reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-68.1 - Radiologic Technologists › Section 5-68.1-10. - Fees.

§ 5-68.1-10. Fees.
(a)
The director, in consultation with the board, shall establish an initial application fee as set forth in § 23-1-54 and a license renewal fee that shall be prescribed in rules and regulations promulgated pursuant to § 5-68.1-15.
(b)
The proceeds of any fees collected pursuant to the provisions of this chapter shall be deposited in the general fund as general revenues.
History of Section.
P.L. 2010, ch. 137, § 2; P.L. 2010, ch. 139, § 2; P.L. 2012, ch. 241, art. 9, § 26.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-68.1 - Radiologic Technologists › Section 5-68.1-11. - Denial, suspension, revocation, and reinstatement of licenses.

§ 5-68.1-11. Denial, suspension, revocation, and reinstatement of licenses.
(a)
The board may recommend refusal, suspension, or revocation of any license, in accordance with the provisions of chapter 35 of title 42, for any of the following causes:
(1)
Having a certificate, license, or registration to practice radiologic technology revoked, suspended, or otherwise acted against, including being denied certification by a national organization, by a specialty board recognized by the director, or by a certification authority of another state, territory, or country;
(2)
Fraud in the procurement of any license under this chapter, including, but not limited to, impersonating or acting as proxy for an applicant in an examination for licensure in the field of radiologic technology;
(3)
Being convicted or found guilty, regardless of adjudication, in any jurisdiction of a crime that directly relates to the practice of radiologic technology or to the ability to practice radiologic technology. Pleading nolo contendere shall be considered a conviction for the purpose of this provision;
(4)
Incompetence or engaging in negligent or unprofessional conduct, which includes, but is not limited to, any departure from, or the failure to conform to, the standards of practice of radiologic technology as established by the director, in which case actual injury need not be established;
(5)
Being unable to practice radiologic technology with reasonable skill and safety to patients by reason of illness or use of alcohol, drugs, narcotics, chemicals, or other materials or as a result of any mental or physical condition. A licensee affected under this paragraph shall, at reasonable intervals, be afforded an opportunity to demonstrate that he or she can resume the competent practice of radiologic technology with reasonable skill and safety;
(6)
Making or filing a false report or record that the licensee knows to be false; intentionally or negligently failing to file a report or record required by state or federal law; or willfully impeding or obstructing such filing or inducing another to so. Such reports or records include only those reports or records that are signed in the capacity of the licensee;
(7)
Violating, or aiding or abetting any person to violate, any provision of this chapter, any rule or regulation promulgated pursuant to this chapter, or any lawful order of the director previously entered in a disciplinary proceeding or failing to comply with a lawfully issued subpoena of the director.
(b)
Five (5) years from the date of revocation of a license under this chapter, application may be made for reinstatement, restoration, or modification of probation. The board has the discretion to accept or reject any application for the reinstatement.
History of Section.
P.L. 2010, ch. 137, § 2; P.L. 2010, ch. 139, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-68.1 - Radiologic Technologists › Section 5-68.1-12. - Grounds for discipline without hearing.

§ 5-68.1-12. Grounds for discipline without hearing.
The director may temporarily suspend the license of a radiologic technologist without a hearing if the director finds that evidence in his or her possession indicates that a radiologic technologist’s continuation in practice would constitute an immediate danger to the public. In the event that the director temporarily suspends the license of a radiologic technologist without a hearing, a hearing by the board must be held within ten (10) days after the suspension has occurred.
History of Section.
P.L. 2010, ch. 137, § 2; P.L. 2010, ch. 139, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-68.1 - Radiologic Technologists › Section 5-68.1-13. - Appeals from board or director.

§ 5-68.1-13. Appeals from board or director.
An appeal from any decision or order of the board or director may be taken in accordance with the provisions of chapter 35 of title 42.
History of Section.
P.L. 2010, ch. 137, § 2; P.L. 2010, ch. 139, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-68.1 - Radiologic Technologists › Section 5-68.1-14. - Penalties.

§ 5-68.1-14. Penalties.
A violation of any provision of this chapter shall be punishable by a civil fine of not less than three hundred dollars ($300) for the first offense. Each subsequent offense shall be punishable by a fine of not less than five hundred dollars ($500).
History of Section.
P.L. 2010, ch. 137, § 2; P.L. 2010, ch. 139, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-68.1 - Radiologic Technologists › Section 5-68.1-15. - Rules and regulations.

§ 5-68.1-15. Rules and regulations.
The director is authorized to promulgate rules and regulations as are in accord with the purposes of this chapter, and in accordance with the provisions of chapter 35 of title 42.
History of Section.
P.L. 2010, ch. 137, § 2; P.L. 2010, ch. 139, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-68.1 - Radiologic Technologists › Section 5-68.1-16. - Severability.

§ 5-68.1-16. Severability.
If any provision of this chapter, or of any rule or regulation made under this chapter, or the application of this chapter to any person or circumstances is held invalid by a court of competent jurisdiction, the remainder of the chapter, rule, or regulation, and the application of this provision to other persons or circumstances, shall not be affected.
History of Section.
P.L. 2010, ch. 137, § 2; P.L. 2010, ch. 139, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-69 - License Procedure for Chemical Dependency Professionals › Section 5-69-1. - Short title.

§ 5-69-1. Short title.
This chapter shall be known and may be cited as the “Rhode Island Chemical Dependency Professional Act.”
History of Section.
P.L. 1994, ch. 117, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-69 - License Procedure for Chemical Dependency Professionals › Section 5-69-3. - Title and practice regulation.

§ 5-69-3. Title and practice regulation.
(a)
Any individual licensed under this chapter may use the title “licensed chemical dependency professional” and the abbreviation “LCDP” or the title “licensed chemical dependency clinical supervisor” and the abbreviation “LCDCS” provided that the title and abbreviation shall correspond to the license held pursuant to this chapter.
(b)
No individual shall represent herself or himself as a “licensed chemical dependency professional,” “LCDP,” “licensed chemical dependency clinical supervisor,” “LCDCS” unless he or she is licensed as a “licensed chemical dependency professional” or “licensed chemical dependency clinical supervisor” pursuant to this chapter and provided that the title and abbreviation shall correspond to the license held pursuant to this chapter.
(c)
Those presently holding the title “advanced chemical dependency professional,” “advanced chemical dependency professional II,” and/or “licensed chemical dependency clinical supervisor” shall qualify for licensure as a “licensed chemical dependency professional” and/or “licensed chemical dependency clinical supervisor.” These applications must be received within ninety (90) days of the effective date of this chapter. The regular licensing fee of fifty dollars ($50.00) shall apply.
History of Section.
P.L. 1994, ch. 117, § 1; P.L. 1995, ch. 370, art. 14, § 13; P.L. 2008, ch. 100, art. 11, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-69 - License Procedure for Chemical Dependency Professionals › Section 5-69-3.1. - Auricular acudetox practice regulation.

§ 5-69-3.1. Auricular acudetox practice regulation.
(a)
Any individual licensed under this chapter and trained to perform auricular acudetox may perform the procedure within that individual’s current scope of practice; provided that the individual obtains a certificate of training from a recognized organization or agency that meets or exceeds NADA training and is under the general supervision of a licensed acupuncturist pursuant to chapter 37.2 of this title.
(b)
Acudetox may be performed by acudetox specialists working in, or in collaboration with, behavioral health and healthcare agencies, or other state-approved programs or agencies.
(c)
Any individual performing auricular acudetox shall not use the title “acupuncturist,” as defined in chapter 37.2 of this title, or otherwise represent themselves as an acupuncture professional and shall not perform acupuncture outside of the scope of the auricular acudetox procedure as defined in § 5-69-2.
(d)
Any complaints filed against an ADS specialist relating to the performance of any auricular acudetox procedure shall be handled by the licensing board in conformance with the disciplinary procedure set forth in this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 2016, ch. 183, § 2; P.L. 2016, ch. 187, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-69 - License Procedure for Chemical Dependency Professionals › Section 5-69-4. - Licensed chemical dependency professional/licensed chemical dependency supervisor privilege exemptions.

§ 5-69-4. Licensed chemical dependency professional/licensed chemical dependency supervisor privilege exemptions.
(a)
No licensee under this chapter or an employee of a licensee may disclose any information acquired from clients or persons consulting with the licensee to render professional services except under provisions of the federal regulation 42 C.F.R. part 2.
(b)
The provisions of this chapter do not apply to the following individuals:
(1)
Qualified members of other professions or occupations engaging in practices similar in nature to chemical dependency counseling; provided, that they are authorized by the laws of this state to engage in these practices and do not represent themselves as a “licensed chemical dependency professional” or “licensed chemical dependency clinical supervisor”;
(2)
Students/counselors engaged in entry-level internships in a department of behavioral healthcare, developmental disabilities and hospitals licensed or an ICRC/AODA member board-approved facility; provided, that the students/counselors are practicing as part of supervised work or course of study and designated by such titles as “counselor intern,” “counselor,” or “chemical dependency professional student” or other titles clearly indicating training status;
(3)
Nothing in this section shall be construed to prevent members of the clergy, peer groups, or self-help groups from performing peer counseling or self-help activities that may be, wholly or in part, included as a defined professional service as cited in § 5-69-2; provided, that no members of peer groups or self-help groups may use a title stating or implying that they are a licensed chemical dependency professional or a licensed chemical dependency clinical supervisor unless licensed under the provisions of this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1994, ch. 117, § 1; P.L. 1995, ch. 370, art. 14, § 13; P.L. 2008, ch. 100, art. 11, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-69 - License Procedure for Chemical Dependency Professionals › Section 5-69-5. - Agency powers.

§ 5-69-5. Agency powers.
The department shall promulgate rules and regulations that are reasonably necessary for the administration of this chapter and to further its purposes. The department shall, on recommendation of the licensing board, issue licenses to those qualified under this chapter. The director of the department of health may issue additional levels of licensing that may be developed, approved, or adopted by both the licensing board and the ICRC/AODA member board.
History of Section.
P.L. 1994, ch. 117, § 1; P.L. 1995, ch. 370, art. 14, § 13; P.L. 2008, ch. 100, art. 11, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-69 - License Procedure for Chemical Dependency Professionals › Section 5-69-6. - Licensing board.

§ 5-69-6. Licensing board.
(a)
Within the department there shall be established a board of licensing for chemical dependency professionals. The governor shall appoint a licensing board consisting of seven (7) members.
(b)(1)
Of the seven (7) licensing board members, three (3) shall be licensed under this chapter.
(2)
Licensing board members shall be:
(i)
Two (2) members appointed by the governor shall be representatives of groups that reflect demographics of person(s) served;
(ii)
Three (3) members shall represent the licensed professionals appointed by the director of health;
(iii)
One member shall be an active member or administrator of the Rhode Island board for certification of chemical dependency professionals appointed by the director of health;
(iv)
One member shall be a consumer advocate from an established substance abuse recovery consumer advocacy group appointed by the director of health.
(3)
Licensing board members shall serve without compensation.
(4)
Each licensing board member shall take and subscribe to the oath of affirmation prescribed by law and shall file this oath in the office of the secretary of state.
(5)
The term of office shall be three (3) years, except that of the members of the first licensing board. Three (3) shall be appointed for a term of one year, three (3) for a term of two (2) years, three (3) for a term of three (3) years. At least one member representing the general public, and one member representing a minority group, as defined by the federal Department of Health, Education, and Welfare, shall be appointed for the initial term of three (3) full years. Successors to these licensing board positions shall be appointed for a term of three (3) years each, except that any person appointed to fill a vacancy shall be for the unexpired term of office. Upon expiration of the term of office, a member shall continue to serve until a successor is appointed and qualified. No person shall be appointed for more than two (2) consecutive three-year (3) terms.
(6)
The governor may remove any member of the licensing board for neglect of duty; malfeasance; conviction of a felony while in office; or for lack of attendance/participation in board meetings. No licensing board member shall participate in any matter before the licensing board in which pecuniary interest, personal bias, or other similar conflicts of interests is established.
History of Section.
P.L. 1994, ch. 117, § 1; P.L. 1995, ch. 370, art. 14, § 13; P.L. 2008, ch. 100, art. 11, § 1; P.L. 2021, ch. 400, § 20, effective July 13, 2021; P.L. 2021, ch. 401, § 20, effective July 13, 2021.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-69 - License Procedure for Chemical Dependency Professionals › Section 5-69-7. - Powers and duties of the licensing board.

§ 5-69-7. Powers and duties of the licensing board.
(a)
The organization, meeting, and management of the licensing board shall be established by regulations promulgated by the department of health.
(b)
In addition to duties set forth in this chapter, the licensing board shall:
(1)
Examine and pass on the qualifications of all applicants identified by the ICRC/AODA member board that all standards have been successfully completed for licensure under this chapter, and recommend to the director that a license shall be issued to each qualified, successful applicant, attesting to the applicant’s professional qualification to practice as a “licensed chemical dependency professional” or a “licensed chemical dependency clinical supervisor”;
(2)
Recommend that the director adopt rules and regulations that set ICRC/AODA professional practice standards for licensed chemical dependency professionals and licensed chemical dependency clinical supervisors;
(3)
Recommend modifications or amendments deemed necessary to effectuate its purpose;
(4)
Be responsible for making recommendations to the director concerning all disciplinary functions carried out regarding all licenses under this chapter;
(5)
Have any other powers required to carry out the provisions of this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1994, ch. 117, § 1; P.L. 1995, ch. 370, art. 14, § 13; P.L. 2008, ch. 100, art. 11, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-69 - License Procedure for Chemical Dependency Professionals › Section 5-69-9. - Fees and renewal.

§ 5-69-9. Fees and renewal.
The nonrefundable application fee for licensure shall be as set forth in § 23-1-54. Licenses shall be renewed every two (2) years on October first of even-numbered years upon payment of a fee as set forth in § 23-1-54; compliance with ICRC/AODA member board requirements; and compliance with any additional requirements that the licensing board may promulgate. The requirements may include the establishment of standards for continuing education.
History of Section.
P.L. 1994, ch. 117, § 1; P.L. 1995, ch. 370, art. 14, § 13; P.L. 2008, ch. 100, art. 11, § 1; P.L. 2012, ch. 241, art. 9, § 27.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-69 - License Procedure for Chemical Dependency Professionals › Section 5-69-10. - Licensed professionals discipline.

§ 5-69-10. Licensed professionals discipline.
Licensees subject to this chapter shall conduct their activities, services, and practice in accordance with this chapter and with any rules promulgated pursuant to this chapter. The licensing board may recommend to the director refusal to grant a license to, or to suspend, revoke, condition, limit, qualify, or restrict the license of any individual who the licensing board or its designee, after a hearing, determines:
(1)
Is incompetent to practice under the provisions of this chapter, or is found to engage in the practice of chemical dependency counseling and/or supervision in a manner harmful or dangerous to a client or to the public;
(2)
Has obtained or attempted to obtain a license, or renewal, by bribery or fraudulent representation;
(3)
Has knowingly made a false statement on a form required by the licensing board;
(4)
Has failed to obtain the continuing education credits necessary for re-licensing;
(5)
Has engaged in sexual relations with a current client, solicited sexual relations with a current client, or committed an act of sexual abuse or sexual misconduct with a current client;
(6)
Has failed to remain free from the use of any controlled substance or any alcoholic beverages to the extent that the use impairs the ability of the person to conduct with safety to the public the practice authorized by this license. The applicant shall bear the burden of proving that he or she is free from use of any controlled substance or any alcoholic beverages that impair his or her ability to conduct with safety to the public the practice authorized by this license;
(7)
Has been convicted of a felony, which shall be waived by the board upon presentation of satisfactory evidence that the conviction does not impair the ability of the person to conduct with safety to the public the practice authorized by this license. The applicant shall bear the burden of proving that his or her conviction does not impair his or her ability to conduct with safety to the public the practice authorized by this license;
(8)
Has disciplinary action pending or has revocation, suspension, or probation taken against the licensee in Rhode Island or another state or territory of these United States;
(9)
Has failed to maintain confidentiality per federal regulation 42 C.F.R. part 2;
(10)
Has engaged in false or misleading advertising;
(11)
Has a mental disability that significantly impairs the ability or judgment (the order of a court that the licensee is in need of mental treatment for incompetency shall continue the mental disability); and
(12)
Has violated any of the provisions of this chapter, or the provisions of any code of ethics adopted by the licensing board.
History of Section.
P.L. 1994, ch. 117, § 1; P.L. 1995, ch. 370, art. 14, § 13.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-69 - License Procedure for Chemical Dependency Professionals › Section 5-69-11. - Complaints.

§ 5-69-11. Complaints.
All complaints concerning a licensee’s business or professional practice shall be received by either the licensing board or the department of health. Each complaint received shall be logged, recording at a minimum the following information:
(1)
Licensee’s name;
(2)
Name of the complaining party;
(3)
Date of complaint;
(4)
Brief statement of complaint; and
(5)
Disposition.
History of Section.
P.L. 1994, ch. 117, § 1; P.L. 1995, ch. 370, art. 14, § 13; P.L. 2008, ch. 100, art. 11, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-69 - License Procedure for Chemical Dependency Professionals › Section 5-69-12. - Disciplinary process.

§ 5-69-12. Disciplinary process.
(a)
Disciplinary procedures under this chapter shall be conducted in accordance with the administrative procedures act, chapter 35 of title 42.
(b)
The licensing board or its designee shall hear evidence produced in support of the formal charges and contrary evidence produced by the licensee. At the conclusion of the hearing, the licensing board shall make recommendations to the director who shall issue an order.
History of Section.
P.L. 1994, ch. 117, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-69 - License Procedure for Chemical Dependency Professionals › Section 5-69-13. - Disciplinary sanctions.

§ 5-69-13. Disciplinary sanctions.
(a)
The licensing board may recommend that the director impose any of the following sanctions, singly or in combination, when it finds that a licensee is guilty of any offenses described in this section:
(1)
Revocation of the license;
(2)
Suspension of the license for any period of time;
(3)
Censure of the licensee;
(4)
Issuance of a letter of reprimand;
(5)
Placement of a licensee on probationary status and requirement that the licensee submit to any of the following:
(i)
Regular reporting to the licensing board upon matters that are the basis of probation;
(ii)
Continual renewal of professional education until a satisfactory degree of skill has been attained in those areas that are the basis of probation;
(iii)
Attendance at employee-assistance counseling services;
(6)
Refusal to renew a license;
(7)
Revocation of probation that was granted and imposition of any other discipline provided in this section when the requirements of probation are not fulfilled or have been violated.
(b)
The director may reinstate any licensee to good standing under this chapter if, after a hearing, the department of health is satisfied that the applicant’s renewed practice is in the public interest.
(c)
Upon the suspension or revocation of a license issued under this chapter, a licensee shall be required to surrender the license to the director and upon failure to do so, the director shall have the right to seize the license.
(d)
The director may make available annually a list of the names and addresses of all licensees under the provisions of this chapter, and of all persons who have been disciplined within the preceding twelve (12) months.
(e)
Any persons convicted of violating the provisions of this chapter shall be guilty of a misdemeanor, punishable by a fine of not more than five hundred dollars ($500), imprisonment for not more than one year, or both.
History of Section.
P.L. 1994, ch. 117, § 1; P.L. 1995, ch. 370, art. 14, § 13; P.L. 2008, ch. 100, art. 11, § 1; P.L. 2019, ch. 308, art. 1, § 27.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-69 - License Procedure for Chemical Dependency Professionals › Section 5-69-14. - Fees collected.

§ 5-69-14. Fees collected.
Any fees collected under the provisions of this chapter shall be deposited by the department as general revenues.
History of Section.
P.L. 1995, ch. 370, art. 14, § 14; P.L. 2012, ch. 241, art. 9, § 27.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-69 - License Procedure for Chemical Dependency Professionals › Section 5-69-15. - Severability.

§ 5-69-15. Severability.
The provisions of this chapter are severable and if any of its provisions shall be held unconstitutional by any court of competent jurisdiction, the decision of that court shall not affect or impair any of the remaining provisions.
History of Section.
P.L. 1994, ch. 117, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 5-69-14; P.L. 1995, ch. 370, art. 14, § 13.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-70 - Telecommunications › Section 5-70-1. - Declaration of purpose.

§ 5-70-1. Declaration of purpose.
In order to protect the public interest and property, assure compliance with standards of technical competency, and promote safe practices in the act of designing, installing, servicing, and testing of telecommunications systems in this state, telecommunications are declared to be subject to regulation in the public interest.
History of Section.
P.L. 1994, ch. 346, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-70 - Telecommunications › Section 5-70-2. - Practices prohibited.

§ 5-70-2. Practices prohibited.
It shall be unlawful for any person not in compliance with this chapter to engage in, or to offer to design, install, alter, service, or test telecommunications systems in this state, as defined in the provisions of this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1994, ch. 346, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-70 - Telecommunications › Section 5-70-4. - Licensing authority.

§ 5-70-4. Licensing authority.
(a)
There is established a board of examination and licensing of telecommunications systems contractors, technicians, and installers that shall be composed of seven (7) members. Five (5) members of the board shall be telecommunications systems professionals who shall be qualified for licensing under the provisions of this chapter. One of these members shall also hold, at the time of appointment, an electrical contractor license, certificate A, issued by this state. Each of the four (4) categories shall be represented by a minimum of one licensed professional within that category. Each telecommunications professional member of the board shall be actively engaged in either/or the design, installation, alteration, service, and testing of telecommunications systems, as defined by this chapter, for ten (10) consecutive years immediately prior to appointment. One member of the board shall be, at the time of appointment, an electrical inspector serving a city or town in this state. One member of the board shall be, at the time of appointment, a designated representative of the state building code commission who is knowledgeable in codes and regulations involving telecommunications. Each member of the board shall be a qualified elector of the state for three (3) consecutive years prior to appointment.
(b)
Each member of the board shall be appointed by the governor with the advice and consent of the senate to serve for a term of five (5) years and until his or her successor is appointed and qualified. Not more than one member of the board shall be directly employed with or by any single business, firm, or corporation.
(c)
Initial appointments to the board shall be made for one, two (2), three (3), four (4), five (5), six (6), and seven (7) years in order to provide for the expiration of one position each year.
(d)
Vacancies occurring in the membership of the board shall be filled by the governor with the advice and consent of the senate for the unexpired portion of the term.
(e)
Each member of the board shall take and subscribe to the oath of office required of state officials generally.
History of Section.
P.L. 1994, ch. 346, § 1; P.L. 2012, ch. 134, § 1; P.L. 2012, ch. 174, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-70 - Telecommunications › Section 5-70-6. - Unauthorized practice prohibited — Criminal penalties — Injunctions.

§ 5-70-6. Unauthorized practice prohibited — Criminal penalties — Injunctions.
(a)
Except as provided in this chapter, no individual, firm, or corporation shall provide, or offer to provide, telecommunications services in this state or use any title, sign, card, or device implying that the individual, firm, or corporation is qualified to provide telecommunications services unless that individual, firm, or corporation is the beneficial holder of a currently valid license issued pursuant to this chapter.
(b)
Any individual, partnership, or corporation that is found to have violated subsection (a), after notice and a hearing before the board of examination and licensing of telecommunications systems contractors, technicians, and installers, and approved by the director of labor and training, shall be obligated to pay a fine of not more than five hundred dollars ($500) for the first offense, and a fine of not less than five hundred dollars ($500) nor more than one thousand dollars ($1,000) for each subsequent offense.
(c)
The director of labor and training has the power to institute injunction proceedings in superior court to prevent violations of subsection (a).
History of Section.
P.L. 1994, ch. 346, § 1; P.L. 1997, ch. 340, § 1; P.L. 1999, ch. 175, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-70 - Telecommunications › Section 5-70-8. - Rules and regulations — Powers of the board.

§ 5-70-8. Rules and regulations — Powers of the board.
(a)
The board shall issue certificates through the department of labor and training, division of professional regulation, in an advisory capacity to the director of labor and training, to individuals who have qualified to engage in telecommunication work under the provisions of this chapter. The board may, in an advisory capacity to the director of labor and training, establish any rules and regulations for the issuance and renewal of certificates that it deems appropriate.
(b)
The director of labor and training shall have the power to suspend, revoke, or annul certificates or licenses or impose a fine upon the certificate or license holder, for all certificates and licenses issued by the division of professional regulation, after hearing before and upon the recommendation of the board of examination and licensing of telecommunications system contractors, technicians, and installers, in accordance with the provisions of this chapter. In all disciplinary proceedings brought pursuant to this chapter, the director or his or her designee has the power to administer oaths, to summon witnesses, and to compel the production of documents in accordance with the procedures applicable in the superior court. Upon failure of any person to appear or produce documents in accordance with the director of labor and training’s order, the director of labor and training may apply to a court of any jurisdiction to enforce compliance. Members of the board shall be subject to the provisions of chapter 14 of title 36.
(c)
The director of labor and training, upon recommendation of the board, shall have the power to establish the subcategory(ies) within the mentioned licensing forms and categories that may be determined to be required to accommodate significant or substantive changes and/or improvements in current technologies or to accommodate new developments in technologies affecting telecommunications. The subcategory(ies) shall be specifically limited in purpose and scope.
History of Section.
P.L. 1994, ch. 346, § 1; P.L. 1999, ch. 175, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-70 - Telecommunications › Section 5-70-9. - Transition period.

§ 5-70-9. Transition period.
No person shall be liable for prosecution for installing, altering, servicing, and/or testing telecommunications systems for which a license is required under this chapter without a license for the six-month (6) period following enactment of this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1994, ch. 346, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-70 - Telecommunications › Section 5-70-11. - Examination.

§ 5-70-11. Examination.
(a)
The director of labor and training shall establish suitable rules and regulations for the examination and licensing of telecommunications technicians, specialists, and businesses and also governing the practice of the professions of telecommunications. This shall not include any prohibition of employment of a properly licensed telecommunications technician, specialist, or business.
(b)
The director of labor and training shall hold examinations for individuals applying for licensing at least once each quarter year; provided, that there are applicants qualified under this chapter.
(c)
The director of labor and training shall establish those rules and regulations for the examination of applicants to ensure the technical competence of the applicant in one or more of the four (4) categories defined within this chapter that it deems appropriate, but in no case shall technical competence account for less than sixty percent (60%) of the mathematical computation of the examination score and in no case will a passing grade be considered less than seventy percent (70%) of the total score within any one category. No less than twenty-five percent (25%) of the mathematical computation of the examination shall cover knowledge of applicable federal and state codes and regulations.
(d)
The director of labor and training shall periodically solicit input from appropriate regulating authorities as to recommendations of subject items to be installed in the appropriate portion of the examination.
History of Section.
P.L. 1994, ch. 346, § 1; P.L. 1997, ch. 340, § 1; P.L. 1999, ch. 175, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-70 - Telecommunications › Section 5-70-12. - Reciprocity.

§ 5-70-12. Reciprocity.
Reciprocity shall be in accordance with the bylaws of the board. Reciprocity shall be subject to the condition that the authority of a state, territory, or possession of the United States, the District of Columbia, or of any foreign country shall grant equivalent reciprocity rights to holders of licenses issued by this authority.
History of Section.
P.L. 1994, ch. 346, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-70 - Telecommunications › Section 5-70-13. - Grandfathering — Licensing of telecommunications systems contractors (TSC), telecommunications systems technicians (TST), and telecommunications systems limited installers (TSLI) without examination.

§ 5-70-13. Grandfathering — Licensing of telecommunications systems contractors (TSC), telecommunications systems technicians (TST), and telecommunications systems limited installers (TSLI) without examination.
(a)
At any time prior to the expiration of six (6) months following July 8, 1997, the authority shall, without examination, upon payment of the required fees, issue through the department of labor and training, division of professional regulation, a license “TSC,” “TST,” or “TSLI” to any applicant who shall present satisfactory evidence that he or she has the qualifications for the type and category(ies) of license applied for, and who has a minimum of three (3) years of verified, continual experience installing, altering, servicing, and testing telecommunications systems covered by the license, as applicable, in this state within the five (5) years immediately preceding July 8, 1997. Any applicant for a license TSC under this provision must further provide sworn evidence of satisfactory completion of a minimum of three (3) projects/systems for each category for which application is made.
(b)
Any person qualified to obtain a license TSC, TST, or TSLI under this section who is prevented from making application by reason of service in the armed forces of the United States during the six-month (6) period following July 8, 1997, shall have three (3) months after discharge or release from active duty to make the application.
(c)
On and after any date that the public utility commission no longer regulates a telephone company, a corporate affiliate of the telephone company, or a service provided by the company or corporate affiliate, the licensing authority shall issue through the department of labor and training, division of professional regulation, an appropriate license as provided in this chapter, to any person who is an employee of the telephone company or the corporate affiliate on this date who, as a result of the deregulation, becomes subject to the provisions of this chapter and who applies for any license in accordance with the provisions of this section not later than six (6) months after the date; provided, that any employee shall not be required to pass any examination in order to qualify for the license.
History of Section.
P.L. 1994, ch. 346, § 1; P.L. 1995, ch. 29, § 1; P.L. 1997, ch. 340, § 1; P.L. 1999, ch. 443, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-70 - Telecommunications › Section 5-70-14. - Renewal of licenses.

§ 5-70-14. Renewal of licenses.
(a)
Application for renewal of a license must be received by the licensing authority, through the department of labor and training, division of professional regulation, on a form provided by the licensing authority no less than thirty (30) days prior to the expiration date of the license, subject to the right of the licensing authority to permit late filing upon good cause shown.
(b)
The licensing authority may refuse to renew a license for any of the grounds stated in this chapter and it shall promptly notify the licensee of its intent to refuse to renew the license. The licensee may, within fifteen (15) days after receipt of the notice of intent to refuse to renew a license, request a hearing on that refusal in the manner prescribed in this chapter. A licensee shall be permitted to continue to engage in the business permitted by the license while its renewal application is pending.
(c)
Every certificate issued by the division of professional regulation to license holders born in odd years shall expire on the birthday of the individual qualifying for the license in odd years and all licenses issued by the division of professional regulation to license holders born in even years shall expire on the birthday of the individual qualifying for the license in even years. An individual may renew his or her license by payment of the required biennial renewal fee. An individual who fails to renew his or her license prior to the date may not renew his or her license after this except upon payment of the biennial renewal fee and the additional fee required by this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1994, ch. 346, § 1; P.L. 2009, ch. 257, § 2; P.L. 2009, ch. 258, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-70 - Telecommunications › Section 5-70-15. - Certificate — Identification cards.

§ 5-70-15. Certificate — Identification cards.
(a)
Upon payment of the fees required by this chapter, an individual who has complied with the requirements of this chapter is entitled to a certificate and identification card indicating that he or she is qualified for licensure under the provisions of this chapter.
(b)
Each certificate shall contain the name of the individual to whom it was issued and his or her date of birth and the category or categories under which he or she is licensed.
(c)
Each individual identification card shall contain the name of the individual to whom it was issued, his or her date of birth, the class of license, the category or categories to which he or she is licensed, and a head and shoulders picture (passport type) taken within three (3) months prior to the date of issuance of the license.
(d)
A duplicate certificate or identification card to replace one that has been lost, destroyed, or mutilated may be issued by the board upon payment of the fee required by this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1994, ch. 346, § 1; P.L. 2019, ch. 308, art. 1, § 28.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-70 - Telecommunications › Section 5-70-16. - Fees.

§ 5-70-16. Fees.
(a)
The fees paid by an applicant for filing an application for examination, for the examination, for biennial renewal, for renewal of an expired certificate, or for issuance of a duplicate certificate shall be in accordance with a section entitled “Fees,” of the regulations of the department of labor and training.
(b)
All fee or other monies collected under the provisions of this chapter shall be paid to and received by the general treasurer who shall keep those monies in a separate fund administered by the department of labor and training pursuant to § 28-22-1.1. All monies in the fund shall be used to reimburse the board for expenses incurred in the administration and enforcement of this chapter. The controller is authorized and directed to draw his or her orders upon the general treasurer for payment from the fund, upon receipt by the controller of vouchers authenticated by the chairperson or secretary of the board.
(c)
A holder of an electrical contractor’s license, certificate A, issued by this state, who has submitted the appropriate application, shall be issued a TSC license without an additional license fee other than that assessed for the electrical contractor’s license, certificate A. This shall remain an ongoing practice and does not have any grandfathering restrictions placed on it. The TSC license shall run concurrent with the electrical contractor’s license. The TSC license shall be separable from and is subject to enforcement by this board.
History of Section.
P.L. 1994, ch. 346, § 1; P.L. 2009, ch. 257, § 2; P.L. 2009, ch. 258, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-70 - Telecommunications › Section 5-70-17. - Records.

§ 5-70-17. Records.
(a)
The secretary of the board shall keep a record of its proceedings. The record shall include the name, age, and last-known address of each applicant for registration; information concerning each applicant’s education, experience, and other qualifications; the text of all examinations administered and the results; and any other information that the board deems appropriate. The record of the board shall be prima facie evidence of the proceedings and a certified transcript by the secretary shall be admissible in evidence with the same force and effect as if the original were produced.
(b)
The board shall maintain a roster of technicians, specialists, and businesses. Copies of the roster shall be made available annually to federal agencies within the state, city and town officials, and may be distributed or sold to the public.
(c)
The secretary of the board shall receive and account for all monies derived from the activities of the board and shall submit to the governor and the general assembly a report of its transactions of the preceding year.
History of Section.
P.L. 1994, ch. 346, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-70 - Telecommunications › Section 5-70-19. - Local laws — Codes.

§ 5-70-19. Local laws — Codes.
(a)
Immediately upon July 12, 1994, no local government subdivision within this state shall enact any ordinance or promulgate any rules or regulations relating to the licensing of telecommunications systems businesses or other individuals required to obtain a license under this chapter.
(b)
Sixty (60) days after enactment of this chapter, any provision of any legislation or rules or regulations of any local government subdivision within the state requiring the licensing of a telecommunications systems business or requiring that other individuals employed by or associated with a telecommunications systems business obtain licenses shall no longer be effective.
(c)
The provisions of this chapter are not intended to and do not prevent the legally constituted authority of any local government subdivision within the state by legislation, rules, or regulations, and within the police power of that local government subdivision, from requiring telecommunications systems businesses to register their names, addresses, and license certificate number with the local government subdivision within which they operate. No fee may be charged nor may any application be required by any local government subdivision for that registration.
(d)
Although this chapter preempts local government subdivisions from enacting any licensing legislation or promulgating licensing rules or regulations applicable to telecommunications systems businesses, local governmental authorities may by legislation or reasonable rules or regulations require telecommunications systems users in their jurisdiction to obtain a permit for the permanent installation of system components at the time of installation and fix a nominal fee for those permits. The fees shall be equivalent to those assessed for the installation and inspection of other systems permanently installed within a building or structure.
History of Section.
P.L. 1994, ch. 346, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-70 - Telecommunications › Section 5-70-20. - Severability.

§ 5-70-20. Severability.
The provisions of this chapter shall be severable, and if any section is declared invalid or void for any reason, the remainder of this chapter shall not be affected or impaired.
History of Section.
P.L. 1994, ch. 346, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-70 - Telecommunications › Section 5-70-21. - Inspection and right of entry.

§ 5-70-21. Inspection and right of entry.
The division of professional regulation, by and through its telecommunication investigators, shall have the right and authority to enter, during times at which telecommunication work is actually being performed in any commercial building, structure, or premises where telecommunication work is being done, except any building, structure, or premises exempt by law, for the purpose of ascertaining compliance with this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1997, ch. 340, § 2.