reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 40 - Human Services › Chapter 40-5.2 - The Rhode Island Works Program › Section 40-5.2-34. - Screening for domestic violence — Waiver of program requirements.

§ 40-5.2-34. Screening for domestic violence — Waiver of program requirements.
(a)
The department shall:
(1)
Screen and identify individuals with a history of domestic violence applying for or receiving assistance while maintaining the confidentiality of such individuals;
(2)
Refer these individuals to counseling and supportive services; and
(3)
Waive, pursuant to a determination of good cause and for so long as necessary, cash assistance program requirements relating to time limits for individuals receiving assistance, residency requirements, child support cooperation requirements, and work requirements, in cases where compliance with these requirements would make it more difficult for individuals receiving assistance under this chapter to escape domestic violence or unfairly penalize individuals who are or have been victimized by domestic violence, or individuals who are at risk of further domestic violence.
(b)
For purposes of this section, the term “individual with a history of domestic violence” means an individual who has been subjected to:
(1)
Physical acts that resulted in, or threatened to result in, physical injury to the individual;
(2)
Sexual abuse;
(3)
Sexual activity involving a dependent child;
(4)
Being forced as the caretaker relative of a dependent child to engage in nonconsensual sexual acts or activities;
(5)
Threats of, or attempts at, physical or sexual abuse;
(6)
Mental abuse; or
(7)
Neglect or deprivation of medical care.
History of Section.
P.L. 2008, ch. 100, art. 16, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 40 - Human Services › Chapter 40-5.2 - The Rhode Island Works Program › Section 40-5.2-35. - Child support pass-through.

§ 40-5.2-35. Child support pass-through.
For any month in which a noncustodial parent makes a child support payment in the month when due and the support is collected by the department of human services, for a child or children receiving cash assistance pursuant to this chapter, the first fifty dollars ($50.00) of the child support payment, or the actual amount of the child support payment if the payment is less than fifty dollars ($50.00), shall be paid to the family in which the child resides. If more than one noncustodial parent makes a child support payment to children living in the same family, there shall only be one payment of fifty ($50.00) paid to the family from the child support collected. This payment is known as the “pass through” payment and shall be sent to the family within two (2) business days of the determination that the amount is due and owing and no later than within two (2) business days of the end of the month in which the support was collected.
History of Section.
P.L. 2008, ch. 100, art. 16, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 40 - Human Services › Chapter 40-5.2 - The Rhode Island Works Program › Section 40-5.2-36. - Appropriation of funds.

§ 40-5.2-36. Appropriation of funds.
The general assembly shall annually appropriate sums as it may deem necessary for the purposes of carrying out the provisions of this chapter; and the state controller is hereby authorized and directed to draw his or her orders upon the general treasurer for the payment of these sums, or so much thereof as may from time to time be required, upon receipt by him or her of the vouchers approved by the director of the state department of human services.
History of Section.
P.L. 2008, ch. 100, art. 16, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 40 - Human Services › Chapter 40-5.2 - The Rhode Island Works Program › Section 40-5.2-37. - Severability.

§ 40-5.2-37. 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. 2008, ch. 100, art. 16, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 40 - Human Services › Chapter 40-5.2 - The Rhode Island Works Program › Section 40-5.2-39. - References to the family independence program.

§ 40-5.2-39. References to the family independence program.
Any references in the Rhode Island general laws to the family independence act, family independence program, or family independence program cash assistance or benefits shall be deemed to be applicable and shall be effective in accordance with the Rhode Island works program outlined in this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 2008, ch. 100, art. 16, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 40 - Human Services › Chapter 40-5.3 - Youth Pregnancy and At-Risk Prevention Services Program › Section 40-5.3-1. - Short title.

§ 40-5.3-1. Short title.
This chapter is hereby entitled “Youth Pregnancy and At-Risk Prevention Services Program.”
History of Section.
P.L. 2014, ch. 437, § 1; P.L. 2014, ch. 467, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 40 - Human Services › Chapter 40-5.3 - Youth Pregnancy and At-Risk Prevention Services Program › Section 40-5.3-2. - Youth pregnancy and at-risk prevention services program — Findings — Legislative intent — Goals.

§ 40-5.3-2. Youth pregnancy and at-risk prevention services program — Findings — Legislative intent — Goals.
The legislature hereby finds and declares the following:
(1)
Young people, especially at-risk youth, are more vulnerable to teen pregnancy, child abuse, gang and drug-related activity, juvenile crime, school failure, neglect, and other illicit activities during the potentially unsupervised summer months, as well as the hours between the end of school and the time their parents or guardians return home from work.
(2)
Without community-based prevention and mentoring programs, the threats to the well-being and safety of our youth continue.
(3)
In order to minimize the risk to young people, it is the intent of the general assembly to expand after-school and summer community-based prevention, mentoring, and development programs and to implement those programs in accordance with the federal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families Program (“TANF” program) described in Title IV-A of the federal Social Security Act, 42 U.S.C. § 601 et seq.
(4)
The goal of the program shall be to focus on the particular TANF goal of preventing youth pregnancies as well as reducing other at-risk behavior described in this section.
History of Section.
P.L. 2014, ch. 437, § 1; P.L. 2014, ch. 467, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 40 - Human Services › Chapter 40-5.3 - Youth Pregnancy and At-Risk Prevention Services Program › Section 40-5.3-3. - Youth pregnancy and at-risk prevention services program — Establishment.

§ 40-5.3-3. Youth pregnancy and at-risk prevention services program — Establishment.
(a)
There is hereby established an after-school and summer youth prevention and development program to be administered by the department of human services. The establishment of the program pursuant to this chapter shall be contingent upon the availability and receipt of federal funding for the purpose set forth in § 40-5.3-2. The department shall ensure that the goals of this chapter are met and that the state meets the federal requirements. The director of the department, to the extent that federal TANF funds are made available, may allocate to the program up to two hundred fifty thousand dollars ($250,000) annually.
(b)
In the event that there are changes in the federal TANF program, the department shall seek support through the general assembly to make all necessary changes and shall take all necessary steps to comply with the federal law.
(c)
Except as otherwise provided for herein, the director is responsible for implementation of this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 2014, ch. 437, § 1; P.L. 2014, ch. 467, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 40 - Human Services › Chapter 40-5.3 - Youth Pregnancy and At-Risk Prevention Services Program › Section 40-5.3-4. - Youth pregnancy and at-risk prevention services program — Eligibility requirements.

§ 40-5.3-4. Youth pregnancy and at-risk prevention services program — Eligibility requirements.
(a)
The Rhode Island Alliance of Boys and Girls Clubs is hereby authorized, on behalf of its member organizations, to make an application to the department for funding under this chapter.
(b)
The following requirements and conditions shall be necessary to establish eligibility for funding:
(1)
The organization must demonstrate that its members are affiliated and in good standing with a nationally chartered organization as described in Title 36, Subtitle II, Part B of the Patriotic and National Organizations, 36 U.S.C. § 311 et seq.;
(2)
The organization must provide tested and proven programs;
(3)
The organization must demonstrate that its members provide programs that are facility-based;
(4)
The organization must demonstrate that its members’ programs are offered for a minimum of ten (10) hours weekly during the school year and twenty (20) hours weekly during the summer;
(5)
The organization must demonstrate that its members’ programs exist in a minimum of seven (7) towns and cities within the state;
(6)
The organization must demonstrate that its members’ programs are administered in accordance with this chapter and designed to meet or exceed the minimum federal TANF guidelines;
(7)
The organization must demonstrate that it is eligible to receive federal TANF funding; and
(8)
The organization must be able to raise four dollars ($4) for every one dollar received from the state through federal funding.
History of Section.
P.L. 2014, ch. 437, § 1; P.L. 2014, ch. 467, § 1; P.L. 2016, ch. 512, art. 1, § 27.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 40 - Human Services › Chapter 40-5.3 - Youth Pregnancy and At-Risk Prevention Services Program › Section 40-5.3-5. - Annual report to general assembly.

§ 40-5.3-5. Annual report to general assembly.
No later than March 1st of each year, the director shall submit a report to the general assembly showing how, within available resources, the department expects to operate the programs authorized under this chapter in the succeeding fiscal year. The director will provide an annual report of program impact on youth and indicators of success.
History of Section.
P.L. 2014, ch. 437, § 1; P.L. 2014, ch. 467, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 40 - Human Services › Chapter 40-5.3 - Youth Pregnancy and At-Risk Prevention Services Program › Section 40-5.3-6. - Report to federal government.

§ 40-5.3-6. Report to federal government.
The department shall make reports to the federal government, or any agency or department thereof, in the form and nature required by it, and shall in all respects comply with any request or direction of the federal government, or any agency or department thereof, that may be necessary to assure the correctness and verification of the reports.
History of Section.
P.L. 2014, ch. 437, § 1; P.L. 2014, ch. 467, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 40 - Human Services › Chapter 40-5.3 - Youth Pregnancy and At-Risk Prevention Services Program › Section 40-5.3-7. - Rules and regulations.

§ 40-5.3-7. Rules and regulations.
The director of the department shall promulgate rules and regulations necessary to carry out the provisions of this chapter. Any reference to the department’s rulemaking process is pursuant to this section.
History of Section.
P.L. 2014, ch. 437, § 1; P.L. 2014, ch. 467, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 40 - Human Services › Chapter 40-5.3 - Youth Pregnancy and At-Risk Prevention Services Program › Section 40-5.3-8. - Severability.

§ 40-5.3-8. Severability.
If any provision of this chapter, or the application thereof, to any person or circumstances is held invalid, such 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. 2014, ch. 437, § 1; P.L. 2014, ch. 467, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 40 - Human Services › Chapter 40-6 - Public Assistance Act › Section 40-6-1. - Short title — “Public assistance” and “department” defined.

§ 40-6-1. Short title — “Public assistance” and “department” defined.
(a)
This chapter shall be known and may be cited as the “Public Assistance Act.”
(b) Definitions.
As used in this chapter, the following terms shall have the meanings set forth herein, unless the context in which the terms are used clearly indicates to the contrary:
(1)
“Department” shall mean the Rhode Island department of human services.
(2)
“Public assistance” means general public assistance (GPA); supplemental security income (SSI); RI works pursuant to chapter 5.2 of this title; childcare assistance; medical assistance, and supplemental nutritional assistance program (SNAP) pursuant to 7 U.S.C. § 2011 et seq.; which programs are administered and/or financed in whole or in part by the Rhode Island department of human services.
History of Section.
P.L. 1987, ch. 118, art. 13, § 2; P.L. 1996, ch. 129, § 11; P.L. 1996, ch. 131, § 11; P.L. 1996, ch. 132, § 11; P.L. 1996, ch. 133, § 11; P.L. 2011, ch. 156, § 1; P.L. 2011, ch. 407, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 40 - Human Services › Chapter 40-6 - Public Assistance Act › Section 40-6-2. - Purpose.

§ 40-6-2. Purpose.
It is the purpose of this chapter to provide public assistance to residents of the state who are in need and who meet the eligibility requirements of the various programs that constitute public assistance. It shall be the responsibility of the department to provide assistance to residents of Rhode Island found by the department to be eligible for assistance in accordance with this chapter and the rules and regulations lawfully promulgated by the department. In that the state has resources to meet the needs of its residents, the department shall determine, upon application, eligibility for those programs financed in whole or in part by the federal government before providing general public assistance as provided in § 40-6-3.
History of Section.
P.L. 1987, ch. 118, art. 13, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 40 - Human Services › Chapter 40-6 - Public Assistance Act › Section 40-6-3. - General public assistance.

§ 40-6-3. General public assistance.
It is the purpose of this section to provide general public assistance to any person who is a resident of the state and who is eligible, in accordance with the rules and regulations of the department, and is in need; provided, further, that benefits under this program shall be provided only to residents who are citizens of the United States or aliens lawfully admitted for permanent residence or otherwise permanently residing in the United States under color of law, and benefits shall not be provided to illegal or undocumented aliens. In that there are limited resources available to meet the needs of the residents of this state and recognizing that needs of certain children and families have been provided by this state pursuant to chapter 5.1 of this title, it is the intent of this chapter that general public assistance shall not be provided to any individual who is eligible or who would, but for income and resources, be eligible for cash assistance pursuant to chapter 5.1 of this title and the rules and regulations of the department. General public assistance shall not be available to any individual who has been found eligible for supplemental security income (SSI) as provided in § 40-6-27, and the general public medical assistance, as provided for in this chapter, shall not be available to any individual who has been found eligible for medical assistance as provided pursuant to Title XIX of the Social Security Act, 42 U.S.C. § 1396 et seq., as both of these programs are financed in part by the limited resources of this state.
History of Section.
P.L. 1987, ch. 118, art. 13, § 2; P.L. 1992, ch. 133, art. 46, § 1; P.L. 1996, ch. 129, § 11; P.L. 1996, ch. 131, § 11; P.L. 1996, ch. 132, § 11; P.L. 1996, ch. 133, § 11.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 40 - Human Services › Chapter 40-6 - Public Assistance Act › Section 40-6-3.2. - Form of assistance.

§ 40-6-3.2. Form of assistance.
(a)
General public assistance shall be provided in the form of:
(1)
Financial assistance payable by check;
(2)
Beginning on July 1, 1992, each hospital licensed under chapter 17 of title 23, other than state-operated hospitals, shall provide free services and charity care for reasonable and necessary inpatient and outpatient hospital services as the department by regulation requires to serve all persons seeking services from the hospital who are determined to be eligible for general public assistance. The latter shall be treated as free service and charitable care. Each hospital shall, in addition, continue to provide free services and charitable care to other persons in accordance with each hospital’s charter and mission statement and with §§ 23-17-19.1(13) and 23-17-26. Eligibility for general public assistance shall be determined by the department of human services. Each hospital required under this section to provide services to individuals eligible for general public assistance shall, upon request of the auditor general of the state, provide the auditor general with information as he or she shall request regarding the services provided. The auditor general shall make annual reports to the finance committees of the Rhode Island house and senate on general public assistance hospital care. The obligations of hospitals under this section shall terminate when vendor payments for hospitals have been restored;
(3)
Vendor payment of medical assistance as the department by regulation determines for only the following reasonable and necessary medical services: Outpatient physician services and a limited formulary of prescription drugs to be established by the department, when the services and drugs are provided in, or approved by, an authorized health center, or by such other providers and at such locations as may, from time to time, be designated by the department. No payment shall be made for medical expenses incurred prior to the date the individual makes written application for assistance.
(b)
The department is authorized to promulgate rules and regulations to detect and prevent program abuse by recipients and providers of assistance.
History of Section.
P.L. 1987, ch. 118, art. 13, § 2; P.L. 1991, ch. 6, art. 11, § 1; P.L. 1991, ch. 44, art. 23, § 3; P.L. 1992, ch. 133, art. 46, § 1; P.L. 1993, ch. 138, art. 25, § 1; P.L. 1994, ch. 70, art. 18, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 40 - Human Services › Chapter 40-6 - Public Assistance Act › Section 40-6-3.3. - [Repealed.]

§ 40-6-3.3. [Repealed.]
History of Section.
P.L. 1987, ch. 118, art. 13, § 2; P.L. 1992, ch. 133, art. 46, § 1; P.L. 1994, ch. 70, art. 18, § 1; Repealed by P.L. 1996, ch. 129, § 23, P.L. 1996, ch. 131, § 23, P.L. 1996, ch. 132, § 23 and P.L. 1996, ch. 133, § 23, effective on the later of May 1, 1997 or the first day of the second month following the month of receipt by the Rhode Island Department of Human Services of all federal approvals and/or federal waivers from the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services necessary to implement the provisions of the acts, provided, however, that the Rhode Island Department of Human Services is authorized and directed to seek such federal approvals and/or federal waivers upon passage of the acts.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 40 - Human Services › Chapter 40-6 - Public Assistance Act › Section 40-6-3.7. - Local welfare offices.

§ 40-6-3.7. Local welfare offices.
There shall be in each city or town a public welfare office or offices where persons may make application for any type of public assistance, unless the director of the department of human services designates other suitable offices within the state where persons may make application. Suitable quarters for the office shall be provided by cities and towns, and for the expense of maintaining the offices, the cities and towns shall be reimbursed as a general public assistance expense. In situations where, in the judgment of a city or town, the amount of work does not justify the establishment of a local office or where, for other reasons, a city or town does not desire a local office, the state may, with the approval of the cities or towns concerned, establish an office that may serve two (2) or more cities or towns.
History of Section.
P.L. 1987, ch. 118, art. 13, § 2; P.L. 1991, ch. 6, art. 11, § 3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 40 - Human Services › Chapter 40-6 - Public Assistance Act › Section 40-6-3.8. - [Repealed.]

§ 40-6-3.8. [Repealed.]
History of Section.
P.L. 1987, ch. 118, art. 13, § 2; Repealed by P.L. 1992, ch. 133, art. 46, § 2, effective July 1, 1992.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 40 - Human Services › Chapter 40-6 - Public Assistance Act › Section 40-6-3.9. - [Repealed.]

§ 40-6-3.9. [Repealed.]
History of Section.
P.L. 1987, ch. 118, art. 13, § 2; P.L. 1992, ch. 133, art. 46, § 1; Repealed by P.L. 1993, ch. 138, art. 25, § 2, effective July 1, 1993.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 40 - Human Services › Chapter 40-6 - Public Assistance Act › Section 40-6-3.10. - Funeral and burial expenses.

§ 40-6-3.10. Funeral and burial expenses.
(a)
The department may provide for vendor payment of reasonable funeral and burial expenses of deceased residents of this state who are found eligible in accordance with rules and regulations of the department. The department shall, from time to time, establish cost standards for the reasonable funeral and burial expenses, which cost standards shall establish the maximum amount payable by this department for the expenses and the maximum, total allowable funeral and burial costs. The amount payable under this section shall be determined with due regard to the income and resources of the deceased and his or her legally-liable relatives, if any, and shall be reduced dollar-for-dollar by contributions of friends or other kindred in excess of the maximum total allowable funeral and burial costs established by the department.
(b)
Application for payment of funeral and burial expenses shall be made on behalf of a decedent before final funeral arrangements with a funeral director are concluded. Provided, that any legally liable relative and/or agent of the decedent may make an application under this section within thirty (30) days after the death of the decedent.
(c)
In determining either eligibility for benefits and/or the amount of any reduction in benefits paid under this section, the department shall exclude any of the following forms of income:
(1)
Veterans’ benefits; and/or
(2)
Social Security lump-sum benefits.
(d)
The department’s standard, basic-allowance payment shall be set at nine hundred dollars ($900).
(e)
The amount of the contribution that friends or other kindred, except for legally-liable relatives, may make for upgraded services and merchandise, without affecting eligibility for the basic allowance, shall be set at one thousand six hundred dollars ($1,600).
(f)
Whenever the person having custody of an unclaimed deceased body as specified in § 23-18.1-1 contacts the department of human services to report the unclaimed body of a deceased person, the department shall deem this referral as an application of payment for funeral and burial expenses, and the department shall process that application in accordance with the provisions of this section.
(g)
In the event that the department determines that the unclaimed deceased body is not eligible for a vendor payment of reasonable funeral and burial expenses because of the availability of the decedent’s assets, the director of the department may nonetheless authorize the burial of the person and he or she may notify the specified funeral home of the existence of the decedent’s assets.
History of Section.
P.L. 1987, ch. 118, art. 13, § 2; P.L. 2000, ch. 365, § 1; P.L. 2000, ch. 470, § 1; P.L. 2004, ch. 201, § 2; P.L. 2004, ch. 350, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 40 - Human Services › Chapter 40-6 - Public Assistance Act › Section 40-6-3.11. - “Dependent child” defined.

§ 40-6-3.11. “Dependent child” defined.
For purposes of this chapter, the term “dependent child” shall mean a dependent child as defined by Title IV-A of the Social Security Act, 42 U.S.C. § 601 et seq., as amended.
History of Section.
P.L. 1987, ch. 118, art. 13, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 40 - Human Services › Chapter 40-6 - Public Assistance Act › Section 40-6-4. - [Repealed.]

§ 40-6-4. [Repealed.]
History of Section.
P.L. 1987, ch. 118, art. 13, § 2; P.L. 1992, ch. 133, art. 47, § 1; P.L. 1993, ch. 138, art. 25, § 1; Repealed by P.L. 1996, ch. 129, § 12, P.L. 1996, ch. 131, § 12, P.L. 1996, ch. 132, § 12, and P.L. 1996, ch. 133, § 12, effective on the later of May 1, 1997 or the first day of the second month following the month of receipt by the Rhode Island Department of Human Services of all federal approvals and/or federal waivers from the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services necessary to implement the provisions of the acts, provided, however, that the Rhode Island Department of Human Services is authorized and directed to seek such federal approvals and/or federal waivers upon passage of the acts.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 40 - Human Services › Chapter 40-6 - Public Assistance Act › Section 40-6-4.1. - Ineligibility for aid or assistance — Commitment to training school or adult correctional institutions.

§ 40-6-4.1. Ineligibility for aid or assistance — Commitment to training school or adult correctional institutions.
In the event that any child is committed to the training school or adult correctional institutions, and the child’s parent(s) or qualifying relative are receiving or are eligible for aid to families with dependent children (AFDC) as provided pursuant to § 40-6-4 [repealed], Title IV-A of the Social Security Act, 42 U.S.C. § 601 et seq., and the rules and regulations of the department, the eligibility of the parent(s) or qualifying relative for AFDC benefits for the child who is placed in the training school shall be suspended during the time the child is committed. The department of children, youth and families or department of corrections shall provide a list or computer compilation to the department of human services, on a monthly basis, that shall identify the name, and if available, the date of birth and social security number of each child committed to the training school or adult correctional institutions, and the name of the parent(s) or qualifying relative, of each child committed to the training school or adult correctional institutions. Notwithstanding the provisions of § 42-72-8, all information provided by this section shall remain confidential and shall be used only for the purposes of this section. Nothing in this section shall be construed to suspend the eligibility of the parent(s) or qualifying relative for AFDC benefits for any children not committed to the training school or adult correctional institutions.
History of Section.
P.L. 1996, ch. 269, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 40 - Human Services › Chapter 40-6 - Public Assistance Act › Section 40-6-5. - [Repealed.]

§ 40-6-5. [Repealed.]
History of Section.
P.L. 1987, ch. 118, art. 13, § 2; P.L. 1992, ch. 133, art. 48, § 1; P.L. 1992, ch. 133, art. 99, § 1; Repealed by P.L. 1996, ch. 129, § 12, P.L. 1996, ch. 131, § 12, P.L. 1996, ch. 132, § 12, and P.L. 1996, ch. 133, § 12, effective on the later of May 1, 1997 or the first day of the second month following the month of receipt by the Rhode Island Department of Human Services of all federal approvals and/or federal waivers from the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services necessary to implement the provisions of the acts, provided, however, that the Rhode Island Department of Human Services is authorized and directed to seek such federal approvals and/or federal waivers upon passage of the acts.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 40 - Human Services › Chapter 40-6 - Public Assistance Act › Section 40-6-5.1. - [Repealed.]

§ 40-6-5.1. [Repealed.]
History of Section.
P.L. 1988, ch. 129, art. 26, § 1; Repealed by P.L. 1996, ch. 129, § 12, P.L. 1996, ch. 131, § 12, P.L. 1996, ch. 132, § 12, and P.L. 1996, ch. 133, § 12, effective on the later of May 1, 1997 or the first day of the second month following the month of receipt by the Rhode Island Department of Human Services of all federal approvals and/or federal waivers from the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services necessary to implement the provisions of the acts, provided, however, that the Rhode Island Department of Human Services is authorized and directed to seek such federal approvals and/or federal waivers upon passage of the acts.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 40 - Human Services › Chapter 40-6 - Public Assistance Act › Section 40-6-5.3. - [Repealed.]

§ 40-6-5.3. [Repealed.]
History of Section.
P.L. 1993, ch. 244, § 1; P.L. 1995, ch. 370, art. 22, § 3; Repealed by P.L. 1996, ch. 129, § 12, P.L. 1996, ch. 131, § 12, P.L. 1996, ch. 132, § 12, and P.L. 1996, ch. 133, § 12, effective on the later of May 1, 1997 or the first day of the second month following the month of receipt by the Rhode Island Department of Human Services of all federal approvals and/or federal waivers from the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services necessary to implement the provisions of the acts, provided, however, that the Rhode Island Department of Human Services is authorized and directed to seek such federal approvals and/or federal waivers upon passage of the acts.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 40 - Human Services › Chapter 40-6 - Public Assistance Act › Section 40-6-6. - Authorization to pay assistance.

§ 40-6-6. Authorization to pay assistance.
Authorization to pay all forms of assistance specified in this chapter shall be made by representatives of the department, and the state controller is hereby authorized and directed to draw his or her orders upon the general treasurer for payments upon receipt by him or her of proper vouchers approved by the department.
History of Section.
P.L. 1987, ch. 118, art. 13, § 2; P.L. 1992, ch. 133, art. 46, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 40 - Human Services › Chapter 40-6 - Public Assistance Act › Section 40-6-7. - [Repealed.]

§ 40-6-7. [Repealed.]
History of Section.
P.L. 1987, ch. 118, art. 14, § 2; Repealed by P.L. 1990, ch. 65, art. 26, § 2, effective July 1, 1990.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 40 - Human Services › Chapter 40-6 - Public Assistance Act › Section 40-6-7.1. - Expanded eligibility for pregnant women and young children.

§ 40-6-7.1. Expanded eligibility for pregnant women and young children.
With respect to pregnant women and with respect to children under the age of five (5), the state hereby adopts the optional expanded income and resource eligibility standards set forth in amendments to Title XIX of the federal Social Security Act, 42 U.S.C. § 1396 et seq. Pregnant women and children up to the age of five (5), in accordance with federal regulation, whose income is greater than the AFDC standard but less than the federal poverty level, are hereby declared to be eligible for medical assistance under this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1987, ch. 463, § 1; P.L. 1996, ch. 129, § 11; P.L. 1996, ch. 131, § 11; P.L. 1996, ch. 132, § 11; P.L. 1996, ch. 133, § 11.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 40 - Human Services › Chapter 40-6 - Public Assistance Act › Section 40-6-7.2. - Presumptive eligibility for pregnant women.

§ 40-6-7.2. Presumptive eligibility for pregnant women.
With respect to pregnant women, the state hereby adopts the optional presumptive-eligibility program set forth in amendments to Title XIX of the federal Social Security Act, 42 U.S.C. § 1396 et seq. The department of human services is hereby directed to prepare the necessary forms and give the necessary training to providers of prenatal care to enable the providers to participate in the presumptive-eligibility program pursuant to the above-referenced federal laws. The director of the department of human services is authorized to promulgate such regulations as may be necessary to implement the presumptive-eligibility program.
History of Section.
P.L. 1987, ch. 463, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 40 - Human Services › Chapter 40-6 - Public Assistance Act › Section 40-6-8. - Supplemental nutrition assistance program (SNAP).

§ 40-6-8. Supplemental nutrition assistance program (SNAP).
(a)
The department shall have the responsibility to administer the food stamp program for the state in compliance with the provisions of the federal Food Stamp Act of 1964, as amended, 7 U.S.C. § 2011 et seq. The supplemental nutrition assistance program (SNAP) is and shall be the new title of the program formerly known as the food stamp program. All references in the Rhode Island general laws to food stamps shall be deemed to mean, apply to, refer to, and be interpreted in accordance with the supplemental nutrition assistance program (SNAP).
(b)
The department is empowered and authorized to submit its plan for food stamps to the federal government, or any agency or department of it, as follows:
(1)
The department shall act for the state in any negotiations relative to the submission and approval of a plan, and may make any arrangement or changes in its plan not inconsistent with this chapter that may be required by the Food Stamp Act or the rules and regulations promulgated pursuant to it to obtain and retain such approval and to secure for this state the benefits of the provisions of the federal act relating to food stamps;
(2)
The department shall make reports to the federal government, or any agency or department of it, in the form and nature required by it, and in all respects comply with any request or direction of the federal government, or any agency or department of it, that may be necessary to assure the correctness and verification of the reports; and
(3)
The department shall develop a plan to streamline the application, certification, and recertification process for SNAP beneficiaries aged sixty (60) years and over.
(c)
The department is authorized and directed to pay one hundred percent (100%) of the state’s share of the administrative cost involved in the operation of the food stamp program.
(d)
No person shall be ineligible for food stamp benefits due solely to the restricted eligibility rules otherwise imposed by § 115(a)(2) of the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996 (Pub. L. No. 104-193), 21 U.S.C. § 862a(a)(2), and as this section may hereafter be amended.
History of Section.
P.L. 1987, ch. 118, art. 13, § 2; P.L. 1997, ch. 30, art. 34, § 2; P.L. 2002, ch. 65, art. 26, § 1; P.L. 2004, ch. 595, art. 25, § 4; P.L. 2010, ch. 181, § 1; P.L. 2010, ch. 186, § 1; P.L. 2022, ch. 163, § 1, effective June 27, 2022; P.L. 2022, ch. 164, § 1, effective June 27, 2022.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 40 - Human Services › Chapter 40-6 - Public Assistance Act › Section 40-6-8.1. - Prohibited uses of electronic benefit transfer cards.

§ 40-6-8.1. Prohibited uses of electronic benefit transfer cards.
(a)
The department shall adopt rules prohibiting purchases with cash assistance funds held on electronic benefit transfer cards in venues as described in this section.
(b)
The department is hereby empowered, and shall maintain policies and practices as necessary, to prohibit cash assistance provided under this chapter from being used in any electronic benefit transfer transaction at:
(1)
Liquor stores (holding solely a retailers class A license);
(2)
Casinos or at facilities that conduct casino gaming as defined in chapter 61.2 of title 42;
(3)
Gambling facilities as defined by chapter 9 of title 41;
(4)
Retail establishments that provide adult-oriented entertainment in which performers disrobe or perform in an unclothed state for entertainment as defined in the Social Security Act, 42 U.S.C. § 608(a).
(c)
Eligible recipients of direct-cash assistance, who use cash assistance funds held on electronic benefit transfer cards in such establishments, shall, for a first offense, have their cash assistance reduced for one month by the portion of the family’s benefit attributable to one parent, in accordance with rules and regulations promulgated by the department; for a second offense, have their cash assistance reduced for three (3) months by the portion of the family’s benefit attributable to one parent, in accordance with rules and regulations promulgated by the department; and for a third offense, shall be disqualified from the direct-cash assistance program for a period of one year.
(d)
A store owner who commits fraud against the department of human services by violating § 11-41-34, and who also possesses a license to sell alcoholic beverages under chapter 7 of title 3, shall be referred to the appropriate licensing authority for possible disciplinary action pursuant to title 3.
(e)
A store owner who commits fraud against the department of human services by violating § 11-41-34, and who also possesses a license to sell lottery tickets under chapter 61 of title 42, shall be referred to the director of the state lottery for possible disciplinary action.
History of Section.
P.L. 2016, ch. 377, § 1; P.L. 2016, ch. 499, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 40 - Human Services › Chapter 40-6 - Public Assistance Act › Section 40-6-8.2. - Establishment of retail SNAP incentives pilot program.

§ 40-6-8.2. Establishment of retail SNAP incentives pilot program.
(a)
There shall be established a retail supplemental nutrition assistance program (SNAP) incentives pilot program to be administered by the department of human services. Funds appropriated for the program shall be expended first for the implementation and administration of the retail SNAP incentives program to promote healthy food access and nutrition among Rhode Island SNAP recipients.
(1)
SNAP households will receive fifty cents ($0.50) credit on their electronic benefit transfer (EBT) card for each one dollar ($1.00) spent on eligible fruits and vegetables at participating retailers, up to a monthly limit as determined by the department.
(2)
This pilot program shall take effect on January 1, 2023, and operate until appropriated funds are expended.
(b)
The department of human services shall promulgate rules, regulations, and procedures necessary for the implementation of this section including, but not limited to the following:
(1)
Eligibility for pilot participation;
(2)
Purchases eligible to earn incentive payments;
(3)
Monthly incentive limits that may be earned by participating households; and
(4)
Eligible uses of earned incentive payments.
(c)
The department shall report to the speaker of the house, president of the senate, and chairpersons of the house and senate finance committees regarding the amount of credits issued pursuant to this section and administrative expenses, no later than February 15, 2024.
History of Section.
P.L. 2022, ch. 231, art. 13, § 2, effective July 1, 2022.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 40 - Human Services › Chapter 40-6 - Public Assistance Act › Section 40-6-11. - Report of income by recipients.

§ 40-6-11. Report of income by recipients.
If at any time during the continuance of public assistance pursuant to this chapter and/or chapter 8 of this title, the recipient thereof becomes possessed of income or resources in excess of the amount previously reported by him or her, it shall be his or her duty, and a condition of eligibility, to notify the department providing assistance of this fact immediately on the receipt or possession of additional income or resources.
History of Section.
P.L. 1987, ch. 118, art. 13, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 40 - Human Services › Chapter 40-6 - Public Assistance Act › Section 40-6-12. - Records as to assistance.

§ 40-6-12. Records as to assistance.
(a)
All records pertaining to the administration of public assistance pursuant to this chapter and chapter 8 of this title are hereby declared to constitute confidential matter. It shall be unlawful for any person to make use of, or cause to be used, any information contained in records for purposes not directly connected with the administration thereof, except with the consent of the individual concerned.
(b)
The director of the department shall have the power to establish rules and regulations governing the custody, use, and preservation of the records, papers, files, and communications dealing with the administration of public assistance. The rules and regulations shall have the same force and effect as law. The records shall be produced in response to subpoena duces tecum properly issued by any federal or state court; provided, however, that the purpose for which the subpoena is sought is directly connected with the administration of public assistance. No subpoena shall be issued by a court asking either for the records, or for persons having custody or access to the records, unless the litigation involved in such matters is directly connected with the administration of public assistance.
(c)
Any person, who by law is entitled to a list of individuals receiving any of the assistance as provided in this section, shall not publish, or cause to be published, the list except by the express consent of the director of the department, or to make use thereof for purposes not directly connected with the administration thereof. Any person violating any of the provisions of this section, or the lawful rules and regulations made pursuant to this section, shall be guilty of a misdemeanor, and shall be fined not more than two hundred dollars ($200) or shall be imprisoned for not more than six (6) months, or both.
(d)
Nothing in this section shall be deemed to prohibit the director of the department, or his or her agents duly authorized for that purpose, from issuing any statistical material or data, or publishing, or causing the data to be published, whenever he or she shall deem it to be in the public interest. The director of the department may inquire into the records of any state department or agency in the course of his or her administration of public assistance.
History of Section.
P.L. 1987, ch. 118, art. 13, § 2; P.L. 1997, ch. 326, § 127; P.L. 2006, ch. 216, § 17.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 40 - Human Services › Chapter 40-6 - Public Assistance Act › Section 40-6-12.1. - Warrants — Release of information.

§ 40-6-12.1. Warrants — Release of information.
(a)
The department of human services shall provide to the statewide warrant squad the current address of any individual if all of the following conditions are met:
(1)
There is an outstanding arrest warrant or body attachment issued by a state court in Rhode Island for the individual; and
(2)
The individual is a fugitive felon as defined by the department in accordance with 42 U.S.C. § 608(a)(9); and
(3)
The individual is receiving general public assistance, or cash assistance under chapter 5.1 of this title either for himself or herself or his or her dependents; and
(4)
The law enforcement officer seeking the information certifies in writing that an attempt by the warrant squad to locate and apprehend that individual has been unsuccessful; and
(5)
The warrant squad provides the department the name, date of birth, and social security number of the individual.
(b)
If all the above conditions are met, the department shall release the address upon the request and certification of the officer, and a release pursuant to this section shall not constitute a violation of §§ 40-6-12, 40-5.1-31 [repealed], or 38-2-2(4).
History of Section.
P.L. 1991, ch. 300, § 1; P.L. 1996, ch. 129, § 21; P.L. 1996, ch. 131, § 21; P.L. 1996, ch. 132, § 21; P.L. 1996, ch. 133, § 21.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 40 - Human Services › Chapter 40-6 - Public Assistance Act › Section 40-6-13. - Appeals — Hearings.

§ 40-6-13. Appeals — Hearings.
(a)
Any applicant or recipient aggrieved because of a decision by the department or delay in making a decision shall be entitled to an appeal and shall be afforded reasonable notice and opportunity for a hearing. Hearings with respect to public assistance shall be conducted by the department.
(b)
With respect to general public assistance benefits, advance notice of the department’s intended action to deny, terminate, reduce, or suspend benefits shall be in writing and mailed to an applicant or recipient at his or her last known or designated address at least ten (10) day(s) prior to the effective date of its intended action; the recipient shall be afforded an administrative hearing to contest the department’s intended action; provided, that the applicant or recipient makes a written request for a hearing and provided that the written request is received by the department within ten (10) days of the mailing date of the department’s notice to the applicant or recipient; and provided further, that the department shall continue payment of general public-assistance benefits, pending a hearing, to a recipient who includes a written request for continuation of benefits in or with the recipient’s timely filed written request for a hearing in accordance with this subsection.
History of Section.
P.L. 1987, ch. 118, art. 13, § 2; P.L. 1993, ch. 138, art. 25, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 40 - Human Services › Chapter 40-6 - Public Assistance Act › Section 40-6-14. - Assistance not assignable — Exemption from process.

§ 40-6-14. Assistance not assignable — Exemption from process.
Public assistance provided under this chapter shall not be transferable or assignable, at law or in equity, and none of the money paid or payable under this chapter shall be subject to execution, levy, attachment, garnishment, or other legal process, or to the operation of any bankruptcy or insolvency law.
History of Section.
P.L. 1987, ch. 118, art. 13, § 2; P.L. 1992, ch. 133, art. 46, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 40 - Human Services › Chapter 40-6 - Public Assistance Act › Section 40-6-15. - Fraudulently obtaining assistance.

§ 40-6-15. Fraudulently obtaining assistance.
Any person who by any fraudulent device obtains, or attempts to obtain, or aids or abets any person to obtain, public assistance, pursuant to this chapter, to which he or she is not entitled, or who willfully fails to report income or resources as provided in this chapter, shall be guilty of larceny and, upon conviction thereof, shall be punished by imprisonment of not more than five (5) years or by a fine of not more than one thousand dollars ($1,000), or both, if the value of the public assistance to which he or she is not entitled shall exceed five hundred dollars ($500); or by imprisonment by less than one year or by a fine of not more than five hundred dollars ($500), or by both, if the value of the public assistance to which he or she is not entitled shall not exceed five hundred dollars ($500).
History of Section.
P.L. 1987, ch. 118, art. 13, § 2.