reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-23 - Equipment and Accessories Generally › Section 31-23-42. - First-aid kit and heating equipment in school bus.

§ 31-23-42. First-aid kit and heating equipment in school bus.
Every school bus as defined in § 31-1-3 shall be equipped with a first-aid kit containing those articles and appliances generally included in an approved American Red Cross first-aid kit used in the administration of first-aid treatment. Every school bus shall also be equipped with an operable system for completely and adequately heating the bus while transporting children.
History of Section.
P.L. 1963, ch. 148, § 1; P.L. 1968, ch. 48, § 1; P.L. 1986, ch. 448, § 1; P.L. 2004, ch. 6, § 17.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-23 - Equipment and Accessories Generally › Section 31-23-42.1. - Special mirrors on school buses.

§ 31-23-42.1. Special mirrors on school buses.
Every school bus as defined in § 31-1-3 shall be equipped with a system of mirrors that will give the seated driver a view of the roadway to each side of the bus, and the area immediately in front of the front bumper, in accordance with the following specifications:
(1)
At least seven and one-half inches (7½") of a thirty-inch (30") long rod shall be visible to the driver, either by direct view or by means of an indirect visibility system, when the rod is placed upright on the ground at any point along a traverse line extending one foot from the forward-most point of the bus and one foot from the length and width and rear of the bus.
(2)
Every school bus owner shall maintain a measuring rod thirty inches (30") in length with distinctive identification marks located at seven and one-half inch (7½”) intervals for purposes of adjusting the system of mirrors required by this section in accordance with these specifications.
(3)
Other mirrors shall be located and adjustable so as to meet their intended minimum requirements, and may be incorporated in the system of mirrors required by this section.
(4)
Each school bus shall be equipped with at least two (2) flat-surfaced rectangular exterior mirrors, one situated on each side of the bus forward of the operator and any entrance door. The reflecting surface shall not be obscured and shall have a minimum reflective surface of fifty square inches (50 sq. in.). The mirrors shall be firmly supported and adjustable, and shall afford the driver a clear, stable, reflected view of the road surface at each side of the vehicle for a continual distance beginning at a point not greater than two hundred feet (200′) to the rear and continuing to the horizon when measured on a straight and level road.
(5)
Exterior mirror mounts shall include a wide-angle adjustable convex mirror to provide a close-in field of vision to the operator. Each school bus shall be equipped with convex mirrors that shall be mounted at the left front corner and the right front corner of the vehicle, sufficiently adjustable to enable a seated operator to observe a reflection of the area in front of the bus where children might stand or pass.
(6)
Each school bus shall be equipped with interior mirrors that shall afford the driver a view of the bus interior, emergency door, and the roadway to the immediate rear of the bus. Every school bus with a seating capacity of sixteen (16) passengers or fewer shall have a convex rear view mirror located near the right front corner, so as to provide the operator with a view of the ground area at the entrance door when the door is not equipped with safety glass in the lower portion of the door.
(7)
Violations of this section are subject to fines enumerated in § 31-41.1-4.
History of Section.
P.L. 1969, ch. 176, § 1; P.L. 1975, ch. 198, § 1; P.L. 1986, ch. 448, § 1; P.L. 2002, ch. 292, § 120; P.L. 2004, ch. 6, § 17.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-23 - Equipment and Accessories Generally › Section 31-23-42.2. - Power equipment on school buses.

§ 31-23-42.2. Power equipment on school buses.
(a)
Every new school bus within the state shall be equipped with a dual braking system, including a power braking system, and power steering.
(b)
All school buses, model year 2010 and newer, shall have emergency brakes that are equipped with an interlock system so designed that the emergency brake may be released only when the service brake pedal is depressed and the ignition key is inserted in the ignition lock.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 39, § 1; P.L. 2000, ch. 109, § 72; P.L. 2007, ch. 168, § 1; P.L. 2007, ch. 423, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-23 - Equipment and Accessories Generally › Section 31-23-43. - Wheel safety chocks.

§ 31-23-43. Wheel safety chocks.
(a)
Every bus having a seat capacity of more than seven (7) passengers, every truck with a gross weight of more than seven thousand pounds (7,000 lbs.), and every tractor or trailer, or combination, operated upon the public highways shall be equipped with one pair of approved wheel safety chock blocks. Whenever the motor vehicle shall be parked on a highway on a grade sufficient to cause the vehicle to move of its own momentum, and is left unattended by the operator, the safety chock blocks shall be securely placed around the rear wheel of the vehicle so as to prevent movement of the vehicle.
(b)
Whenever the motor vehicle is equipped with positive spring-loaded air parking brakes, the vehicle need not be equipped with the safety wheel chocks.
(c)
Violations of this section are subject to fines enumerated in § 31-41.1-4.
History of Section.
P.L. 1966, ch. 74, § 1; P.L. 1979, ch. 112, § 1; P.L. 1984, ch. 295, § 2; P.L. 2002, ch. 292, § 120.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-23 - Equipment and Accessories Generally › Section 31-23-44. - Approved type of wheel safety chocks — Enforcement of requirements.

§ 31-23-44. Approved type of wheel safety chocks — Enforcement of requirements.
All wheel safety chock blocks described in § 31-23-43 must be a type approved by the division of motor vehicles, and the division of motor vehicles shall establish specifications and requirements for approved types of wheel safety chock blocks. The specifications and requirements shall, in general, follow the standards established by the department of revenue. The administrator of the division of motor vehicles shall suspend the registration of any motor vehicle described in § 31-23-43 not equipped with wheel safety chock blocks, until it is made to conform to the requirements of the section.
History of Section.
P.L. 1966, ch. 74, § 1; P.L. 1986, ch. 448, § 1; P.L. 2008, ch. 98, § 19; P.L. 2008, ch. 145, § 19.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-23 - Equipment and Accessories Generally › Section 31-23-45. - Tire treads.

§ 31-23-45. Tire treads.
(a)
No tire on a vehicle moved on a highway shall have on its periphery less than two thirty-seconds (2/32) of an inch of tread depth. The administrator of the division of motor vehicles is authorized to remove from a highway any vehicle not conforming to this requirement and shall suspend the registration of the motor vehicle until it is made to conform to the requirements of this section.
(b)
Violations of this section are subject to fines enumerated in § 31-41.1-4.
History of Section.
P.L. 1968, ch. 32, § 1; P.L. 2002, ch. 292, § 120.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-23 - Equipment and Accessories Generally › Section 31-23-46. - Department of environmental management — Vehicles.

§ 31-23-46. Department of environmental management — Vehicles.
All vehicles in use by the department of environmental management shall be equipped with a fire extinguisher. The fire extinguisher shall contain a potassium bicarbonate base dry chemical fire extinguishing agent, have an underwriter’s laboratory rating of six (6) B:C, and a capacity of two and one-half pounds (21/2 lbs.).
History of Section.
P.L. 1968, ch. 120, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-23 - Equipment and Accessories Generally › Section 31-23-47. - Slow moving vehicle emblems.

§ 31-23-47. Slow moving vehicle emblems.
(a)
Except where otherwise specifically provided in this section, every motor vehicle designed for operation at speeds not in excess of twenty-five miles per hour (25 mph) shall at all times be equipped with a slow moving vehicle emblem mounted on the rear of the vehicle, which emblem shall comply with the current standards and specifications approved by the administrator of the division of motor vehicles.
(b)
Every motor vehicle normally operating at speeds not in excess of twenty-five miles per hour (25 mph) shall at all times be equipped with the emblem in the following manner:
(1)
Where a towed unit is sufficiently large to obscure any slow moving emblem on the rear of a motor vehicle only the towed unit need be equipped with the emblem; and
(2)
Where the slow moving vehicle emblem on the motor vehicle would not be obscured by the towed unit, then either or both may be equipped with the required emblem but it shall be sufficient if either has it.
(3)
Violations of this section are subject to fines enumerated in § 31-41.1-4.
History of Section.
P.L. 1969, ch. 6, § 1; P.L. 2002, ch. 292, § 120.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-23 - Equipment and Accessories Generally › Section 31-23-48. - Police cars — Extinguishers.

§ 31-23-48. Police cars — Extinguishers.
Every state and municipal police vehicle in this state shall carry a fire extinguisher at all times.
History of Section.
P.L. 1969, ch. 25, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-23 - Equipment and Accessories Generally › Section 31-23-49. - Transportation of gasoline — Penalty.

§ 31-23-49. Transportation of gasoline — Penalty.
(a)
No motor vehicle shall be used to transport gasoline, except those which are duly registered with and approved by the division of motor vehicles. No container of whatever kind may be used to transport gasoline, except under the rules and regulations that may be promulgated and approved by the state fire marshal. The rules and regulations on containers shall, among other facets, regulate the size and kinds of containers that may be used to transport gasoline in the state of Rhode Island. Unless there exists an emergency condition that would require the transportation of gasoline by motor vehicle in a container or otherwise in response to an individual’s or the general public’s health, safety, or welfare, no person, firm, or corporation shall transport gasoline by motor vehicle, container, or otherwise except as provided in this section. This section shall not be applicable to any vehicle subject to the jurisdiction and regulatory authority of the federal government or any of its agencies.
(b)
Any person, firm, or corporation convicted of violating the provisions of this section or the rules and regulations promulgated by the state fire marshal or the division of motor vehicles under this section shall, upon conviction, be subject to the fines enumerated in § 31-41.1-4.
History of Section.
P.L. 1974, ch. 215, § 1; P.L. 2002, ch. 58, § 4; P.L. 2008, ch. 100, art. 12, § 10.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-23 - Equipment and Accessories Generally › Section 31-23-50. - Motorcycle reflectorized plates.

§ 31-23-50. Motorcycle reflectorized plates.
Every motorcycle registered within this state shall be equipped with reflectorized plates which shall be supplied by the administrator of the division of motor vehicles, department of revenue, pursuant to rules and regulations to be determined by the administrator of the division of motor vehicles, department of revenue.
History of Section.
P.L. 1975, ch. 63, § 1; P.L. 1979, ch. 22, § 2; P.L. 2008, ch. 98, § 19; P.L. 2008, ch. 145, § 19.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-23 - Equipment and Accessories Generally › Section 31-23-51. - Earphones and headsets prohibited.

§ 31-23-51. Earphones and headsets prohibited.
(a)
No person shall operate a bicycle or motor vehicle upon any highway while wearing earphones, a headset, headphone, or other listening device. Any person who violates this section shall be fined: (1) eighty-five dollars ($85.00) for the first offense, (2) ninety-five dollars ($95.00) for the second offense, and (3) one hundred forty dollars ($140) for the third and each subsequent offense.
(b)
This section shall not apply to:
(1)
Any emergency vehicle operator using an integrated intercom system;
(2)
Any person operating a motorcycle who is using a headset installed in a helmet and worn so as to prevent the speakers from making direct contact with the user’s ears so that the user can hear surrounding sounds;
(3)
Any person using a headset in conjunction with a cellular telephone that only provides sound through one ear and allows surrounding sounds to be heard with the other ear;
(4)
Any person using a headset in conjunction with the communicating with the central base operation that only provides sound through one ear and allows surrounding sounds to be heard with the other ear;
(5)
Any person using a hearing aid(s) or instrument for the improvement of hearing.
(c)
The department of motor vehicles shall promulgate rules and regulations necessary to implement the provisions of this section.
History of Section.
P.L. 1983, ch. 234, § 1; P.L. 1989, ch. 72, § 1; P.L. 2002, ch. 58, § 4; P.L. 2002, ch. 292, § 127; P.L. 2002, ch. 312, § 1; P.L. 2008, ch. 100, art. 12, § 10; P.L. 2013, ch. 422, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-23 - Equipment and Accessories Generally › Section 31-23-52. - Removal of catalytic converter prohibited.

§ 31-23-52. Removal of catalytic converter prohibited.
It shall be unlawful for any person to knowingly remove or render inoperative, a catalytic converter installed on or in a motor vehicle or motor vehicle engine in compliance with federal regulations prior to or after its sale and delivery to the ultimate purchaser, except that a defective catalytic converter may be replaced with another device originally manufactured for use as a catalytic converter. Any person who violates this section shall be fined not exceeding five hundred dollars ($500) for each offense.
History of Section.
P.L. 1985, ch. 198, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-23 - Equipment and Accessories Generally › Section 31-23-53. - School bus public address sound system.

§ 31-23-53. School bus public address sound system.
(a)
Every school bus placed in service shall be equipped with a public address sound system which shall be audible from a distance of not less than fifty feet (50′) and shall have a minimum of one speaker mounted outside the bus and a minimum of one speaker mounted inside the bus. The public address system and the method of installation shall be approved and certified by the division of motor vehicles. This system shall be inspected at all regularly scheduled inspections.
(b)
When the driver of the school bus has picked up students, the bus will remain stopped, with red lights flashing, until all students are seated. Prior to any student being permitted to disembark from the bus, the driver shall look to see that all approaching traffic has stopped and observed the flashing red signal. After students have disembarked from the bus, the driver shall allow ample time for the students to clear the bus area before closing the doors and then, after remaining stopped for approximately ten (10) seconds, the driver shall announce through the public address system that the bus will proceed.
(c)
The department of elementary and secondary education shall require a demonstration of the operation of the public address system at each school. The demonstration shall take place at least two (2) times per year, one of which shall take place during the month of September.
(d)
The provisions of this section shall not apply to school buses used exclusively for the transportation of students receiving special education pursuant to chapter 24 of title 16; provided, the school buses without the inside and outside speakers may not be used for students not receiving special education, except for transportation before or after normal school hours. This provision shall be limited to secondary education students.
History of Section.
P.L. 1986, ch. 329, § 1; P.L. 1987, ch. 311, § 1; P.L. 1994, ch. 70, art. 23, § 1; P.L. 2000, ch. 109, § 68.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-23 - Equipment and Accessories Generally › Section 31-23-54. - School buses — Fire extinguishers.

§ 31-23-54. School buses — Fire extinguishers.
Every school bus shall be equipped with at least one pressurized, dry chemical-type fire extinguisher, mounted in the manufacturer’s extinguisher bracket and located in the driver’s compartment in full view of and readily accessible to the driver. A pressure gauge shall be so mounted on the extinguisher so that it may be easily read without removing the extinguisher from its mounted position. The fire extinguisher shall have a minimum capacity of two and one-half pounds (2
1
/
2
lbs.) and be of a type approved by the Underwriters Laboratories, Inc., with a rating of not less than ten (10) B:C. The operating mechanism shall be sealed with a type of seal that will not interfere with use of the fire extinguisher.
History of Section.
P.L. 1986, ch. 448, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-23 - Equipment and Accessories Generally › Section 31-23-55. - Speedometer and odometer.

§ 31-23-55. Speedometer and odometer.
Every school bus is required to be equipped with a speedometer and odometer in good working order at all times. The odometer may be installed separate and apart from the odometer normally included in the speedometer head.
History of Section.
P.L. 1986, ch. 448, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-23 - Equipment and Accessories Generally › Section 31-23-56. - Stop arm required.

§ 31-23-56. Stop arm required.
Every school bus shall be equipped with a stop arm, approved by the department of revenue, which shall be activated whenever school children are being loaded or unloaded.
History of Section.
P.L. 1987, ch. 360, § 1; P.L. 2008, ch. 98, § 19; P.L. 2008, ch. 145, § 19.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-23 - Equipment and Accessories Generally › Section 31-23-57. - Eye protection for motorcycle operators.

§ 31-23-57. Eye protection for motorcycle operators.
(a)
Every motorcycle operator shall be required to wear protective eyewear while operating on any highway within the state. The eyewear shall include, but not be limited to, safety goggles, safety eyeglasses, or a safety shield.
(b)
Any person who violates the provisions of this section shall be fined twenty-five dollars ($25.00) for the first offense, fifty dollars ($50.00) for the second offense, and one hundred dollars ($100) for the third and each subsequent offense.
History of Section.
P.L. 1988, ch. 537, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-23 - Equipment and Accessories Generally › Section 31-23-58. - Department of transportation — Vehicles — Backup warning device.

§ 31-23-58. Department of transportation — Vehicles — Backup warning device.
All state trucks in use by the department of transportation shall be equipped with a backup warning device that meets the latest minimum standards as promulgated by either federal occupational health and safety standards or the standards set by the department of transportation.
History of Section.
P.L. 2007, ch. 265, § 1; P.L. 2007, ch. 323, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-23.1 - Vehicle Equipment Safety Compact › Section 31-23.1-2. - Legislative findings.

§ 31-23.1-2. Legislative findings.
The legislature finds that:
(1)
The public safety necessitates the continuous development, modernization, and implementation of standards and requirements of law relating to vehicle equipment, in accordance with expert knowledge and opinion.
(2)
The public safety further requires that those standards and requirements be uniform from jurisdiction to jurisdiction, except to the extent that specific and compelling evidence supports variation.
(3)
The division of motor vehicles, acting upon recommendations of the vehicle equipment safety commission and pursuant to the Vehicle Equipment Safety Compact, provides a just, equitable, and orderly means of promoting the public safety in the manner and within the scope contemplated by this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1963, ch. 43, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-23.1 - Vehicle Equipment Safety Compact › Section 31-23.1-3. - Supersession of other laws.

§ 31-23.1-3. Supersession of other laws.
Provisions of chapters 23 and 24 of this title shall continue to be of force and effect only until superseded by a rule, regulation, or code adopted by the general assembly pursuant to the Vehicle Equipment Safety Compact. Any superseding rule, regulation, or code shall specify the provision or provisions of existing statute being superseded in accordance with and as required by this chapter. The provision or provisions are repealed, effective on the date when the rule, regulation or, code superseding the provision or provisions becomes effective pursuant to the Vehicle Equipment Safety Compact, and any violation of the superseding provision or provisions shall be a civil violation.
History of Section.
P.L. 1963, ch. 43, § 1; P.L. 1999, ch. 218, art. 6, § 12.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-23.1 - Vehicle Equipment Safety Compact › Section 31-23.1-4. - Legislative approval.

§ 31-23.1-4. Legislative approval.
Pursuant to article V(e) of the Vehicle Equipment Safety Compact, it is the intention of this state and it is provided that no rule, regulation, or code issued by the vehicle equipment safety commission in accordance with article V of the compact shall take effect until approved by act of the legislature.
History of Section.
P.L. 1963, ch. 43, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-23.1 - Vehicle Equipment Safety Compact › Section 31-23.1-5. - Rhode Island commissioner.

§ 31-23.1-5. Rhode Island commissioner.
The commissioner of this state on the vehicle equipment safety commission shall be the administrator of the division of motor vehicles who shall serve during his or her continuance as the officer. The commissioner of this state appointed pursuant to this section may designate an alternate from among the officers and employees of the commissioner’s agency to serve in his or her place and stead on the vehicle equipment safety commission. Subject to the provisions of the compact and bylaws of the vehicle equipment safety commission, the authority and responsibilities of the alternate shall be as determined by the commissioner designating the alternate.
History of Section.
P.L. 1963, ch. 43, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-23.1 - Vehicle Equipment Safety Compact › Section 31-23.1-6. - Employees’ retirement.

§ 31-23.1-6. Employees’ retirement.
The employees’ retirement system of the state of Rhode Island may make an agreement with the vehicle equipment safety commission for the coverage of the commission’s employees pursuant to article III(f) of the compact. The agreement, as nearly as may be, shall provide for arrangements similar to those available to the employees of this state, and shall be subject to amendment or termination in accordance with its terms.
History of Section.
P.L. 1963, ch. 43, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-23.1 - Vehicle Equipment Safety Compact › Section 31-23.1-7. - Departmental cooperation.

§ 31-23.1-7. Departmental cooperation.
Within appropriations available for them, the departments, agencies, and officers of the government of this state may cooperate with and assist the vehicle equipment safety commission within the scope contemplated by article III(h) of the compact. The departments, agencies, and officers of the government of this state are authorized generally to cooperate with the commission.
History of Section.
P.L. 1963, ch. 43, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-23.1 - Vehicle Equipment Safety Compact › Section 31-23.1-8. - Filings.

§ 31-23.1-8. Filings.
Filing of documents as required by article III(j) of the compact shall be with the division of motor vehicles.
History of Section.
P.L. 1963, ch. 43, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-23.1 - Vehicle Equipment Safety Compact › Section 31-23.1-9. - Budget.

§ 31-23.1-9. Budget.
Pursuant to article VI(a) of the compact, the vehicle equipment safety commission shall submit its budgets to the administrator of the division of motor vehicles.
History of Section.
P.L. 1963, ch. 43, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-23.1 - Vehicle Equipment Safety Compact › Section 31-23.1-10. - Inspection of accounts.

§ 31-23.1-10. Inspection of accounts.
Pursuant to article VI(e) of the compact, the department of revenue is empowered and authorized to inspect the accounts of the vehicle equipment safety commission.
History of Section.
P.L. 1963, ch. 43, § 1; P.L. 2008, ch. 98, § 20; P.L. 2008, ch. 145, § 20.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-23.1 - Vehicle Equipment Safety Compact › Section 31-23.1-11. - “Executive head” defined.

§ 31-23.1-11. “Executive head” defined.
“Executive head” as used in article IX(b) of the compact, with reference to this state, means the governor.
History of Section.
P.L. 1963, ch. 43, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-23.2 - Tampering with Odometers › Section 31-23.2-1. - Declaration of findings and purpose.

§ 31-23.2-1. Declaration of findings and purpose.
(a)
The general assembly finds:
(1)
That purchasers, when buying motor vehicles, rely heavily on the odometer reading as an index of the condition and value of the vehicle;
(2)
That purchasers are entitled to rely on the odometer reading as an accurate reflection of the mileage actually traveled by the vehicle;
(3)
That an accurate indication of the mileage traveled by a motor vehicle, assists the purchaser in determining its safety and reliability; and
(4)
That motor vehicles move in the current of interstate and foreign commerce or affect that commerce.
(b)
It is therefore the purpose of this chapter to prohibit tampering with odometers on motor vehicles, to establish certain safeguards for the protection of purchasers with respect to the sale of motor vehicles having altered or reset odometers, and to create civil and criminal sanctions for the violation of the provisions of this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1972, ch. 14, § 1; P.L. 1985, ch. 392, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-23.2 - Tampering with Odometers › Section 31-23.2-2. - Definitions.

§ 31-23.2-2. Definitions.
As used in this title:
(1)
“Motor vehicle” means any vehicle driven or drawn by mechanical power for use on the public streets, roads, and highways;
(2)
“Odometer” means an instrument for measuring and recording the actual distance a motor vehicle travels while in operation;
(3)
“Person” means any individual, sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation, or business trust including, but not limited to, private individuals and motor vehicle dealers, both wholesale and retail, whether the private individual or dealer is a dealer in the ordinary course of business or not;
(4)
“Repair and replacement” means to restore to a sound working condition by replacing the instrument or any part thereof or by correcting what is inoperative;
(5)
“Transfer” means to acquire ownership by purchase, gift, bequest, or any other means.
History of Section.
P.L. 1972, ch. 14, § 1; P.L. 1985, ch. 392, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-23.2 - Tampering with Odometers › Section 31-23.2-3. - Unlawful devices.

§ 31-23.2-3. Unlawful devices.
It is unlawful for any person to advertise for sale, to sell, to use, or to install or to have installed, any device which causes the odometer to register any mileage other than the true mileage driven. For the purpose of this section the “true mileage driven” is that mileage driven by the vehicle as registered by the odometer within the manufacturer’s designed tolerance.
History of Section.
P.L. 1972, ch. 14, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-23.2 - Tampering with Odometers › Section 31-23.2-4. - Unlawful activity.

§ 31-23.2-4. Unlawful activity.
It is unlawful for any person or his or her agent to disconnect, reset, or alter the odometer of any motor vehicle with the intent to reduce the number of miles indicated on it.
History of Section.
P.L. 1972, ch. 14, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-23.2 - Tampering with Odometers › Section 31-23.2-5. - Maintenance.

§ 31-23.2-5. Maintenance.
Nothing in this chapter shall prevent the service, repair, or replacement of an odometer, provided the mileage indicated on it remains the same as before the service, repair, or replacement. Where the odometer is incapable of registering the same mileage as before the service, repair, or replacement, the odometer shall be adjusted to read zero.
History of Section.
P.L. 1972, ch. 14, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-23.2 - Tampering with Odometers › Section 31-23.2-7. - Penalty.

§ 31-23.2-7. Penalty.
(a)
A person who shall violate any of the sections of this chapter shall be punished by imprisonment for up to five (5) years or a fine of not more than ten thousand dollars ($10,000) or one dollar ($1.00) for each mile representing the difference between the actual mileage driven and the mileage as represented on the vehicle at the time of sale, and the person may be prohibited from working for any motor vehicle dealer authorized to do business in the state of Rhode Island for a period of not more than one year; and if the person has been issued plates pursuant to § 31-3-25, the plates may be revoked.
(b)
Should any person who violates any of the sections of this chapter possess a motor vehicle dealer’s license, this license shall be revoked upon his or her conviction for a period of not more than one year.
History of Section.
P.L. 1972, ch. 14, § 1; P.L. 1984, ch. 256, § 1; P.L. 1985, ch. 392, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-23.2 - Tampering with Odometers › Section 31-23.2-8. - Cause of action — Statute of limitations — Damages.

§ 31-23.2-8. Cause of action — Statute of limitations — Damages.
(a)
Notwithstanding the provisions of any general or public law to the contrary, any person who suffers a loss as a result of a violation of any provision of this chapter, may commence an action in either the superior or district court within three (3) years from the date of discovery of the loss, or within one year from the date when through the exercise of reasonable diligence, the cause of the loss should have been discovered, whichever is later. If the seller of any motor vehicle or any previous owner shall have knowingly violated any of the provisions of this chapter, he or she shall be liable to any subsequent good faith purchaser in an amount equal to three (3) times the amount of actual damages and shall also be liable for punitive damages, costs, and reasonable attorney’s fees as determined by the court.
(b)
Prior to initiating any legal action as set forth in subsection (a) of this section, a person shall serve a written demand upon the seller or any previous owner by registered mail, return receipt requested, containing the following information:
(1)
That the buyer believes the odometer has been tampered with;
(2)
Date of purchase;
(3)
Name of buyer and seller;
(4)
Make, model, year, and VIN of motor vehicle;
(5)
Sales price;
(6)
Present mileage;
(7)
Any repairs done on the motor vehicle since its purchase; and
(8)
A demand for a refund or a replacement motor vehicle of comparable value within thirty (30) days of the notification of the seller or previous owner. Should the seller or previous owner comply with the demand within thirty (30) days, the buyer shall forfeit any right to proceed in accordance with subsection (a) of this section. Additionally, a replacement motor vehicle shall be accepted by any financial institution financing the motor vehicle replaced as substitute collateral on any notes made to finance the replaced motor vehicle, and the owner/borrower and/or guarantors on the notes shall not have to pay any penalties or refinance charges.
(c)
Any person who knowingly violates any of the provisions of this chapter, shall be absolutely liable to any person suffering a loss, and it shall not be a defense that any plaintiff contributed to his or her own loss.
History of Section.
P.L. 1972, ch. 14, § 1; P.L. 1984, ch. 76, § 1; P.L. 1985, ch. 392, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-23.2 - Tampering with Odometers › Section 31-23.2-9. - Other laws unaffected.

§ 31-23.2-9. Other laws unaffected.
This chapter does not annul, alter, affect, or exempt any person subject to the provisions of this chapter from complying with the laws of any state with respect to the disconnecting, altering, or tampering with odometers with the intent to defraud, except to the extent that those laws are inconsistent with any provision of this chapter, and then only to the extent of the inconsistency.
History of Section.
P.L. 1972, ch. 14, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-23.2 - Tampering with Odometers › Section 31-23.2-10. - Division of motor vehicles — Odometer inspection.

§ 31-23.2-10. Division of motor vehicles — Odometer inspection.
(a)
Notwithstanding any other provisions of the general laws, the division of motor vehicles shall require the inspection by a member of a city or town police department, of the odometer of every motor vehicle purchased from a seller from outside the state of Rhode Island, prior to issuing a certificate of title in accordance with the provisions of § 31-23.2-6.
(b)
For each vehicle inspected, the local police department may collect a fee of ten dollars ($10.00).
(c)
In the town of Exeter, the town sergeant, or designees, who shall also be employees of the Exeter town sergeant’s office, are authorized to conduct the inspection required by this section.
History of Section.
P.L. 1985, ch. 392, § 3; P.L. 1987, ch. 118, art. 23, § 3; P.L. 1987, ch. 420, § 2; P.L. 2021, ch. 190, § 2, effective July 8, 2021; P.L. 2021, ch. 191, § 2, effective July 8, 2021.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-23.2 - Tampering with Odometers › Section 31-23.2-11. - Violation constituting deceptive trade practice.

§ 31-23.2-11. Violation constituting deceptive trade practice.
Any violation of the provisions of this chapter shall constitute a deceptive trade practice under the terms of chapter 13.1 of title 6. In addition to the provisions of § 31-23.2-8, all of the public and private remedies provided for in chapter 13.1 of title 6 shall be available to enforce the provisions of this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1984, ch. 76, § 2; P.L. 1985, ch. 392, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-23.2 - Tampering with Odometers › Section 31-23.2-12. - Dealers — Bonding.

§ 31-23.2-12. Dealers — Bonding.
All motor vehicle dealers licensed by the state of Rhode Island shall post a bond of not less than fifteen thousand dollars ($15,000) with the Rhode Island motor vehicle dealers license commission for the purpose of indemnifying a good faith purchaser who suffers any loss occasioned by a violation of the general laws or the rules and regulations of the commission. The bond shall be renewed annually and shall continue in effect for two (2) years after any dealer goes out of business.
History of Section.
P.L. 1985, ch. 392, § 3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-23.2 - Tampering with Odometers › Section 31-23.2-13. - Dealers — Records.

§ 31-23.2-13. Dealers — Records.
All motor vehicle dealers licensed by the state of Rhode Island shall retain all records involving the transfer of motor vehicles in the state of Rhode Island, including, but not limited to, those set forth in § 31-23.2-6(a) and (b), for a period of six (6) years after the date of sale of each motor vehicle.
History of Section.
P.L. 1985, ch. 392, § 3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-23.3 - Nontransparent Windshields and Windows › Section 31-23.3-1. - Definitions.

§ 31-23.3-1. Definitions.
The following words and phrases, for the purposes of this chapter only, have the following meanings:
(1)
“Motor vehicle” means any vehicle, except those vehicles defined in § 31-1-8 as vehicles used in farm husbandry, which is registered or required to be registered in the state.
(2)
“Multipurpose passenger vehicle” means a motor vehicle with motive power designed to carry ten (10) persons or fewer which is constructed either on a truck chassis or with special features for occasional off-road operation.
(3)
“Reflectance” means the ratio of the amount of total light, expressed in a percentage, which is reflected outward by the product or material to the amount of total light falling on the product or material.
(4)
“Sunscreening material” means a product or material, including film, glazing, and perforated sunscreening, which, when applied to the windshield or windows of a motor vehicle, reduces the effects of the sun with respect to light reflectance or transmittance.
(5)
“Transmittance” means the ratio of the amount of total light, expressed in a percentage, which is allowed to pass through the product or material, including glazing, to the amount of total light falling on the product or material and the glazing.
(6)
“Window” means any device designed for exterior viewing from a motor vehicle, except the windshield, any roof-mounted viewing device, and any viewing device having less than one hundred fifty (150) square inches in area.
(7)
“Windshield” means the front exterior viewing device of a motor vehicle.
History of Section.
P.L. 1993, ch. 250, § 1; P.L. 1993, ch. 408, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-23.3 - Nontransparent Windshields and Windows › Section 31-23.3-2. - Windshields and windows obscured by nontransparent materials.

§ 31-23.3-2. Windshields and windows obscured by nontransparent materials.
No person shall own and operate any motor vehicle upon any public highway, road or street with nontransparent or sunscreen material, window application, reflective film or non-reflective film used in any way to cover or treat the front windshield, the side windows immediately adjacent to the right and left of the operator’s seat, the side windows immediately to the rear of the operator’s seat and the front passenger seat and the rear window unless this vehicle meets one of the criteria set forth in § 31-23.3-3.
History of Section.
P.L. 1993, ch. 250, § 1; P.L. 1993, ch. 408, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-23.3 - Nontransparent Windshields and Windows › Section 31-23.3-3. - Rules and regulations authorized — Administrator of the division of motor vehicles.

§ 31-23.3-3. Rules and regulations authorized — Administrator of the division of motor vehicles.
(a)
The administrator of the division of motor vehicles shall establish rules and regulations to provide standards and tests to measure the percentage of reflective and transmittance of light.
(b)
Any person, firm, corporation, or other entity installing such a sunscreen device on a motor vehicle shall provide and affix a label to the front window not to exceed one and one-half (1½) square inches in size, which contains the installer’s name and the percentage of light transmittance. Facing the motor vehicle from the outside, the label shall be placed in the lower left corner of the front window.
History of Section.
P.L. 1993, ch. 250, § 1; P.L. 1993, ch. 408, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-23.3 - Nontransparent Windshields and Windows › Section 31-23.3-4. - Exemptions.

§ 31-23.3-4. Exemptions.
The provisions of this chapter shall not apply to:
(1)
Motor vehicles manufactured with windshields and window glass areas equipped in accordance with specifications of 49 CFR 571.205 as authorized by 15 U.S.C. § 1407.
(2)
Motor vehicles owned or leased by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies.
(3)
The use of nontransparent or sunscreen material or window application on motor vehicles which has a total visible light transmittance of not less than seventy percent (70%) measured perpendicular to the surface of the glass on the windshield and side windows immediately adjacent to the right and left of the operator’s seat, the side windows immediately to the rear of the operator’s seat and the front passenger seat or on the rear window if the vehicle is equipped with two (2) outside mirrors, one on each side, adjusted so that the driver has a clear view of the highway behind the vehicle.
(4)
The use of any transparent material limited to the uppermost six inches (6") along the top of the windshield, provided the strip does not encroach upon the driver’s direct forward viewing area as more particularly described and defined in applicable Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards.
(5)
Motor vehicles not required to be registered in this state.
(6)
The use of sunscreen material on windows behind the driver in trucks, buses, trailers, mobile homes, campers, multipurpose vehicles, charter buses, funeral service vehicles, or limousines, provided that the vehicle is equipped with two (2) outside mirrors, one on each side, if those mirrors meet federal standards adjusted so the driver has a clear view of the highway behind the vehicle.
(7)
A motor vehicle registered in this state in the name of a person, or the person’s legal guardian, who has an affidavit signed by a physician or an optometrist licensed to practice in this state that states that the person has a physical condition that makes it necessary to equip the motor vehicle with a sunscreening device which may exceed federal standards. The division of motor vehicles, upon application of the individual, which shall include the affidavit, shall issue a sticker to be applied to the driver’s side window to identify this exemption.
(8)
Any motor vehicle, registered and garaged within this state, whose sole purpose is to provide executive security to persons within this state. The owner(s) of the vehicle shall first seek and obtain written permission from the local police chief where the vehicle is garaged and registered before the waiver is granted.
History of Section.
P.L. 1993, ch. 250, § 1; P.L. 1993, ch. 408, § 1; P.L. 1994, ch. 76, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-23.3 - Nontransparent Windshields and Windows › Section 31-23.3-5. - Penalties.

§ 31-23.3-5. Penalties.
(a)
Any person, firm, corporation, or other business entity that installs any sunscreening material which is not in compliance with the provisions of this chapter shall be fined not more than two hundred fifty dollars ($250) for each offense.
(b)
Any person who owns a motor vehicle which has installed on it any sunscreening device or material in violation of this chapter shall be fined not more than two hundred fifty dollars ($250).
History of Section.
P.L. 1993, ch. 250, § 1; P.L. 1993, ch. 408, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-23.3 - Nontransparent Windshields and Windows › Section 31-23.3-6. - Vehicles with existing sunscreening materials.

§ 31-23.3-6. Vehicles with existing sunscreening materials.
The owners of all motor vehicles who have sunscreening material in their motor vehicle in violation of the provisions of this chapter may be found in violation of the provisions of this chapter; provided, an owner of a motor vehicle shall not be required to remove any sunscreening material if that material was initially installed by the motor vehicle manufacturer and was purchased prior to December 1, 1993.
History of Section.
P.L. 1993, ch. 250, § 1; P.L. 1993, ch. 408, § 1; P.L. 2000, ch. 109, § 73.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-24 - Lighting Equipment and Reflectors › Section 31-24-1. - Times when lights required.

§ 31-24-1. Times when lights required.
(a)
Every vehicle upon a highway within this state at any time from sunset to sunrise and at any other time when windshield wipers are in use, as a result of rain, sleet, snow, hail or other unfavorable atmospheric condition, or at any other time when there is not sufficient light or visibility, because of severe rain or any other condition, to clearly see persons and vehicles on the highway at a distance of five hundred feet (500′) ahead, shall display lighted lamps and illuminating devices as respectively required under this chapter for different classes of vehicles, subject to the exceptions given in this chapter with respect to parked vehicles.
(b)
Violations of this section are subject to fines enumerated in § 31-41.1-4.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 34, § 2; G.L. 1956, § 31-24-1; P.L. 1982, ch. 25, § 1; P.L. 1983, ch. 298, § 1; P.L. 1994, ch. 226, § 1; P.L. 1999, ch. 8, § 1; P.L. 2002, ch. 292, § 121.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-24 - Lighting Equipment and Reflectors › Section 31-24-2. - Means of measuring distance of visibility.

§ 31-24-2. Means of measuring distance of visibility.
Whenever a requirement is declared in this chapter as to the distance from which certain lamps and devices shall render objects visible or within which the lamps or devices shall be visible, the provisions shall apply during the times stated in § 31-24-1 in respect to a vehicle without load when upon a straight, level, unlighted highway under normal atmospheric conditions unless a different time or condition is expressly stated.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 34, § 3; G.L. 1956, § 31-24-2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-24 - Lighting Equipment and Reflectors › Section 31-24-3. - Measurement of height of lamps.

§ 31-24-3. Measurement of height of lamps.
Whenever a requirement is declared in this chapter as to the mounted height of lamps or devices, it shall mean from the center of the lamp or device to the level ground upon which the vehicle stands when the vehicle is without a load.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 34, § 3; G.L. 1956, § 31-24-3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-24 - Lighting Equipment and Reflectors › Section 31-24-4. - Head lamps on vehicles other than cycles.

§ 31-24-4. Head lamps on vehicles other than cycles.
Every motor vehicle other than a motorcycle or motor-driven cycle shall be equipped with at least two (2) head lamps with at least one on each side of the front of the motor vehicle, and the head lamps shall comply with the requirements and limitations of this chapter. Violations of this section are subject to fines enumerated in § 31-41.1-4.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 34, § 4; P.L. 1956, ch. 3846, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 31-24-4; P.L. 2002, ch. 292, § 121.