reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-34 - Nurses › Section 5-34-30. - Injunction of violations.

§ 5-34-30. Injunction of violations.
When it appears to the board of nurse registration and nursing education that any person is violating any of the provisions of this chapter, the director of the department of health may cause an action to be instituted, commenced in the name of the board, to enjoin that violation in a court of competent jurisdiction, and that court may enjoin any person, firm, corporation, or association from violating any of the provisions of this chapter without regard to whether proceedings have been or may be instituted before the board or whether criminal proceedings have been or may be instituted.
History of Section.
P.L. 1982, ch. 328, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-34 - Nurses › Section 5-34-31. - Practices and persons exempt.

§ 5-34-31. Practices and persons exempt.
No provisions of this chapter shall be construed as prohibiting:
(1)
Gratuitous nursing by friends or members of the family or as prohibiting the care of the sick by domestic servants, housekeepers, nursemaids, companions, or household aides of any type, whether employed regularly or because of an emergency of illness, provided that person is employed primarily in a domestic capacity and does not hold himself or herself out or accept employment as a person licensed to practice nursing for hire under the provisions of this chapter or as prohibiting nursing assistants in the case of any emergency;
(2)
The practice of nursing by students enrolled in approved educational programs of professional nursing or practical-nursing educational programs nor by graduates of those schools or courses pending the results of the licensing examinations following that graduation, provided that they are licensed in this state within ninety (90) days from the date on the application fee receipt, in accordance with regulations prescribed by the board;
(3)
The practice of nursing in this state by any legally qualified nurse of another state whose engagement requires him or her to accompany and care for a patient temporarily residing in this state during the period of this engagement not to exceed six (6) months in length, provided that person does not represent or hold himself or herself out as a nurse licensed to practice in this state;
(4)
The practice of any legally qualified nurse of another state who is employed by the United States government or any bureau, division, or agency of the government while in the discharge of his or her official duties;
(5)
Persons employed in state and licensed hospitals and sanatoria, licensed homes for the aged and/or convalescent persons, and recognized public-health agencies from assisting in the nursing care of patients if adequate medical or nursing supervision is provided;
(6)
Nursing care of the sick with or without compensation or personal profit when done in connection with the practice of the religious tenets of any recognized or established church by adherents as long as they do not engage in the practice of nursing as defined in this chapter;
(7)
Persons who provide acceptable evidence of being currently licensed by examination or endorsement under the laws of other states of the United States and the District of Columbia from practicing nursing in this state for a period of ninety (90) days from the date on the application fee receipt, provided that they are licensed in this state within ninety (90) days from the date on the application fee receipt. The original privilege to work ninety (90) days from the date on the application fee receipt shall not be extended or renewed.
History of Section.
P.L. 1982, ch. 328, § 2; P.L. 1993, ch. 93, § 1; P.L. 1993, ch. 303, § 1; P.L. 2003, ch. 125, § 2; P.L. 2003, ch. 138, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-34 - Nurses › Section 5-34-31.1. - Practices and persons exempt — COVID-19. [Expires June 30, 2022.]

§ 5-34-31.1. Practices and persons exempt — COVID-19. [Expires June 30, 2022.]
(a)
Notwithstanding the provisions of § 5-34-31, or any general law, rule, or regulation to the contrary, upon the effective date of this section, March 28, 2022, due to the public health crisis caused by COVID-19, the exemption in § 5-34-31(2) relating to the practice of nursing “pending the results of the licensing examinations following that graduation” is hereby suspended for registered nurse graduates; provided that, the registered nurse graduates shall:
(1)
Apply and receive a temporary graduate nursing license that is valid for a period not exceeding ninety (90) days;
(2)
Work under the supervision of licensed registered nurses; and
(3)
Comply with other applicable requirements.
(b)
The Rhode Island department of health shall promulgate and enforce any rules and regulations necessary to implement this section.
(c)
Unless extended by the general assembly, this section shall sunset on June 30, 2022.
History of Section.
P.L. 2022, ch. 7, § 5, effective March 28, 2022; P.L. 2022, ch. 8, § 5, effective March 28, 2022.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-34 - Nurses › Section 5-34-32. - Enforcement of chapter.

§ 5-34-32. Enforcement of chapter.
The director of health shall enforce the provisions of this chapter. He or she is exempt from providing surety for costs in connection with the commencement of any legal proceedings pursuant to this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1982, ch. 328, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-34 - Nurses › Section 5-34-33. - Severability.

§ 5-34-33. Severability.
The provisions of this chapter are severable and, if any of the provisions of this chapter are 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. 1982, ch. 328, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-34 - Nurses › Section 5-34-34. - Immunity from liability for gratuitous emergency assistance.

§ 5-34-34. Immunity from liability for gratuitous emergency assistance.
No person licensed under the provision of this chapter or members of the same professions licensed to practice in other states of the United States who voluntarily and gratuitously and, other than in the ordinary course of his or her employment or practice, renders emergency medical assistance to a person in need is liable for civil damages for any personal injuries that result from acts or omissions by those persons in rendering the emergency care that may constitute ordinary negligence. The immunity granted by this section does not apply to acts or omissions constituting gross, willful, or wanton negligence or when the medical assistance is rendered at any hospital, doctor’s office, or clinic where those services are normally rendered.
History of Section.
P.L. 1982, ch. 328, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-34 - Nurses › Section 5-34-35. - [Repealed.]

§ 5-34-35. [Repealed.]
History of Section.
P.L. 1990, ch. 162, § 2; P.L. 2003, ch. 125, § 2; P.L. 2003, ch. 138, § 2; Repealed by P.L. 2013, ch. 83, § 3, effective June 17, 2013; P.L. 2013, ch. 93, § 3, effective June 17, 2013.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-34 - Nurses › Section 5-34-36. - [Repealed.]

§ 5-34-36. [Repealed.]
History of Section.
P.L. 1990, ch. 162, § 2; P.L. 1998, ch. 48, § 1; Repealed by P.L. 2013, ch. 83, § 3, effective June 17, 2013; P.L. 2013, ch. 93, § 3, effective June 17, 2013.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-34 - Nurses › Section 5-34-37. - Application fee for certified registered nurse practitioners.

§ 5-34-37. Application fee for certified registered nurse practitioners.
The initial application fee for licensure as a certified registered nurse practitioner, the renewal fee for a certified registered nurse practitioner, and the fee for application for prescriptive privileges shall be as set forth in § 23-1-54.
History of Section.
P.L. 1990, ch. 162, § 2; P.L. 1993, ch. 138, art. 71, § 14; P.L. 2001, ch. 77, art. 14, § 9; P.L. 2007, ch. 73, art. 39, § 7; P.L. 2012, ch. 241, art. 9, § 8.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-34 - Nurses › Section 5-34-38. - Right to use certified registered nurse practitioner title.

§ 5-34-38. Right to use certified registered nurse practitioner title.
Any person who holds a license to practice as a certified registered nurse practitioner in this state has the right to use the title certified registered nurse practitioner and use the abbreviation “R.N.P..” No other person may assume that title or use that abbreviation or any other words or letters, signs, figures, or devices to indicate that the person using it is a certified registered nurse practitioner.
History of Section.
P.L. 1990, ch. 162, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-34 - Nurses › Section 5-34-39. - [Repealed.]

§ 5-34-39. [Repealed.]
History of Section.
P.L. 1990, ch. 162, § 2; P.L. 1991, ch. 210, § 1; P.L. 1994, ch. 186, § 1; P.L. 1996, ch. 429, § 1; P.L. 2003, ch. 125, § 2; P.L. 2003, ch. 138, § 2; P.L. 2008, ch. 124, § 1; P.L. 2008, ch. 186, § 1; Repealed by P.L. 2013, ch. 83, § 3, effective June 17, 2013; P.L. 2013, ch. 93, § 3, effective June 17, 2013.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-34 - Nurses › Section 5-34-40. - Advanced practice nurse advisory committee.

§ 5-34-40. Advanced practice nurse advisory committee.
(a)
The seven-member (7) committee consists of two (2) certified nurse practitioners, two (2) certified registered nurse anesthetists, two (2) certified clinical nurse specialists, and one consumer. The director of health shall appoint the committee. In making appointments to the committee, the director shall consider persons recommended by professional nurse organizations and professional medical associations. The professional members of the committee shall be currently engaged in practice. The consumer members shall be: (1) Knowledgeable in consumer health concerns; (2) A resident of the state; (3) Not licensed as a healthcare practitioner; (4) Not a parent, spouse, sibling, or child of a person licensed as a healthcare practitioner and not a student in a professional program; (5) Not having a direct financial interest in healthcare services; and (6) Not a member or an employee of any board of control of any public or private healthcare service.
(b)
Each member appointment shall be for three (3) years, with no member serving more than two (2) consecutive, three-year (3) terms, except that in making the initial appointments, the director designates: four (4) members for a term of two (2) years; three (3) members for a term of three (3) years; and the consumer members for three-year (3) terms.
(c)
This committee must meet not fewer than two (2) times per year. The committee has the following functions:
(1)
To assess advanced nursing practice for the purpose of improving patient care.
(2)(i)
To review all complaints regarding advanced practice nurses and recommend any and all disciplinary or corrective action that it deems appropriate, including revocation and suspension of license upon proof that an advanced practice nurse has:
(A)
Aided or abetted an uncertified person to practice as an advanced practice nurse;
(B)
Become addicted to the use of liquor or controlled substances;
(C)
Negligently, willfully, or intentionally acted in a manner inconsistent with the health and safety of persons entrusted to his or her care;
(D)
Had his or her authorization to practice as an advanced practice nurse denied, revoked, or suspended in another state;
(E)
Engaged in the performance of medical functions beyond the scope of practice authorized by the provisions of this chapter;
(F)
Willfully failed to file or record medical records and reports;
(G)
Mental incompetence; or
(H)
Willfully failed to maintain standards established by the nursing profession.
(ii)
The recommendation shall be submitted to the board of nursing for implementation.
(3)
To advise periodically the board of nurse registration and nursing education regarding advanced nurse practice.
History of Section.
P.L. 1990, ch. 162, § 2; P.L. 2003, ch. 125, § 2; P.L. 2003, ch. 138, § 2; P.L. 2004, ch. 151, § 1; P.L. 2004, ch. 164, § 1; P.L. 2013, ch. 83, § 1; P.L. 2013, ch. 93, § 1; P.L. 2014, ch. 528, § 3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-34 - Nurses › Section 5-34-40.1. - [Repealed.]

§ 5-34-40.1. [Repealed.]
History of Section.
P.L. 2003, ch. 125, § 3; P.L. 2003, ch. 138, § 3; Repealed by P.L. 2013, ch. 83, § 3, effective June 17, 2013; P.L. 2013, ch. 93, § 3, effective June 17, 2013.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-34 - Nurses › Section 5-34-40.2. - [Repealed.]

§ 5-34-40.2. [Repealed.]
History of Section.
P.L. 2003, ch. 125, § 3; P.L. 2003, ch. 138, § 3; Repealed by P.L. 2013, ch. 83, § 3, effective June 17, 2013; P.L. 2013, ch. 93, § 3, effective June 17, 2013.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-34 - Nurses › Section 5-34-40.3. - [Repealed.]

§ 5-34-40.3. [Repealed.]
History of Section.
P.L. 2003, ch. 125, § 3; P.L. 2003, ch. 138, § 3; P.L. 2007, ch. 73, art. 39, § 7; P.L. 2012, ch. 241, art. 9, § 8; Repealed by P.L. 2013, ch. 83, § 3, effective June 17, 2013; P.L. 2013, ch. 93, § 3, effective June 17, 2013.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-34 - Nurses › Section 5-34-40.4. - [Repealed.]

§ 5-34-40.4. [Repealed.]
History of Section.
P.L. 2003, ch. 125, § 3; P.L. 2003, ch. 138, § 3; Repealed by P.L. 2013, ch. 83, § 3, effective June 17, 2013; P.L. 2013, ch. 93, § 3, effective June 17, 2013.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-34 - Nurses › Section 5-34-41. - [Repealed.]

§ 5-34-41. [Repealed.]
History of Section.
P.L. 1997, ch. 261, § 2; P.L. 2003, ch. 125, § 2; P.L. 2003, ch. 138, § 2; Repealed by P.L. 2013, ch. 83, § 3, effective June 17, 2013; P.L. 2013, ch. 93, § 3, effective June 17, 2013.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-34 - Nurses › Section 5-34-42. - Global signature authority of certified registered nurse practitioners.

§ 5-34-42. Global signature authority of certified registered nurse practitioners.
Whenever any provision of the general or public law or regulation requires a signature, certification, stamp, verification, affidavit, or endorsement by a physician, it shall be deemed to include a signature, certification, stamp, verification, affidavit, or endorsement by a certified registered nurse practitioner; provided, however, that nothing in this section shall be construed to expand the scope of practice of nurse practitioners.
History of Section.
P.L. 2006, ch. 130, § 1; P.L. 2006, ch. 156, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-34 - Nurses › Section 5-34-43. - Criminal records review.

§ 5-34-43. Criminal records review.
(a)
Notwithstanding any provision of law to the contrary contained in any general or public law, rule, or regulation, any person seeking a license to practice under this chapter, or who is previously licensed and authorized to practice under this chapter and is seeking employment, shall undergo a federal and statewide criminal background check (BCI) that shall be processed prior to receiving a license to practice or to enter into employment.
(b)
The applicant shall apply to the bureau of criminal identification for a national criminal records check that shall include fingerprints submitted to the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Upon the discovery of any disqualifying information, the bureau of criminal identification will inform the applicant in writing of the nature of the disqualifying information and, without disclosing the nature of the disqualifying information, will notify the licensing agency or the potential employer in writing that disqualifying information has been discovered.
(c)
The applicant against whom disqualifying information has been found may request that a copy of the criminal background report be sent to the licensing agency or the potential employer. The licensing agency or the potential employer shall make a judgment regarding the issuing of a license.
(d)
In those situations in which no disqualifying information has been found, the bureau of criminal identification shall inform the applicant and the licensing agency or the potential employer in writing of this fact.
(e)
It shall be the responsibility of the applicant to pay for the criminal records check.
History of Section.
P.L. 2011, ch. 238, § 1; P.L. 2011, ch. 266, § 1; P.L. 2014, ch. 528, § 3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-34 - Nurses › Section 5-34-44. - Advanced practice registered nurses as independent practitioners.

§ 5-34-44. Advanced practice registered nurses as independent practitioners.
APRNs are licensed, independent practitioners within standards established or recognized by the board of nursing. Each APRN is accountable to patients, the nursing profession, and the board of nursing for:
(1)
Complying with the requirements of this chapter and the quality of advanced nursing care rendered;
(2)
Recognizing limits of knowledge and experience;
(3)
Planning for the management of situations beyond the APRN’s expertise;
(4)
Consulting with or referring patients to other licensed healthcare providers as appropriate.
(5)
In the case of CRNAs, complying with the requirements of chapter 34.2 of this title, including § 5-34.2-5(b) regarding scope of practice. In the case of any conflict between this chapter and chapter 34.2 of this title with regard to the licensure and practice of CRNAs, chapter 34.2 of this title shall control.
History of Section.
P.L. 2013, ch. 83, § 2; P.L. 2013, ch. 93, § 2; P.L. 2014, ch. 528, § 3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-34 - Nurses › Section 5-34-46. - Status of current licensees.

§ 5-34-46. Status of current licensees.
(a)
Any person holding a license to practice nursing as a certified nurse practitioner, psychiatric clinical nurse specialist, or certified registered nurse anesthetist, as defined in this chapter and chapter 34.2 of this title, in this state that is valid upon passage of this chapter shall be deemed to be licensed as an APRN, with his or her current privileges and shall be eligible for renewal of such license as defined under the provisions of this chapter and chapter 34.2 of this title.
(b)
Any person holding a valid license to practice nursing having graduated from an accredited course of study, actively practicing in an advanced role, and holding a national certification related to his or her current practice setting as of the effective date of this act, as defined in this chapter or chapter 34.2 of this title, shall be deemed to be eligible for an APRN license.
(c)
After August 1, 2013, all new applicants for APRN licensure must meet the stipulated licensure requirements as stated in this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 2013, ch. 83, § 2; P.L. 2013, ch. 93, § 2; P.L. 2019, ch. 308, art. 1, § 14.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-34 - Nurses › Section 5-34-47. - Titles and abbreviations.

§ 5-34-47. Titles and abbreviations.
(a)
Only those persons who hold a license or privilege to practice as advanced practice registered nurses in this state shall have the right to use the title “advanced practice registered nurse” and the roles of “certified registered nurse anesthetist,” “clinical nurse specialist,” and “certified nurse practitioner”; and the abbreviations “APRN,” “CRNA,” “CNS,” and “CNP” respectively.
(b)
The abbreviation for the APRN designation of a certified registered nurse anesthetist, a clinical nurse specialist, and for a certified nurse practitioner will be APRN, plus the role title, i.e., CRNA, CNS, and CNP.
History of Section.
P.L. 2013, ch. 83, § 2; P.L. 2013, ch. 93, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-34 - Nurses › Section 5-34-48. - APRN education programs.

§ 5-34-48. APRN education programs.
(a)
The standards for the establishment and outcomes of APRN education programs, including clinical learning experiences, shall be set by APRN national accrediting agencies recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation.
(b)
Compliance with the standards for the APRN program will be evidenced by official certification of accreditation by the appropriate national accrediting agency, a copy of which shall be submitted to the Board of Nursing. The Board of Nursing will act as the sole custodian of record for any and all documentation used to demonstrate such certification by the appropriate national accrediting agency.
History of Section.
P.L. 2013, ch. 83, § 2; P.L. 2013, ch. 93, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-34 - Nurses › Section 5-34-49. - Prescriptive authority.

§ 5-34-49. Prescriptive authority.
(a)
The board of nursing shall grant prescribing, ordering, dispensing, and furnishing authority.
(b)
An APRN licensed by the board of nursing may prescribe, order, procure, administer, dispense, and furnish over-the-counter, legend, and controlled substances pursuant to applicable state and federal laws, when the APRN has completed an educational program as described in this chapter that includes courses in pathophysiology, pharmacology, and physical assessment and is within the APRN’s role and population focus.
(c)
Prescribing, ordering, dispensing, and furnishing shall include the authority to:
(1)
Diagnose, prescribe, and institute therapy or referrals of patients to healthcare agencies, healthcare providers, and community resources;
(2)
Prescribe, procure, administer, dispense, and furnish pharmacological agents, including over-the-counter, legend, and controlled substances; and
(3)
Plan and initiate a therapeutic regimen that includes ordering and prescribing non-pharmacological interventions, including, but not limited to, durable medical equipment, medical devices, nutrition, blood and blood products, and diagnostic and supportive services including, but not limited to, home health care, hospice, and physical and occupational therapy.
(d)
Prescriptive privileges for the certified nurse practitioner shall include all the authority under the APRN license including:
(1)
Prescription of legend medications and prescription of controlled substances from Schedules II, III, IV, and V that are established in regulation; and
(2)
May be certified to prescribe controlled substances from Schedule I.
(e)
Prescriptive privileges for APRNs with the population focus of psychiatric/mental health:
(1)
Shall include prescription of certain psychotropic and certain legend medications, controlled substances from Schedule II classified as stimulants, and controlled substances from Schedule III and IV that are prescribed in regulations;
(2)
Shall not include controlled substances from Schedules I, II, and V and those certain legend medications not included in subsection (e)(1).
(f)
CRNAs may be granted prescriptive privileges in accordance with the provisions of chapter 34.2 of this title.
(g)
Prescriptive privileges for certified clinical nurse specialist shall include:
(1)
Diagnosing, prescribing, and instituting therapy or referrals of patients to healthcare agencies, healthcare providers, and community resources; and
(2)
Planning and initiating a therapeutic regimen that includes ordering and prescribing non-pharmacological interventions, including, but not limited to, durable medical equipment, medical devices, nutrition, blood and blood products, and diagnostic and supportive services including, but not limited to, home health care, hospice, and physical and occupational therapy; and
(3)
Prescription of over-the-counter medications within their population foci.
History of Section.
P.L. 2013, ch. 83, § 2; P.L. 2013, ch. 93, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-34.2 - Nurse Anesthetists › Section 5-34.2-1. - Scope.

§ 5-34.2-1. Scope.
The provisions of this chapter shall govern the licensure requirements and practice standards for nurse anesthetists practicing in the state.
History of Section.
P.L. 1991, ch. 265, § 1; P.L. 1992, ch. 435, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-34.2 - Nurse Anesthetists › Section 5-34.2-2. - Definitions.

§ 5-34.2-2. Definitions.
(a)
“Board” means the board of nurse registration and nurse education established in § 5-34-4.
(b)
“Certified registered nurse anesthetist” (CRNA) means a registered nurse who has successfully met the requirements stated in this chapter.
(c)
“Practice of certified registered nurse anesthesia” means providing certain healthcare services in collaboration with anesthesiologists, licensed physicians, or licensed dentists in accordance with § 5-31.1-1(17) which requires substantial specialized knowledge, judgment, and skill related to the administration of anesthesia, including preoperative and postoperative assessment of patients; administering anesthetics; monitoring patients during anesthesia; management of fluid in intravenous therapy; and management of respiratory care. It also includes, in connection with the immediate perioperative care of a patient, the ability to issue a medication order for drugs or medications to be administered by a licensed, certified, or registered healthcare provider; to order and evaluate laboratory and diagnostic test results and perform point-of-care testing that the CRNA is qualified to perform; and order and evaluate radiographic imaging studies that the CRNA is qualified to order and interpret. For the purposes of this section, the immediate perioperative care of a patient shall be defined as the period commencing on the day prior to surgery and ending upon discharge of the patient from post-anesthesia care. CRNAs shall comply with the requirements set forth in this chapter, including § 5-34.2-5(b) regarding scope of practice, and the requirements set forth in chapter 34 of this title, as applicable. In the case of any conflict between this chapter and chapter 34 of this title with regard to the licensure and practice of CRNAs, this chapter shall control.
History of Section.
P.L. 1991, ch. 265, § 1; P.L. 1992, ch. 435, § 1; P.L. 2005, ch. 410, § 3; P.L. 2013, ch. 83, § 4; P.L. 2013, ch. 93, § 4.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-34.2 - Nurse Anesthetists › Section 5-34.2-3. - Requirements for licensure of the nurse anesthetist.

§ 5-34.2-3. Requirements for licensure of the nurse anesthetist.
Requirements for licensure as a nurse anesthetist shall consist of the following:
(1)
Current licensure as a professional registered nurse in the state; and
(2)
Graduation from an educational program accredited by the Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Education Programs or its predecessors or successors, and that has as its objective preparation of nurses to practice nurse anesthesia; and
(3)
Initial certification by the American Association of Nurse Anesthetists Council on Certification of Nurse Anesthetists and Recertification, as applicable by the American Association of Nurse Anesthetists Council on Recertification of Nurse Anesthetists or their predecessors or successors.
(4)
[Deleted by P.L. 2013, ch. 83, § 4 and P.L. 2013, ch. 93, § 4].
(5)
The requirements stated in subsections (2) and (3) of this section do not apply to a professional registered nurse who practices nursing in accordance with the provisions of the Nurse Practice Act, chapter 34 of this title, and who is enrolled as a bona fide student in an accredited nurse anesthesia program providing nurse anesthesia under the supervision of a certified registered nurse anesthetist or anesthesiologist.
(6)
Beginning July 21, 1992, all nurse anesthetists shall be afforded the same period of time to become licensed. Notwithstanding the provisions of this section, no person practicing as a nurse anesthetist in Rhode Island on July 1, 1991, shall be required to obtain proper certification under this chapter. However, as required by subsection (3) of this section, persons who become certified under this section shall become recertified as applicable.
History of Section.
P.L. 1991, ch. 265, § 1; P.L. 1992, ch. 435, § 1; P.L. 1999, ch. 200, § 1; P.L. 2013, ch. 83, § 4; P.L. 2013, ch. 93, § 4; P.L. 2019, ch. 178, § 1; P.L. 2019, ch. 212, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-34.2 - Nurse Anesthetists › Section 5-34.2-4. - Duties of board.

§ 5-34.2-4. Duties of board.
(a) Applications.
Applicants for licensure shall submit appropriate certification credentials, as described in § 5-34.2-3, plus an application fee (not refundable) made payable to the general treasurer, state of Rhode Island, as set forth in § 23-1-54.
(b) Renewal.
Licensure as a nurse anesthetist shall be renewed during the same period as the professional registered nurses license to practice in Rhode Island. Renewal fee for a nurse anesthetists license shall be as set forth in § 23-1-54.
(c) Revocations, suspension, or refusal to renew licensure.
The board may revoke, suspend, or refuse to renew the licensure of any nurse anesthetist, if the board finds that the person fails to meet the requirements for practice as a nurse anesthetist specified in either this chapter or board regulation.
(d) Announcement of practice.
No person may practice or advertise as a nurse anesthetist or use other words, letters, signs, figures, or devices to indicate that the person is a certified registered nurse anesthetist, CRNA, until the person has first been licensed by the board.
History of Section.
P.L. 1991, ch. 265, § 1; P.L. 1992, ch. 435, § 1; P.L. 2001, ch. 77, art. 14, § 10; P.L. 2007, ch. 73, art. 39, § 8; P.L. 2012, ch. 241, art. 9, § 9.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-34.2 - Nurse Anesthetists › Section 5-34.2-5. - Accountability — Scope of practice.

§ 5-34.2-5. Accountability — Scope of practice.
(a) Accountability.
The nurse anesthetist shall be responsible and accountable to the consumer for his or her practice of nurse anesthesia as defined under this chapter.
(b) Scope of practice.
The governing board of a licensed hospital or, in the case of a clinic or office a licensed anesthetist, physician, or dentist, shall determine the scope of practice of the nurse anesthetists. All responsibilities shall be in writing in the form prescribed by hospital or office policy. Additionally, nurse anesthetists shall practice in accordance with the current American Association of Nurse Anesthetists guidelines for nurse anesthesia practice if the nurse anesthetists guidelines for nurse anesthesia practice neither violate nor contradict hospital, clinic, or physician- or dentist-office bylaws, rules, regulations, and policies, nor this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1991, ch. 265, § 1; P.L. 1992, ch. 435, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-34.2 - Nurse Anesthetists › Section 5-34.2-6. - [Repealed.]

§ 5-34.2-6. [Repealed.]
History of Section.
P.L. 1991, ch. 265, § 1; P.L. 1992, ch. 435, § 1; Repealed by P.L. 2004, ch. 151, § 2, effective June 26, 2004; P.L. 2004, ch. 164, § 2, effective June 26, 2004.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-34.3 - Nurse Licensure Compact › Section 5-34.3-1. - Short title.

§ 5-34.3-1. Short title.
This chapter may be cited as the “Nurse Licensure Compact Act.”
History of Section.
P.L. 2007, ch. 50, § 2; P.L. 2007, ch. 62, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-34.3 - Nurse Licensure Compact › Section 5-34.3-2. - The Nurse Licensure Compact.

§ 5-34.3-2. The Nurse Licensure Compact.
The nurse licensure compact is hereby adopted and entered into with all other jurisdictions that legally join in the compact, which is, in form, substantially similar to this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 2007, ch. 50, § 2; P.L. 2007, ch. 62, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-34.3 - Nurse Licensure Compact › Section 5-34.3-7. - Adverse actions. [Repealed effective January 1, 2024.]

§ 5-34.3-7. Adverse actions. [Repealed effective January 1, 2024.]
In addition to the provisions described in § 5-34.3-5, the following provisions apply:
(1)
The licensing board of a remote state shall promptly report to the administrator of the coordinated licensure information system any remote state actions including the factual and legal basis for such action, if known. The licensing board of a remote state shall also promptly report any significant current investigative information yet to result in a remote state action. The administrator of the coordinated licensure information system shall promptly notify the home state of any such reports.
(2)
The licensing board of a party state shall have the authority to complete any pending investigations for a nurse who changes primary state of residence during the course of such investigations. It shall also have the authority to take appropriate action(s), and shall promptly report the conclusions of such investigations to the administrator of the coordinated licensure information system. The administrator of the coordinated licensure information system shall promptly notify the new home state of any such actions.
(3)
A remote state may take adverse action affecting the multistate licensure privilege to practice within that party state. However, only the home state shall have the power to impose adverse action against the license issued by the home state.
(4)
For purposes of imposing adverse action, the licensing board of the home state shall give the same priority and effect to reported conduct received from a remote state as it would if such conduct had occurred within the home state. In so doing, it shall apply its own state laws to determine appropriate action.
(5)
The home state may take adverse action based on the factual findings of the remote state, so long as each state follows its own procedures for imposing such adverse action.
(6)
Nothing in this compact shall override a party state’s decision that participation in an alternative program may be used in lieu of licensure action and that such participation shall remain non-public if required by the party state’s laws. Party states must require nurses who enter any alternative programs to agree not to practice in any other party state during the term of the alternative program without prior authorization from such other party state.
History of Section.
P.L. 2007, ch. 50, § 2; P.L. 2007, ch. 62, § 2.
§ 5-34.3-7. Adverse actions. [Repealed effective January 1, 2024.]
History of Section.
P.L. 2007, ch. 50, § 2; P.L. 2007, ch. 62, § 2; repealed by P.L. 2023, ch. 338, § 2, effective January 1, 2024; repealed by P.L. 2023, ch. 397, § 2, effective January 1, 2024.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-34.3 - Nurse Licensure Compact › Section 5-34.3-11. - Immunity. [Repealed effective January 1, 2024.]

§ 5-34.3-11. Immunity. [Repealed effective January 1, 2024.]
No party state or the officers or employees or agents of a party state’s nurse licensing board who act in accordance with the provisions of this compact shall be liable on account of any act or omission in good faith while engaged in the performance of their duties under this compact. Good faith in this article shall not include willful misconduct, gross negligence, or recklessness.
History of Section.
P.L. 2007, ch. 50, § 2; P.L. 2007, ch. 62, § 2.
§ 5-34.3-11. Immunity. [Repealed effective January 1, 2024.]
History of Section.
P.L. 2007, ch. 50, § 2; P.L. 2007, ch. 62, § 2; repealed by P.L. 2023, ch. 338, § 2, effective January 1, 2024; repealed by P.L. 2023, ch. 397, § 2, effective January 1, 2024.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-34.3 - Nurse Licensure Compact › Section 5-34.3-13. - Employers.

§ 5-34.3-13. Employers.
This compact is designed to facilitate the regulation of nurses, and does not relieve employers from complying with statutorily imposed obligations. This compact does not supersede existing state labor laws.
History of Section.
P.L. 2007, ch. 50, § 2; P.L. 2007, ch. 62, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-34.3 - Nurse Licensure Compact › Section 5-34.3-14. - Construction and severability. [Effective until January 1, 2024.]

§ 5-34.3-14. Construction and severability. [Effective until January 1, 2024.]
(a)
This compact shall be liberally construed so as to effectuate the purposes thereof. The provisions of this compact shall be severable and if any phrase, clause, sentence or provision of this compact is declared to be contrary to the constitution of any party state or of the United States or the applicability thereof to any government, agency, person or circumstance is held invalid, the validity of the remainder of this compact and the applicability thereof to any government, agency, person or circumstance shall not be affected thereby. If this compact shall be held contrary to the constitution of any state party thereto, the compact shall remain in full force and effect as to the remaining party states and in full force and effect as to the party state affected as to all severable matters.
(b)
In the event party states find a need for settling disputes arising under this compact:
(1)
The party states may submit the issues in dispute to an arbitration panel which will be comprised of an individual appointed by the compact administrator in the home state; an individual appointed by the compact administrator in the remote state(s) involved; and an individual mutually agreed upon by the compact administrators of all the party states involved in the dispute.
(2)
The decision of a majority of the arbitrators shall be final and binding.
History of Section.
P.L. 2007, ch. 50, § 2; P.L. 2007, ch. 62, § 2.
§ 5-34.3-14. Construction and severability. [Effective January 1, 2024; Expires January 1, 2027]
This compact shall be liberally construed so as to effectuate the purposes thereof. The provisions of this compact shall be severable and if any phrase, clause, sentence or provision of this compact is declared to be contrary to the constitution of any party state or of the United States or the applicability thereof to any government, agency, person, or circumstance is held invalid, the validity of the remainder of this compact and the applicability thereof to any government, agency, person, or circumstance shall not be affected thereby. If this compact shall be held contrary to the constitution of any party state thereto, the compact shall remain in full force and effect as to the remaining party states and in full force and effect as to the party state affected as to all severable matters.
History of Section.
P.L. 2007, ch. 50, § 2; P.L. 2007, ch. 62, § 2; P.L. 2023, ch. 338, § 1, effective January 1, 2024; P.L. 2023, ch. 397, § 1, effective January 1, 2024.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-35.1 - Optometrists › Section 5-35.1-2. - Qualifications to practice optometry.

§ 5-35.1-2. Qualifications to practice optometry.
Every applicant for licensure shall present satisfactory evidence in the form of affidavits properly sworn to that he or she:
(1)
Is of good moral character; and
(2)
Has graduated from a school or college of optometry that maintains a course in optometry of not less than four (4) years and is approved by the Accreditation Council on Optometric Education (ACOE) or other accrediting body as approved by the board; and
(3)
Has successfully passed a national examination or other examinations approved by the department and the board; and
(4)
Any other qualifications as may be established in rules and regulations promulgated by the department.
History of Section.
P.L. 2008, ch. 305, § 2; P.L. 2008, ch. 433, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-35.1 - Optometrists › Section 5-35.1-3. - Application for examination and license.

§ 5-35.1-3. Application for examination and license.
Every person desiring to be licensed to practice optometry as provided in this chapter shall file with the department, in the form prescribed by the department, an application presenting the facts that entitle the applicant to a license to practice optometry under this chapter. No one shall be permitted to practice optometry in this state without a valid license.
History of Section.
P.L. 2008, ch. 305, § 2; P.L. 2008, ch. 433, § 2; P.L. 2018, ch. 176, § 9; P.L. 2018, ch. 289, § 9.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-35.1 - Optometrists › Section 5-35.1-4. - Fee for license.

§ 5-35.1-4. Fee for license.
Every applicant shall pay to the department a fee as set forth in § 23-1-54 which shall accompany his or her application for a license.
History of Section.
P.L. 2008, ch. 305, § 2; P.L. 2008, ch. 433, § 2; P.L. 2012, ch. 241, art. 9, § 10.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-35.1 - Optometrists › Section 5-35.1-5. - Registration of optometrists from other states.

§ 5-35.1-5. Registration of optometrists from other states.
Any person who presents evidence to the department that he or she is entitled to practice optometry in another state where requirements for registration are, in the opinion of the department, equivalent to those of this state, may be licensed in this state upon payment to the department of a fee.
History of Section.
P.L. 2008, ch. 305, § 2; P.L. 2008, ch. 433, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-35.1 - Optometrists › Section 5-35.1-6. - Issuance, registration, and display of certificate of license to practice optometry.

§ 5-35.1-6. Issuance, registration, and display of certificate of license to practice optometry.
Every applicant who complies with the provisions of this chapter shall receive from the director under his or her seal a certificate of license entitling him or her to practice optometry in this state. Every person to whom a certificate of license is issued by the department shall keep that certificate displayed in a conspicuous place in the office or place of business where that person practices optometry and, whenever required, shall exhibit the certificate to any authorized representative of the department.
History of Section.
P.L. 2008, ch. 305, § 2; P.L. 2008, ch. 433, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-35.1 - Optometrists › Section 5-35.1-7. - Renewal of license to practice optometry.

§ 5-35.1-7. Renewal of license to practice optometry.
Every licensed optometrist who desires to continue the practice of optometry shall attest to the completion of a prescribed course of continuing optometric education. He or she shall annually pay to the department a renewal fee. An additional fee shall be charged to the licensee who fails to renew by the license expiration date. Retirement from practice in this state for a period not exceeding five (5) years shall not deprive the holder of a certificate of license of the right to renew a certificate upon the payment of all annual renewal fees remaining unpaid, and together with an added fee. All fees required by this section shall be as set forth in § 23-1-54.
History of Section.
P.L. 2008, ch. 305, § 2; P.L. 2008, ch. 433, § 2; P.L. 2012, ch. 241, art. 9, § 10.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-35.1 - Optometrists › Section 5-35.1-8. - Use of title of doctor.

§ 5-35.1-8. Use of title of doctor.
Any person licensed to practice optometry under this chapter may prefix or append to his or her name the title of doctor or any abbreviation of the word doctor, provided that person holds a degree granted by a school or college of optometry authorized to grant this degree.
History of Section.
P.L. 2008, ch. 305, § 2; P.L. 2008, ch. 433, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-35.1 - Optometrists › Section 5-35.1-9. - Acts constituting unlawful practice of optometry.

§ 5-35.1-9. Acts constituting unlawful practice of optometry.
No optometrist licensed by and practicing in this state may:
(1)
Use or occupy space for that practice under any oral or written lease, contract, arrangement, or understanding with anyone (other than with another optometrist licensed by, and practicing in this state) by which the rent paid by that licensed optometrist for that use or occupancy or any element of the expense of practicing his or her profession varies according to his or her gross receipts, net profit, taxable income, numeral volume of the patients examined by that licensed optometrist, or any combination;
(2)
Use or occupy space for that practice in any building where more than fifty percent (50%) of the remaining space is used or occupied by tenants or a tenant of that building or the owner of that building and those tenants, tenant, or owner is engaged in the business of selling merchandise to the general public, if those tenants, tenant, or owner:
(i)
Uses, or occupies that space under any oral or written lease, contract, arrangement, or understanding with anyone by which the rent paid by those tenants or tenant for that use or occupancy or any element in the cost of doing business varies according to the gross receipts, net profit, taxable income, numerical volume of sales or customers of those tenants or tenant or any combination;
(3)
Advertise by written or spoken words of a character tending to deceive or mislead the public; or
(4)
Practice his or her profession under any oral or written contract, arrangement, or understanding where anyone, not licensed to practice optometry practicing in this state shares, directly or indirectly, in any fees received by that licensed optometrist.
History of Section.
P.L. 2008, ch. 305, § 2; P.L. 2008, ch. 433, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-35.1 - Optometrists › Section 5-35.1-10. - Unlawful sale of spectacles.

§ 5-35.1-10. Unlawful sale of spectacles.
It is unlawful for any person, firm, or corporation to sell, as merchandise, in any store or established place of business in the state, any eyeglasses, spectacles, or lenses for the correction of vision, unless a licensed optometrist, physician, or optician under the laws of this state is in charge and in personal attendance at the booth, counter, or place where those articles are sold in a store or established place of business. The provisions of this section shall not be construed to apply to the sale of simple reading magnifying glasses, toy glasses, goggles consisting of plano white or plano colored lenses or ordinary colored glasses, or to optometrists, physicians, or opticians who sell spectacles, eyeglasses, or lenses by prescription. A seller of simple reading magnifying glasses shall have the following notice permanently affixed in plain view to the top of any point of sale display: “These magnifiers are not intended to be a substitute for corrective lenses; only a professional eye examination can determine your eye health status and vision needs.” This notice shall also be prominently displayed in all newspaper, magazine, and other advertisements for simple reading magnifying glasses. As used in this section, “simple reading magnifying glasses” do not include lenses of bifocal design or single-vision lenses of over plus 3.25 diopters or equivalent magnification.
History of Section.
P.L. 2008, ch. 305, § 2; P.L. 2008, ch. 433, § 2; P.L. 2014, ch. 197, § 1; P.L. 2014, ch. 219, § 1.