 of title 39, reference is made to “the project” or to “911 system,” it shall be deemed to mean the E-911 uniform emergency telephone system and its respective functions and operations.
History of Section.
P.L. 1989, ch. 126, art. 36, § 5; P.L. 2002, ch. 206, § 1; P.L. 2002, ch. 261, § 1; P.L. 2016, ch. 516, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-21 - E-911 Uniform Emergency Telephone System Division › Section 39-21-6. - Cooperation with federal government.

§ 39-21-6. Cooperation with federal government.
(a)
The division shall have full and complete authority to cooperate with and assist the federal government in all matters relating to the planning, constructing, equipping, maintenance, and operation of the project in the event that the federal government should make any federal funds or federal assistance available therefor.
(b)
The division, or any officers or executives designated by it, may act as agent of the federal government in accordance with the requirements of any federal legislation related to federal assistance.
(c)
The division is hereby authorized to accept the provisions of any federal legislation, and may file written evidence of each acceptance with the federal government. Each acceptance shall be duly signed by the associate director or such other person or persons as the governor or director of public safety may designate.
(d)
The division may enter into all necessary contracts and agreements with the federal or state governments, or any agency thereof, necessary or incident to the project, and all contracts and agreements shall be signed in the name of the division by the associate director or some other person or persons designated by the governor or director of public safety.
History of Section.
P.L. 1989, ch. 126, art. 36, § 5; P.L. 2008, ch. 100, art. 9, § 8.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-21 - E-911 Uniform Emergency Telephone System Division › Section 39-21-7. - Applications for federal and state aid.

§ 39-21-7. Applications for federal and state aid.
Whenever it shall be necessary to obtain assistance from the federal or state government in the form of loans, advances, grants, subsidies, and otherwise, directly or indirectly, for the execution of the project, the division may make all necessary applications for such purposes. All applications shall be made in writing in the name of the division and shall be duly signed by the associate director or other person or persons as the governor or director of public safety may designate.
History of Section.
P.L. 1989, ch. 126, art. 36, § 5; P.L. 2008, ch. 100, art. 9, § 8.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-21 - E-911 Uniform Emergency Telephone System Division › Section 39-21-8. - Use of federal and state funds.

§ 39-21-8. Use of federal and state funds.
The division may, for the purpose of carrying out the project or any part thereof authorized by this chapter, accept or use any federal or state funds or assistance, or both, provided thereof under any federal or state law. In the event that federal or state funds or assistance are made available for execution of the project, the project shall be carried out and executed in all respect subject to the provisions of the appropriate federal and state laws providing for the construction and operation of such projects, and the rules and regulations made pursuant thereto, and to such terms, conditions, rules, and regulations, not inconsistent with such federal and state law, rules, and regulations, as the division may establish to ensure the proper execution of the project.
History of Section.
P.L. 1989, ch. 126, art. 36, § 5; P.L. 1997, ch. 326, § 122.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-21 - E-911 Uniform Emergency Telephone System Division › Section 39-21-9. - Receipt and deposit of federal funds.

§ 39-21-9. Receipt and deposit of federal funds.
All money paid to the division by the federal government for the purpose of executing a project shall be received by the general treasurer and by him or her deposited in the fund, and the division shall forthwith use the money for the payment of debt service on, or the recall or the redemption of, bonds and notes issued by the state in anticipation of federal project payments.
History of Section.
P.L. 1989, ch. 126, art. 36, § 5.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-21 - E-911 Uniform Emergency Telephone System Division › Section 39-21-10. - Appropriation of revenues.

§ 39-21-10. Appropriation of revenues.
With the exception of money received by the division from the sale or licensing of communications and educational materials regarding the use of 911 as a uniform emergency telephone number and system, all money received by the division for the use of the facilities of the project shall be paid over to the general treasurer and by him or her deposited in the fund. All money in the fund is hereby appropriated by the provisions of the chapter to be expended by the division for administration and all expenses relating to the planning, construction, equipping, operation, and maintenance of the project; and the state controller is hereby authorized and directed to draw his or her orders upon the general treasurer for the payment of such sum or sums as may be necessary from time to time. All money received by the division for the sale or licensing of communications and educational materials as described in this chapter shall be deposited into a separate account or fund by the general treasurer for the sole restricted purpose of financially supporting the creation, distribution, and use of public educational materials regarding the use of 911 as a uniform emergency telephone number and system. For these purposes, the state controller is hereby authorized and directed to draw his or her orders upon the general treasurer for the payment of such sum or sums as may be necessary, from time to time, as determined by the associate director, or his or her designee.
History of Section.
P.L. 1989, ch. 126, art. 36, § 5; P.L. 1997, ch. 326, § 122; P.L. 2008, ch. 100, art. 9, § 8; P.L. 2020, ch. 79, art. 1, § 12.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-21 - E-911 Uniform Emergency Telephone System Division › Section 39-21-11. - Rules and regulations — Review.

§ 39-21-11. Rules and regulations — Review.
The division may adopt rules and regulations, or any amendment to existing rules and regulations, according to the provisions of chapter 35 of title 42. The division shall also give notice thereof, prior to the effective date thereof, by sending by registered or certified mail a copy thereof to each person interested therein who shall have registered with the division his or her name and address, with a request to be so notified. Review of the rules may be had as provided in chapter 35 of title 42.
History of Section.
P.L. 1989, ch. 126, art. 36, § 5.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-21 - E-911 Uniform Emergency Telephone System Division › Section 39-21-12. - Cost of E-911 service to provider.

§ 39-21-12. Cost of E-911 service to provider.
The telephone common carrier shall recover the necessary capital and operating costs of providing access for E-911 within the common carrier’s tariff rates for E-911 service. The common carrier is directed to establish and file with the public utilities commission a tariff with rates recovering the capital and operating costs of providing access to the network.
History of Section.
P.L. 1989, ch. 126, art. 36, § 5; P.L. 1989, ch. 126, art. 45, § 1; P.L. 1992, ch. 133, art. 65, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-21 - E-911 Uniform Emergency Telephone System Division › Section 39-21-13. - Division expenses as cost of project.

§ 39-21-13. Division expenses as cost of project.
The expenses of the division in the performance of its duties under this chapter shall be construed to be costs of operation and maintenance of the project.
History of Section.
P.L. 1989, ch. 126, art. 36, § 5; P.L. 1997, ch. 326, § 122.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-21 - E-911 Uniform Emergency Telephone System Division › Section 39-21-14. - Cooperation and coordination with other agencies.

§ 39-21-14. Cooperation and coordination with other agencies.
In the performance of its duties under this chapter, the division shall be entitled to ask for and to receive from any public or private agency and any other commission, board, officer, agency, or municipal subdivision of the state such information, cooperation, assistance, and advice as shall be reasonable and proper in view of the nature of its functions.
History of Section.
P.L. 1989, ch. 126, art. 36, § 5; P.L. 1997, ch. 326, § 122; P.L. 2002, ch. 206, § 1; P.L. 2002, ch. 261, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-21 - E-911 Uniform Emergency Telephone System Division › Section 39-21-15. - Liberal construction.

§ 39-21-15. Liberal construction.
The provisions of this chapter shall be construed liberally in order to accomplish the purposes hereof, and where any specific power is given to the division by the provisions hereof, the statement shall not be deemed to exclude or impair any power otherwise in this chapter conferred upon the division.
History of Section.
P.L. 1989, ch. 126, art. 36, § 5.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-21 - E-911 Uniform Emergency Telephone System Division › Section 39-21-16. - State agencies — Toll-free telephone line.

§ 39-21-16. State agencies — Toll-free telephone line.
The state shall provide, for the use of the general public, a toll-free watts telephone line and number for each public agency that utilizes the 277 exchange.
History of Section.
P.L. 1989, ch. 126, art. 36, § 5.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-21 - E-911 Uniform Emergency Telephone System Division › Section 39-21-17. - Next generation 911.

§ 39-21-17. Next generation 911.
The E-911 uniform emergency telephone system division shall take all steps necessary to implement “Next Generation-9-1-1,” “NG 9-1-1,” or “Text-to-9-1-1” technologies as soon as practicable, and report back to the general assembly no later than March 30, 2017, a timeline that anticipates the date of completion.
History of Section.
P.L. 2016, ch. 516, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-21.1 - 911 Emergency Telephone Number Act › Section 39-21.1-2. - Short title.

§ 39-21.1-2. Short title.
This chapter may be cited as the “911 Emergency Telephone Number Act.”
History of Section.
P.L. 1986, ch. 152, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-21.1 - 911 Emergency Telephone Number Act › Section 39-21.1-6. - Other agencies — E-911 authority.

§ 39-21.1-6. Other agencies — E-911 authority.
The 911 authority, or any other agency that may replace it, shall plan, implement, and operate the 911 system, as provided by this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1986, ch. 152, § 1; P.L. 1987, ch. 236, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-21.1 - 911 Emergency Telephone Number Act › Section 39-21.1-7. - Methods of handling emergency telephone calls.

§ 39-21.1-7. Methods of handling emergency telephone calls.
The 911 system designs should include provisions for expansion to include capabilities not required in initial implementation. The public safety answering point may handle nonemergency calls by referring the caller to another number.
History of Section.
P.L. 1986, ch. 152, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-21.1 - 911 Emergency Telephone Number Act › Section 39-21.1-8. - Emergency services included in system.

§ 39-21.1-8. Emergency services included in system.
(a)
The 911 system shall be capable of transmitting requests for law enforcement, firefighting, and emergency medical and ambulance services to a public safety agency or agencies that provide the requested service at the place where the call originates. In response to requests for emergency medical or ambulance services, the 911 system dispatchers shall also provide for the communication of instructions to callers during the period before the arrival of emergency responders. By September 1, 2022, the 911 system shall include telecommunicator cardiopulmonary resuscitation (“T-CPR”), provided by certified emergency medical dispatchers (EMD) who have satisfactorily completed a training course that meets the requirements of the U.S. Department of Transportation, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Emergency Medical Dispatch (EMD); National Standard Curriculum, as from time to time amended, and any other requirements pursuant to § 23-4.1-3(c). The 911 system may also provide for transmittal of requests for other emergency services, such as poison control, suicide prevention, and civil defense. Conferencing capability with counseling, aid to persons with disabilities, and other services as deemed necessary for emergency response determination may be provided by the 911 system.
(b)
Any unit of any agency or municipality in this state that provides law enforcement, firefighting, medical, or ambulance services to an area shall be part of the 911 system. The 911 public safety answering point may transmit emergency response requests to private safety agencies.
(c)
Automatic intrusion alarms and other automatic alerting devices shall not be installed so as to cause the number 911 to be dialed in order to directly access emergency services.
(d)
A comprehensive call review and quality improvement program including, but not limited to, all cardiac arrest and critical calls as well as a random sampling of all calls from the emergency telephone system shall be established.
(e)
All 911 system dispatchers shall be certified in EMD and trained in telecommunicator cardiopulmonary resuscitation (“T-CPR”) to coach a person calling in about a cardiac arrest incident until the rescue or other emergency service unit arrives. EMD continuing education shall be provided for 911 system dispatchers.
(f)
No 911 system operator who renders emergency assistance to a person in need thereof shall be liable for civil damages that result from acts or omissions by the person rendering the emergency care, which may constitute ordinary negligence. This immunity does not apply to acts or omissions constituting gross negligence or willful or wanton conduct.
History of Section.
P.L. 1986, ch. 152, § 1; P.L. 1987, ch. 236, § 1; P.L. 1999, ch. 83, § 90; P.L. 1999, ch. 130, § 90; P.L. 2021, ch. 82, § 1, effective June 23, 2021; P.L. 2021, ch. 83, § 1, effective June 23, 2021.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-21.1 - 911 Emergency Telephone Number Act › Section 39-21.1-9. - Pay telephones, dialing without a coin.

§ 39-21.1-9. Pay telephones, dialing without a coin.
Every pay station telephone of a telephone common carrier served from a central office having a dial-tone-first capability shall permit a caller to dial 911, or to reach an operator by dialing “0,” without first inserting a coin or paying any other charge. No telephone common carrier shall eliminate the dial-tone-first capability from any central office having this capability on June 13, 1986.
History of Section.
P.L. 1986, ch. 152, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-21.1 - 911 Emergency Telephone Number Act › Section 39-21.1-10. - Development of a statewide plan and technical standards.

§ 39-21.1-10. Development of a statewide plan and technical standards.
(a)
On or before July 1, 1987, the E-911 uniform emergency telephone system division shall publish an overall plan that it has developed for implementing 911 service in Rhode Island in accordance with the provisions of this chapter. The plan shall include technical and operational standards for 911 systems. Public agencies shall comply with these standards.
(b)
The E-911 uniform emergency telephone system division, or any other agency that may replace it, may promulgate rules and regulations related to telecommunication service providers as are just and reasonable and in the public interest to implement the provisions of this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1986, ch. 152, § 1; P.L. 1987, ch. 236, § 1; P.L. 1998, ch. 150, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-21.1 - 911 Emergency Telephone Number Act › Section 39-21.1-11. - System coordination.

§ 39-21.1-11. System coordination.
Each local public agency shall designate a coordinator who shall serve as the point of contact in working with the 911 authority or any other agency that may replace it.
History of Section.
P.L. 1986, ch. 152, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-21.1 - 911 Emergency Telephone Number Act › Section 39-21.1-12. - Enforcement of compliance by judicial proceedings.

§ 39-21.1-12. Enforcement of compliance by judicial proceedings.
The attorney general shall, at the request of the E-911 uniform emergency telephone system division, or any other agency that may replace it, or on its own initiative, commence judicial proceedings in the superior court against any public agency, municipality, or telecommunication services provider providing communication services to enforce the provisions of this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1986, ch. 152, § 1; P.L. 1998, ch. 150, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-21.1 - 911 Emergency Telephone Number Act › Section 39-21.1-13. - Provision of emergency services across jurisdictional boundaries — Joint power or other agreements.

§ 39-21.1-13. Provision of emergency services across jurisdictional boundaries — Joint power or other agreements.
(a)
A public safety agency that receives a request for emergency service outside its jurisdictional or operational boundaries shall promptly forward the request, utilizing the transfer or relay method, to the public safety answering point or public safety agency responsible for that geographical area.
(b)
Once a public safety answering point or public safety agency dispatches an emergency unit, the unit shall render its services to the requesting party without regard to the unit’s normal jurisdictional boundaries, until it is properly relieved by the public safety agency responsible for that geographical area.
(c)
Public agencies within a single system, and public agencies in different systems but which share common boundary lines, are authorized to enter into joint power agreements or other written cooperative agreements to implement these requirements. These agreements may further provide for a public safety agency to render aid outside its normal jurisdictional boundaries on a regular basis.
History of Section.
P.L. 1986, ch. 152, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-21.1 - 911 Emergency Telephone Number Act › Section 39-21.1-15. - Severability.

§ 39-21.1-15. Severability.
If any provision of this chapter or the application thereof to any person or circumstances is held invalid, the invalidity shall not affect other provisions or applications of the chapter that can be given effect without the invalid provision or application, and to this end the provisions of this chapter are declared to be severable.
History of Section.
P.L. 1986, ch. 152, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-21.1 - 911 Emergency Telephone Number Act › Section 39-21.1-16. - Providing false information.

§ 39-21.1-16. Providing false information.
No person shall call or otherwise cause the number nine-one-one (911) to be called for the purpose of knowingly making a false alarm or complaint or reporting false information that could result in the dispatch of emergency services from any public agency as defined in § 39-21.1-3(7). Any person violating the provisions of this section, upon conviction, shall be guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of not more than one thousand dollars ($1,000) or imprisonment for a term not exceeding one year, or both.
History of Section.
P.L. 1988, ch. 90, § 1; P.L. 2020, ch. 79, art. 1, § 13.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-21.1 - 911 Emergency Telephone Number Act › Section 39-21.1-17. - Confidentiality of calls.

§ 39-21.1-17. Confidentiality of calls.
All telephone calls and telephone call transmissions received pursuant to this chapter and all tapes containing records of telephone calls shall remain confidential and used only for the purpose of handling emergency calls and for public safety purposes as may be needed for law enforcement, fire, medical, rescue or other emergency services. The calls shall not be released to any other parties without the written consent of the caller whose voice is recorded, or upon order of the court.
History of Section.
P.L. 1996, ch. 180, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-21.1 - 911 Emergency Telephone Number Act › Section 39-21.1-18. - First responder services.

§ 39-21.1-18. First responder services.
In emergency situations that require emergency medical transportation services and arise out of a 911 emergency telephone system request, only those ambulance services that are operated by municipalities, for municipalities by contracted services, by fire districts, or nonprofit corporations shall be used.
History of Section.
P.L. 1999, ch. 337, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-21.2 - Prepaid Wireless Charge Act › Section 39-21.2-1. - Short title.

§ 39-21.2-1. Short title.
This act may be cited as the “Prepaid Wireless Charge Act of 2010.”
History of Section.
P.L. 2010, ch. 23, art. 9, § 12; P.L. 2018, ch. 47, art. 7, § 10.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-21.2 - Prepaid Wireless Charge Act › Section 39-21.2-2. - Findings.

§ 39-21.2-2. Findings.
The legislature finds that:
(1)
Maintaining effective and efficient emergency services across the state benefits all citizens;
(2)
911 fees imposed upon the consumers of telecommunications services that have the ability to dial 911 are an important funding mechanism to assist state and local governments with the deployment of emergency services to the citizens of this state;
(3)
Prepaid wireless telecommunication services are an important segment of the telecommunications industry and have proven particularly attractive to low-income, low-volume consumers;
(4)
Unlike traditional telecommunications services, prepaid wireless telecommunications services are not sold or used pursuant to term contracts or subscriptions, and monthly bills are not sent to consumers by prepaid wireless telecommunication services providers or retail vendors;
(5)
Prepaid wireless consumers have the same access to emergency 911 services from their wireless devices as wireless consumers on term contracts, and prepaid wireless consumers benefit from the ability to access the 911 system by dialing 911;
(6)
Consumers purchase prepaid wireless telecommunication services at a wide variety of general retail locations and other distribution channels, not just through service providers;
(7)
Such purchases are made on a “cash-and-carry” or “pay-as-you-go” basis from retailers; and
(8)
To ensure equitable contributions to the funding of emergency systems from consumers of prepaid wireless telecommunication services, the collection and payment obligation of charges to support E-911 should be imposed upon the consumer’s retail purchase of the prepaid wireless telecommunication service and should be in the form of a single, statewide charge that is collected once at the time of purchase directly from the consumer, remitted to the state, and distributed to E-911 authorities pursuant to state law.
History of Section.
P.L. 2010, ch. 23, art. 9, § 12; P.L. 2018, ch. 47, art. 7, § 10; P.L. 2019, ch. 88, art. 2, § 9.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-21.2 - Prepaid Wireless Charge Act › Section 39-21.2-3. - Definitions.

§ 39-21.2-3. Definitions.
For purposes of this chapter, the following terms shall have the following meanings:
(1)
“Consumer” means a person who purchases prepaid wireless telecommunications service in a retail transaction.
(2)
“Division” means the division of taxation.
(3)
“Prepaid wireless charge” means the charge that is required to be collected by a seller from a consumer in the amount established under § 39-21.2-4.
(4)
“Prepaid wireless telecommunications service” means a wireless telecommunications service that allows a caller to dial 911 to access the 911 system, which service must be paid for in advance and is sold in predetermined units or dollars of which the number declines with use in a known amount.
(5)
“Provider” means a person who or that provides prepaid wireless telecommunications service pursuant to a license issued by the Federal Communications Commission.
(6)
“Retail transaction” means the purchase of prepaid wireless telecommunications service from a seller for any purpose other than resale.
(7)
“Seller” means a person who or that sells prepaid wireless telecommunications service to another person.
(8)
“Wireless telecommunications service” means commercial mobile radio service as defined by 47 C.F.R. § 20.3, as amended.
History of Section.
P.L. 2010, ch. 23, art. 9, § 12; P.L. 2018, ch. 47, art. 7, § 10; P.L. 2020, ch. 79, art. 1, § 14.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-21.2 - Prepaid Wireless Charge Act › Section 39-21.2-5. - Administration of E-911 charge.

§ 39-21.2-5. Administration of E-911 charge.
(a) Time and manner of payment.
Prepaid wireless E-911 charges collected by sellers shall be remitted to the division at the times and in the manner provided by the streamlined sales and use tax as described in § 44-18.1-34. The division shall establish registration and payment procedures that substantially coincide with the registration and payment procedures that apply to the streamlined sales and use tax.
(b) Seller administrative deduction.
A seller shall be permitted to deduct and retain one percent (1%) of prepaid wireless E-911 charges that are collected by the seller from consumers.
(c) Audit and appeal procedures.
The audit and appeal procedures applicable to sales and use tax under chapter 19 of title 44 shall apply to prepaid wireless E-911 charges.
(d) Exemption documentation.
The division shall establish procedures by which a seller of prepaid wireless telecommunications service may document that a sale is not a retail transaction, which procedures shall substantially coincide with the procedures for documenting sale for resale transactions for sales tax purposes under § 44-18-25.
(e)
All E-911 fees collected pursuant to this section shall be deposited in a restricted-receipt account and used solely for the operation of the E-911 uniform emergency telephone system.
History of Section.
P.L. 2010, ch. 23, art. 9, § 12; P.L. 2019, ch. 88, art. 2, § 9; P.L. 2020, ch. 79, art. 1, § 14.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-21.2 - Prepaid Wireless Charge Act › Section 39-21.2-6. - Liability.

§ 39-21.2-6. Liability.
No liability regarding 911 service.
No provider or seller of prepaid wireless telecommunications service shall be liable for damages to any person resulting from or incurred in connection with the provision of, or failure to provide, 911 or E-911 service, or for identifying, or failing to identify, the telephone number, address, location, or name associated with any person or device that is accessing or attempting to access 911 or E-911 service.
History of Section.
P.L. 2010, ch. 23, art. 9, § 12.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-21.2 - Prepaid Wireless Charge Act › Section 39-21.2-7. - Exclusivity of prepaid wireless charge.

§ 39-21.2-7. Exclusivity of prepaid wireless charge.
The prepaid wireless charge imposed by this act shall be the only E-911 funding obligation imposed with respect to prepaid wireless telecommunications service in this state, and no tax, fee, surcharge, or other charge shall be imposed by this state, any political subdivision of this state, or any intergovernmental agency, for E-911 funding purposes, upon any provider, seller, or consumer with respect to the sale, purchase, use, or provision of prepaid wireless telecommunications service.
History of Section.
P.L. 2010, ch. 23, art. 9, § 12; P.L. 2018, ch. 47, art. 7, § 10.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-23 - Adaptive Telephone Equipment Loan Program Committee › Section 39-23-1. - Committee — Composition.

§ 39-23-1. Committee — Composition.
There is hereby created within the department of human services a permanent committee to be known as the adaptive telephone equipment loan program committee. This committee shall advise on the program and shall consist of fifteen (15) members, one of whom shall be from the house of representatives, to be appointed by the speaker; one of whom shall be from the senate, to be appointed by the president of the senate; one of whom shall be a representative of the telephone company, to be appointed by its chief executive officer; one of whom shall be a representative of the public utilities commission, to be appointed by the chairperson of the public utilities commission; and eleven (11) of whom shall be appointed by the governor as follows: seven (7) consumers, including at least one from each of the following communities: the hard of hearing or deaf community, the speech-impaired community, and the neuromuscular-impaired community; one professional member who shall be an audiologist, physician, or speech pathologist, and three (3) members of the general public.
History of Section.
P.L. 1985, ch. 48, § 2; P.L. 1993, ch. 115, § 2; P.L. 2001, ch. 180, § 83; P.L. 2004, ch. 378, § 1; P.L. 2004, ch. 504, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-23 - Adaptive Telephone Equipment Loan Program Committee › Section 39-23-2. - Duties.

§ 39-23-2. Duties.
The duties of the committee shall include but not be limited to advising on the implementation of the telecommunications device for the impaired distribution program authorized by § 39-1-42(a)(2), and providing periodic review of activities, policies, regulations, procedures, programs, and operation of the program.
History of Section.
P.L. 1985, ch. 48, § 2; P.L. 2004, ch. 378, § 1; P.L. 2004, ch. 504, § 1; P.L. 2020, ch. 79, art. 1, § 15.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-23 - Adaptive Telephone Equipment Loan Program Committee › Section 39-23-3. - Reports and recommendations.

§ 39-23-3. Reports and recommendations.
The committee shall, from time to time, and at least annually, report to the general assembly on its findings and the results of its studies, and make such recommendations to the general assembly and propose such legislation or initiate such studies as it shall deem advisable.
History of Section.
P.L. 1985, ch. 48, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-23 - Adaptive Telephone Equipment Loan Program Committee › Section 39-23-4. - Place of meeting.

§ 39-23-4. Place of meeting.
The committee shall meet at such times and places as in the judgment of the committee will best serve the convenience of all parties in interest. The members of the committee shall receive no salary.
History of Section.
P.L. 1985, ch. 48, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-23 - Adaptive Telephone Equipment Loan Program Committee › Section 39-23-5. - [Repealed.]

§ 39-23-5. [Repealed.]
History of Section.
P.L. 1990, ch. 135, § 1; Repealed by P.L. 2004, ch. 378, § 2, effective July 3, 2004; and by P.L. 2004, ch. 504, § 2, effective July 7, 2004.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-23 - Adaptive Telephone Equipment Loan Program Committee › Section 39-23-6. - Terms of office and officers.

§ 39-23-6. Terms of office and officers.
Of the number of members appointed by the governor 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 expiration of terms shall be filled with appointments for terms of three (3) years. Members whose terms expire may be reappointed to succeed themselves. The committee shall elect from its own membership a chairperson, vice chairperson, and other officers as deemed necessary annually. The committee may appoint such personnel as may be necessary for the efficient performance of the duties prescribed by this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1993, ch. 115, § 3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-24 - Long-Range Energy Plans › Section 39-24-1. - [Repealed.]

§ 39-24-1. [Repealed.]
History of Section.
P.L. 1987, ch. 144, § 1; Repealed by P.L. 1996, ch. 316, § 1, effective August 7, 1996.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-24 - Long-Range Energy Plans › Section 39-24-2. - Filing by gas companies.

§ 39-24-2. Filing by gas companies.
Every gas company whose total annual sales in the preceding calendar year exceed five million cubic feet (5,000,000 cu. ft.) shall submit, every two (2) years, to the public utilities commission, a long-range energy plan for the five-year (5) period subsequent to the date the plan is submitted, and shall apprise the commission in the interim of any changes that substantially affect the plan. The public utilities commission shall by rule specify such information as it shall reasonably require, to include, but not be limited to, the company’s peak demand forecasts, annual sales in cubic feet, major proposed additions to plant, and an analysis of the cost and financing of any proposed additions to plant or purchases. The filing shall include all assumptions and methodologies used by the company in formulating the plan.
History of Section.
P.L. 1987, ch. 144, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-25 - Electric Transmission Siting and Regulatory Act › Section 39-25-1. - Short title.

§ 39-25-1. Short title.
This chapter shall be known as the electric transmission siting and regulatory act.
History of Section.
P.L. 1992, ch. 439, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-25 - Electric Transmission Siting and Regulatory Act › Section 39-25-2. - Statement of policy and purpose.

§ 39-25-2. Statement of policy and purpose.
The general assembly finds and hereby declares the following:
(1)
The citizens of the state whose homes are in close proximity to proposed high-voltage lines have expressed concern about the possible harmful effect of electromagnetic fields that emanate from the electrical utilities facilities;
(2)
There have been a number of scientific studies that purport to suggest that the electromagnetic fields associated with electrical utility facilities may present a significant health risk;
(3)
The issue of the adverse health effects of human exposure to electromagnetic radiation has been the subject of newspaper and scientific journal articles, and although to date no firm data exists indicating at what levels this radiation may pose certain health risks, scientific studies and preliminary evidence warrant an approach of prudent avoidance;
(4)
While the general assembly recognizes that at present, research data neither provides a basis for asserting that magnetic fields pose a significant health risk nor does it allow one to categorically assert that there are no risks. Prudence, therefore, suggests caution in dealing with electromagnetic fields and public health issues until further research permits a more conclusive determination.
History of Section.
P.L. 1992, ch. 439, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-25 - Electric Transmission Siting and Regulatory Act › Section 39-25-3. - Regulations on construction of high-voltage lines.

§ 39-25-3. Regulations on construction of high-voltage lines.
The energy facility siting board established under § 42-98-5 is hereby authorized and directed to establish rules and regulations governing construction within the state of high-voltage transmission lines of sixty-nine (69) kV or greater.
History of Section.
P.L. 1992, ch. 439, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-26 - Renewable Energy Standard › Section 39-26-1. - Legislative findings.

§ 39-26-1. Legislative findings.
The General Assembly finds that:
(1)
The people and energy users of Rhode Island have an interest in having electricity supplied in the state come from a diversity of energy sources including renewable resources;
(2)
Increased use of renewable energy may have the potential to lower and stabilize future energy costs;
(3)
Increased use of renewable energy can reduce air pollutants, including carbon dioxide emissions, that adversely affect public health and contribute to global warming;
(4)
Massachusetts, Connecticut, and other states have established renewable energy standard programs to encourage the development of renewable energy sources;
(5)
It is in the interest of the people, in order to protect public health and the environment and to promote the general welfare, to establish a renewable energy standard program to increase levels of electrical energy supplied in the state from renewable resources.
History of Section.
P.L. 2004, ch. 199, § 1; P.L. 2004, ch. 205, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-26 - Renewable Energy Standard › Section 39-26-3. - Purposes.

§ 39-26-3. Purposes.
The purposes of this chapter are to define renewable energy resources and to facilitate the development of new renewable energy resources to supply electricity to customers in Rhode Island with goals of stabilizing long-term energy prices, enhancing environmental quality, and creating jobs in Rhode Island in the renewable energy sector.
History of Section.
P.L. 2004, ch. 199, § 1; P.L. 2004, ch. 205, § 1; P.L. 2011, ch. 134, § 1; P.L. 2011, ch. 147, § 1.