reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-30 - Chiropractic Physicians › Section 5-30-15. - Disposition of fees — Compensation of board members.

§ 5-30-15. Disposition of fees — Compensation of board members.
The administrator of the division of professional regulation shall collect all fees for the division under the provisions of this chapter, and shall remit those fees to the general treasurer monthly. Under no circumstances shall any fee be returned. Members of the board of chiropractic examiners shall not be compensated for actual attendance at meetings of the board.
History of Section.
G.L. 1923, ch. 159, § 21; P.L. 1927, ch. 1067, § 1; P.L. 1928, ch. 1186, § 1; P.L. 1931, ch. 1781, § 7; G.L. 1938, ch. 275, § 21; impl. am. P.L. 1939, ch. 660, §§ 65, 180; impl. am. P.L. 1949, ch. 2228, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 5-30-15; P.L. 1983, ch. 253, § 9; P.L. 2005, ch. 117, art. 21, § 9.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-30 - Chiropractic Physicians › Section 5-30-16. - Fee splitting.

§ 5-30-16. Fee splitting.
No chiropractic physician may directly or indirectly receive payment, reimbursement, compensation, or fee for a referral to any clinical laboratory. A violation of the provisions of this section constitutes a misdemeanor and upon conviction may be punished by imprisonment for not longer than one year or a fine of not more than five hundred dollars ($500), or by both fine and imprisonment.
History of Section.
P.L. 1975, ch. 114, § 4.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-30 - Chiropractic Physicians › Section 5-30-17. - Applicability of chapter 37 of this title to chiropractic medicine.

§ 5-30-17. Applicability of chapter 37 of this title to chiropractic medicine.
Except as expressly provided in this chapter, all provisions of chapter 37 of this title apply to the practice of chiropractic medicine, and to persons practicing chiropractic medicine within the state.
History of Section.
G.L. 1923, ch. 159, § 26; P.L. 1927, ch. 1067, § 1; G.L. 1938, ch. 275, § 26; G.L. 1956, § 5-30-17.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-30 - Chiropractic Physicians › Section 5-30-18. - Receipts.

§ 5-30-18. Receipts.
The proceeds of any fees collected pursuant to the provisions of this chapter shall be deposited as general revenues.
History of Section.
P.L. 1989, ch. 126, art. 26, § 13; P.L. 1995, ch. 370, art. 40, § 13.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-31.1 - Dentists and Dental Hygienists › Section 5-31.1-2. - Board of examiners in dentistry — Members — Compensation — Funds.

§ 5-31.1-2. Board of examiners in dentistry — Members — Compensation — Funds.
(a)
There is created within the department of health the Rhode Island board of examiners in dentistry composed of the following members:
(1)
Eight (8) licensed dentists, no more than three (3) shall be dental specialists as recognized by the American Dental Association (ADA) and at least one of the three (3) dental specialists shall be an oral and maxillofacial surgeon;
(2)
Four (4) public members not associated with the dental field;
(3)
Two (2) licensed dental hygienists;
(4)
The chief of the office of dental public health, who shall serve as an ex-officio member of the board; and
(5)
One certified dental assistant.
(b)
The governor shall appoint the members of the board, except that prior to appointing the eight (8) dentist members, the governor may submit a list of all candidates to the appropriate dental societies for comments as to their qualifications. No member shall be appointed for more than two (2) consecutive full terms. A member appointed for less than a full term (originally or to fill a vacancy) may serve two (2) full terms in addition to that part of a full term, and a former member is again eligible for appointment after a lapse of one or more years. All subsequent appointments to the board shall be for a term of three (3) years. Any member of the board may be removed by the governor for neglect of duty, misconduct, malfeasance, or misfeasance in office after being given a written statement of the charges against him or her and sufficient opportunity to be heard on the charges. The director of the department of health shall appoint from the members a chairperson who shall be a dentist duly licensed under the laws of the state of Rhode Island, and a vice-chairperson who shall in the absence of the chairperson exercise all powers of the chairperson, and secretary, who serve for one year or until their successors are appointed and qualified. The board shall meet at least once a month or more often upon the call of the chairperson, director of health, or dental administrator, at any times and places that the chairperson designates.
(c)
Members of the board shall not be paid for the discharge of official duties.
(d)
The director has the authority to suspend or revoke the license of any dentist or dental hygienist who does not pay the annual fee. Monies shall be received by the department and deposited in the general fund as general revenues.
History of Section.
P.L. 1987, ch. 358, § 2; P.L. 1989, ch. 534, § 1; P.L. 1995, ch. 370, art. 40, § 14; P.L. 2001, ch. 260, § 1; P.L. 2001, ch. 273, § 1; P.L. 2005, ch. 117, art. 21, § 10; P.L. 2013, ch. 172, § 1; P.L. 2013, ch. 201, § 1; P.L. 2014, ch. 95, § 1; P.L. 2014, ch. 163, § 1; P.L. 2021, ch. 69, § 1, effective June 23, 2021; P.L. 2021, ch. 70, § 1, effective June 23, 2021.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-31.1 - Dentists and Dental Hygienists › Section 5-31.1-3. - Examining committees.

§ 5-31.1-3. Examining committees.
(a)
The chairperson shall appoint two (2) licensed dentist members of the board and one public member to serve as an examining committee for applicants applying for licensure as dentists. The examining committee for dentists shall recommend to the full board, which shall recommend to the director, applicants for licensure to practice dentistry who meet all the requirements for licensure prescribed in this chapter, and other applicable sections and regulations adopted under this chapter.
(b)
The chairperson shall also appoint three (3) members of the board, one of whom is a licensed dentist, one of whom is a public member, and one of whom is a licensed dental hygienist, to serve as an examining committee for applicants applying for licensure as dental hygienists. The examining committee for dental hygienists shall recommend to the full board, which shall recommend to the director, applicants for licensure to practice dental hygiene who meet the requirements for licensure prescribed in this chapter, other applicable sections, and the regulations adopted under this chapter.
(c)
The members of the examining committees shall serve for a term of one year and may be reappointed.
(d)
The chairperson shall also appoint three (3) members of the board, one of whom is a licensed dentist, one of whom is a public member, and one of whom is a certified dental assistant, to serve as an examining committee for applicants applying for licensure as Dental Anesthesia Assistants National Certification Examination (DAANCE)-certified maxillofacial surgery assistants. The examining committee for DAANCE-certified maxillofacial surgery assistants shall recommend to the full board, which shall recommend to the director, applicants for licensure to practice as DAANCE-certified maxillofacial surgery assistants who meet the requirements for licensure prescribed in this chapter, other applicable sections, and the regulations adopted under this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1987, ch. 358, § 2; P.L. 2014, ch. 95, § 1; P.L. 2014, ch. 163, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-31.1 - Dentists and Dental Hygienists › Section 5-31.1-4. - Powers and duties of the board of examiners in dentistry.

§ 5-31.1-4. Powers and duties of the board of examiners in dentistry.
The board of examiners in dentistry has the following duties and powers:
(1)
To adopt, amend, and rescind any rules and regulations, with the approval of the director of the department of health, that it deems necessary to carry out the provisions of this chapter;
(2)
To investigate all complaints and charges of unprofessional conduct against any licensed dentist, dental hygienist, DAANCE-certified maxillofacial surgery assistant, or limited registrant and to hold hearings to determine whether those charges are substantiated or unsubstantiated;
(3)
To direct the director of the department of health to license qualified applicants for licensure;
(4)
To appoint one or more dentists or dental hygienists or certified dental assistant to act for the members of the board in investigating the conduct or competence of any licensed dentist, dental hygienist, DAANCE-certified maxillofacial surgery assistant, or limited registrant;
(5)
To direct the director to revoke, suspend, or impose other disciplinary action as to persons licensed or registered under this chapter;
(6)(i)
To issue subpoenas and administer oaths in connection with any investigations, hearing, or disciplinary proceedings held under the authority of this chapter;
(ii)
All subpoenas issued pursuant to this section shall only be issued by a vote of either the investigative committee or the full board of examiners in dentistry:
(A)
All subpoenas issued by the board or the investigative committee shall be served by a disinterested party or by a constable authorized by the courts to serve process;
(B)
Subpoenas issued by either the investigative committee or the full board of examiners in dentistry shall have a reasonable return date that will allow the recipient an opportunity to review the subpoena, consult with counsel, and prepare a response to the subpoena; and
(C)
All subpoenas shall be in compliance with the Rhode Island healthcare confidentiality act.
(D)
In the absence of a properly executed patient consent, subpoena requests shall only be made by request of the board to a court of competent jurisdiction that may issue a court order compelling production of confidential healthcare information of a patient;
(7)
To take or cause depositions to be taken as needed in any investigation, hearing, or proceeding;
(8)
To summon and examine witnesses during any investigation, hearing, or proceeding conducted by the board; and
(9)
To adopt and publish, with the prior approval of the director, rules of procedure and other regulations in accordance with the administrative procedures act, chapter 35 of title 42.
History of Section.
P.L. 1987, ch. 358, § 2; P.L. 1992, ch. 483, § 1; P.L. 2014, ch. 95, § 1; P.L. 2014, ch. 163, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-31.1 - Dentists and Dental Hygienists › Section 5-31.1-5. - Power of the director.

§ 5-31.1-5. Power of the director.
The director has the following duties and powers:
(1)
With the prior approval of the governor, the director shall appoint a dental administrator who administers and supervises the investigatory and other activities of the board. The dental administrator shall be selected from a list of not less than three (3) names compiled and submitted to the governor by a search committee. The search committee shall consist of four (4) individuals, one being the director or his or her designee, one public member appointed by the board, one appointed by the governor, and one dental member appointed by the board. To be included on the list of potential appointees, an individual must have unanimous approval of the members of the search committee. The dental administrator shall report to the director of the department of health and to the board who shall establish the further duties of the dental administrator;
(2)
With the prior approval of the governor, to appoint legal counsel and any assistant legal counsel that is required;
(3)
In consultation with the board, to make contracts and arrangements for the performance of administrative and similar services required, or appropriate, or necessary to effectuate the provisions of this chapter;
(4)
In consultation with the board, to hire any professional and clerical staff that is necessary to carry out the functions of the board;
(5)
To issue, pursuant to any rules and regulations promulgated by the board and approved by the director, all licenses and registrations required by this chapter to qualified applicants;
(6)
To deny licenses and registrations, to revoke, suspend, or discipline licensees in accordance with the provisions of this chapter; and
(7)
To exercise all other powers specifically conferred upon him or her by virtue of the provisions of this chapter or other applicable sections.
History of Section.
P.L. 1987, ch. 358, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-31.1 - Dentists and Dental Hygienists › Section 5-31.1-6.1. - Dental hygienists and dental assistants.

§ 5-31.1-6.1. Dental hygienists and dental assistants.
Dentists licensed pursuant to § 5-31.1-6 may supervise and delegate to any dental hygienist licensed pursuant to § 5-31.1-6, working under the dentist’s general supervision and who is employed on a regular basis by such dentists, any procedures that he or she may deem advisable; including initial oral-health-screening assessments and other procedures specified under section 13 (or any comparable or successor section) of the rules and regulations pertaining to dentists and dental hygienists promulgated from time to time by the department of health, and any such dental hygienists may engage in the practice of dental hygiene under the responsibility of the supervising dentists outside of the dentists’ office in order to render to residents of nursing facilities licensed pursuant to chapter 17 of title 23, whether or not such residents are patients of record of the supervising dentist, without the on-site direct supervision of a dentist licensed pursuant to § 5-31.1-6, those dental services, procedures, and duties that he or she has been educated to perform and that are authorized by the board of examiners in dentistry. Dental hygienists working under general supervision in nursing facilities shall provide documentation of initial oral health screening assessments to the supervising dentist and to the licensed nursing facility for appropriate follow-up assessment and treatment, as needed.
History of Section.
P.L. 2004, ch. 292, § 1; P.L. 2004, ch. 475, § 1; P.L. 2006, ch. 325, § 1; P.L. 2006, ch. 448, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-31.1 - Dentists and Dental Hygienists › Section 5-31.1-7. - Recertification — Continuing dental education.

§ 5-31.1-7. Recertification — Continuing dental education.
(a)
Effective beginning in the calendar year 2006, every dentist, dental hygienist, or DAANCE-certified maxillofacial surgery assistant licensed to practice within this state, on or before the first day of May in each even numbered year, shall apply to the Rhode Island board of examiners in dentistry for a biennial license with the board. The applicant shall include satisfactory evidence to the board of examiners in dentistry that, in the preceding two years, the practitioner has completed a prescribed course of continuing dental or dental hygiene education established by the appropriate dental or dental hygiene association and approved by rule or regulation of the director or by the board of examiners in dentistry. If the applicant submits satisfactory evidence to the board that he or she has completed a prescribed course of continuing dental education, dental hygiene, or DAANCE-certified maxillofacial surgery assisting education and has complied with the provisions of § 5-31.1-6, the board shall issue the applicant a license registration for a two-year (2) period commencing on July 1. The board may extend for only one six-month (6) period those educational requirements if the board is satisfied that the applicant has suffered hardship that prevented meeting the educational requirement. No license to practice dentistry or dental hygiene in this state shall be refused, nor any license suspended or revoked, except as:
(1)
Provided for in this chapter; and
(2)
For failure to provide satisfactory evidence of continuing dental, dental hygiene, or DAANCE-certified maxillofacial surgery assisting education as provided for in this section.
(b)
Licensees shall apply for recertification by submitting evidence of continuing dental, dental hygiene, or DAANCE-certified maxillofacial surgery assisting education on a biennial basis. Application for biennial registration shall continue as provided in this section and § 5-31.1-21.
History of Section.
P.L. 1987, ch. 358, § 2; P.L. 1992, ch. 483, § 1; P.L. 2005, ch. 219, § 1; P.L. 2005, ch. 232, § 1; P.L. 2014, ch. 95, § 1; P.L. 2014, ch. 163, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-31.1 - Dentists and Dental Hygienists › Section 5-31.1-8. - Refusal of licensure.

§ 5-31.1-8. Refusal of licensure.
(a)
The director, upon recommendation from the board, after notice and hearing in accordance with the procedures prescribed in this chapter, shall refuse to grant the original license provided for in this chapter to any dentist, dental hygienist, DAANCE-certified maxillofacial surgery assistant, and/or applicant who is not of good moral character; who does not meet the requirements for licensure prescribed in this chapter and regulations established by the board or director; who has violated any law affecting the ability of any dentist, dental hygienist, DAANCE-certified maxillofacial surgery assistant, and/or applicant to practice dentistry, dental hygiene, or DAANCE-certified maxillofacial surgery assisting; or who has been found guilty in another state of conduct that if committed in Rhode Island, would constitute unprofessional conduct as defined in § 5-31.1-10 and regulations adopted under this chapter.
(b)
The director shall serve a copy of his or her decision or ruling upon any person whose original certificate has been refused.
History of Section.
P.L. 1987, ch. 358, § 2; P.L. 2014, ch. 95, § 1; P.L. 2014, ch. 163, § 1; P.L. 2021, ch. 400, § 8, effective July 13, 2021; P.L. 2021, ch. 401, § 8, effective July 13, 2021.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-31.1 - Dentists and Dental Hygienists › Section 5-31.1-9. - Immunity from suit.

§ 5-31.1-9. Immunity from suit.
(a)
The director of the department of health, dental administrator, board members, their agents or their employees are immune from suit in any action, civil or criminal, based upon any disciplinary proceeding or other official act performed in good faith in the course of their duties under this chapter. There is no civil liability on the part of, or cause of action of any nature against, the board, director, dental administrator, their agents, or their employees or against any organization or its members, peer-review board or its members, or other witnesses and parties to board proceedings for any statements made by them in any reports, communications, or testimony concerning an investigation of the conduct or competence of a licensed dentist, dental hygienist, or limited registrant.
(b)
No licensed healthcare provider, dentist, dental hygienist, DAANCE-certified maxillofacial surgery assistant, or limited registrant shall discharge, threaten, or discriminate against an employee, staff member, or any other person for making a report to, giving testimony to, or providing any other communication to the board of examiners in dentistry, a peer-review organization, or any appropriate supervisory personnel concerning the unprofessional conduct or incompetence or negligence of a dentist, dental hygienist, DAANCE-certified maxillofacial surgery assistant, or limited registrant; provided, that the report, testimony, or other communication was made in good faith.
History of Section.
P.L. 1987, ch. 358, § 2; P.L. 2014, ch. 95, § 1; P.L. 2014, ch. 163, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-31.1 - Dentists and Dental Hygienists › Section 5-31.1-12. - Specification of charges.

§ 5-31.1-12. Specification of charges.
When the board determines, based on the report of the investigating committee, that action is required, or the accused requests a hearing on allegations of unprofessional conduct, a specification of charges of unprofessional conduct against the licensee or limited-registration holder shall be prepared by the investigating committee and a copy served upon the accused, together with notice of the hearing, as provided in § 5-31.1-13. A hearing on the charges will then be scheduled for a hearing before the hearing committee of the board.
History of Section.
P.L. 1987, ch. 358, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-31.1 - Dentists and Dental Hygienists › Section 5-31.1-13. - Time and notice of hearing.

§ 5-31.1-13. Time and notice of hearing.
The time of the hearing shall be fixed by the hearing committee of the board as soon as is practical. The hearing committee of the board shall issue a notice of a hearing of the charges, which notice shall specify the time and place of the hearing and shall notify the accused that he or she may file with the hearing committee of the board a written response within twenty (20) days of the date of service. The notice shall also notify the accused that a stenographic record of the proceedings will be kept; that he or she will have the opportunity to appear personally and to have counsel present, with the right to produce witnesses and evidence in his or her own behalf; to cross-examine witnesses; to examine documentary evidence that may be produced against him or her; and to have subpoenas issued by the hearing committee of the board.
History of Section.
P.L. 1987, ch. 358, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-31.1 - Dentists and Dental Hygienists › Section 5-31.1-14. - Subpoenas — Contempt.

§ 5-31.1-14. Subpoenas — Contempt.
Subpoenas may be issued by the board or the board’s constituted committees to compel the production of documents or other written records or the attendance and testimony of witnesses at any investigation or hearing. The board shall also issue subpoenas at the request and on behalf of the accused. In the event that any person refuses to obey a subpoena or answer any proper question put to him or her during the hearing or proceeding, the superior court has jurisdiction, upon application by the board, to issue to that person an order requiring him or her to appear before the board or its hearing committee; to produce evidence there if ordered; or there to give testimony concerning the matter under investigation. Any failure to obey that order of the court may be punished by the court as civil contempt.
History of Section.
P.L. 1987, ch. 358, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-31.1 - Dentists and Dental Hygienists › Section 5-31.1-15. - Report of hearing.

§ 5-31.1-15. Report of hearing.
After holding a hearing, the hearing committee of the board shall make a written report of its findings of fact, conclusions of law, and disciplinary order, if any.
History of Section.
P.L. 1987, ch. 358, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-31.1 - Dentists and Dental Hygienists › Section 5-31.1-16. - Decision of the board.

§ 5-31.1-16. Decision of the board.
If a majority of the members of the board, sitting as the hearing committee, vote in favor of finding the accused guilty of unprofessional conduct as specified in the charges, the board shall prepare written findings of fact and law in support of its conclusion. The board shall immediately transmit its findings, together with an order as to the sanction to be imposed upon the accused, to the director who, as soon as practicable, shall order appropriate action be taken in accordance with the order of the board. If the accused is found not guilty, the board shall immediately issue an order dismissing the charges.
History of Section.
P.L. 1987, ch. 358, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-31.1 - Dentists and Dental Hygienists › Section 5-31.1-17. - Sanctions.

§ 5-31.1-17. Sanctions.
If the accused is found guilty of unprofessional conduct as defined in § 5-31.1-10, the director, at the direction of the board, shall impose one or more of the following conditions:
(1)
Administer a reprimand;
(2)
Suspend, limit, or restrict his or her license or limited registration to practice dentistry or license to practice dental hygiene or license to practice DAANCE-certified maxillofacial surgery assisting;
(3)
Require him or her to serve a period of probation subject to certain conditions and requirements including, where appropriate, sanctions or restitution;
(4)
Revoke, indefinitely, his or her license or limited registration to practice dentistry or license to practice dental hygiene or license to practice DAANCE-certified maxillofacial surgery assisting;
(5)
Require him or her to submit to the care, counseling, or treatment of a physician or program acceptable to the board;
(6)
Require him or her to participate in a program of continuing dental, dental hygiene, or DAANCE-certified maxillofacial surgery assisting education in the area or areas in which he or she has been judged deficient;
(7)
Require him or her to practice under the direction of a dentist in a public institution, public or private healthcare program, or private practice for a period of time specified by the board;
(8)
Assess against the dentist, dental hygienist, or DAANCE-certified maxillofacial surgery assistant the administrative costs of the proceedings instituted against the dentist, dental hygienist, or DAANCE-certified maxillofacial surgery assisting under this chapter; provided, that the assessment does not exceed ten thousand dollars ($10,000); or
(9)
Any other condition, conditions, or restrictions deemed appropriate under the circumstances.
History of Section.
P.L. 1987, ch. 358, § 2; P.L. 2014, ch. 95, § 1; P.L. 2014, ch. 163, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-31.1 - Dentists and Dental Hygienists › Section 5-31.1-18. - Appeal from the decision of the director of the department of health.

§ 5-31.1-18. Appeal from the decision of the director of the department of health.
(a)
Any person whose license or limited registration to practice dentistry or license to practice dental hygiene or license to practice DAANCE-certified maxillofacial surgery assisting has been revoked or suspended by the board and/or director or is aggrieved by the decision of the board and/or director shall have the right of judicial review of the board’s and director’s decision. That review is initiated by serving on the director a notice of appeal and filing this notice of appeal with a complaint in accordance with the Rules of Civil Procedure in the superior court within thirty (30) days after the decision of the director.
(b)
The director shall, within twenty (20) days after the service of the notice of appeal, transmit to the clerk of the superior court to which the appeal is taken a transcript of the record of the board, certified under the seal of the board, together with a certified copy of the board’s written findings, all of which is admissible as evidence.
(c)
The findings of the board and/or director are final and conclusive, subject to review in the superior court pursuant to the administrative procedures act, chapter 35 of title 42. Any appeal taken to the superior court has precedence on the calendar, is considered an emergency matter and, when practicable, shall be heard in any event not later than thirty (30) days from the date of appeal. There is no stay pending this appeal of any sanction imposed by the director unless it is determined that the matter cannot be placed on the court’s docket within the specified time. Except as provided in this chapter, appeals follow the procedures set forth in the administrative procedures act, chapter 35 of title 42.
History of Section.
P.L. 1987, ch. 358, § 2; P.L. 2014, ch. 95, § 1; P.L. 2014, ch. 163, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-31.1 - Dentists and Dental Hygienists › Section 5-31.1-19. - Grounds for discipline without hearing.

§ 5-31.1-19. Grounds for discipline without hearing.
The director may, temporarily, suspend the license of a dentist, dental hygienist, DAANCE-certified maxillofacial surgery assistant, or limited registrant without a hearing if the director finds that evidence in his or her possession indicates that a dentist, dental hygienist, DAANCE-certified maxillofacial surgery assistant, or limited registrant continuing in practice would constitute an immediate danger to the public. In the event that the director temporarily suspends the license of a dentist, dental hygienist, DAANCE-certified maxillofacial surgery assistant, or limited registrant 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. 1987, ch. 358, § 2; P.L. 2014, ch. 95, § 1; P.L. 2014, ch. 163, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-31.1 - Dentists and Dental Hygienists › Section 5-31.1-21. - Biennial registration.

§ 5-31.1-21. Biennial registration.
(a)
Effective beginning in the calendar year 2006, on or before the first day of May in each even-numbered year, the board shall mail an application for biennial registration to every person to whom a license to practice dentistry, dental hygiene, or DAANCE-certified maxillofacial surgery assisting in this state has been granted by the constituted licensing authority in the state. Every licensed person who intends to engage in the practice of his or her profession during the ensuing two (2) years shall register his or her license by filing with the board that application, executed together with any registration form and fee that is established by regulation by the director, on or before the first day of June in each even-numbered year. Upon receipt of that application and fee, the board shall issue a registration certificate, effective July 1 and expiring two (2) years following June 30, and that registration certificate shall render its holder a registered practitioner of dentistry or dental hygiene for that registration period.
(b)
The registration certificate of all dentists, dental hygienists, or DAANCE-certified maxillofacial surgery assistants whose renewals, accompanied by the prescribed fee, are not filed on or before the first day of July automatically expire. The board may, in its discretion and upon the payment by the dentist, dental hygienist, or DAANCE-certified maxillofacial surgery assistant of the current registration fee, plus an additional fee as set forth in § 23-1-54, reinstate any certificate expired under the provisions of this section. All unexpended monies in the account of the board of dentistry are transferred to the new board of dentistry as created by this chapter as of June 2, 1988.
(c)
Dentists, dental hygienists, and DAANCE-certified maxillofacial surgery assistants not intending to practice in this state may request, on a biennial basis, to be placed on inactive status. Those requests must be made, in writing, to the dental administrator and must be accompanied by fees as set forth in § 23-1-54. Persons on inactive status may be reinstated by paying the current, annual-registration fee and must meet any requirements established by this chapter and as are further prescribed by the rules and regulations.
History of Section.
P.L. 1987, ch. 358, § 2; P.L. 1988, ch. 169, § 1; P.L. 1993, ch. 310, § 1; P.L. 2001, ch. 77, art. 14, § 6; P.L. 2005, ch. 219, § 1; P.L. 2005, ch. 232, § 1; P.L. 2007, ch. 73, art. 39, § 5; P.L. 2012, ch. 241, art. 9, § 5; P.L. 2014, ch. 95, § 1; P.L. 2014, ch. 163, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-31.1 - Dentists and Dental Hygienists › Section 5-31.1-22. - Limited registrations.

§ 5-31.1-22. Limited registrations.
An applicant for limited registration under this chapter who furnishes the board with satisfactory proof that the applicant is eighteen (18) years of age or older and of good moral character, that the applicant has graduated from a dental school accredited by the American Dental Association Commission on Dental Accreditation or its designated agency and approved by the board, and that the applicant has been appointed an intern, resident, fellow, or dental officer in a hospital or other institution maintained by the state, or by a city or town, or in a hospital or clinic that is incorporated under the laws of this state or in a clinic that is affiliated with a hospital licensed by the department of health, or in an outpatient clinic operated by the state, may, upon the payment as set forth in § 23-1-54, be registered by the board as a hospital dental officer for any time that the board prescribes; but that limited registration entitles the applicant to practice dentistry in the hospital or other institution designated on his or her certificate of limited registration, or outside that hospital or other institution for the treatment, under the supervision of one of its dental officers who is a licensed dentist, in the state of persons accepted by it as patients, or in any hospital, institution, clinic, or program affiliated for training purposes with the hospital, institution, or clinic designated on this certificate, which affiliation is approved by the board, and in any case under regulations established by that hospital, institution, or clinic. Each hospital, institution, or clinic shall annually submit to the board a list of training programs that comply with the terms of this section. Limited registration under this section may be revoked at any time by the board. The board and/or the director may promulgate any rules and regulations that it deems necessary to carry out the provisions of this section.
History of Section.
P.L. 1987, ch. 358, § 2; P.L. 2001, ch. 77, art. 14, § 6; P.L. 2007, ch. 73, art. 39, § 5; P.L. 2012, ch. 241, art. 9, § 5.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-31.1 - Dentists and Dental Hygienists › Section 5-31.1-23. - Limited registration — Academic faculty — Fees.

§ 5-31.1-23. Limited registration — Academic faculty — Fees.
(a)
Notwithstanding any other provisions of this chapter, a dentist of noteworthy and recognized professional attainment, who is a clearly outstanding dentist and who has been offered by the dean of a medical school, dental school, or school of dental hygiene in this state a full-time academic appointment, is eligible for a limited registration while serving on the academic staff of the medical school, dental school, or school of dental hygiene. Upon recommendation of the dean of an accredited school of medicine, dentistry, or school of dental hygiene in this state, the board in its discretion, after being satisfied that the applicant is a graduate of a foreign dental school and a person of professional rank whose knowledge and special training will benefit that medical school, dental school, or school of dental hygiene may issue to that dentist a limited registration to engage in the practice of dentistry to the extent that the practice is incidental to a necessary part of his or her academic appointment and then only in the hospital or hospitals and outpatient clinics connected with the medical school, dental school, or school of dental hygiene.
(b)
Except to the extent authorized by this section, the registrant shall not engage in the practice of dentistry or receive compensation for it, unless he or she is issued a license to practice dentistry in accordance with the provisions of this chapter. The registration is valid for a period of not more than one year expiring on the 30th day of June following its initial effective date but may be renewed annually. The registration shall automatically expire when the holder’s relationship with the medical school, dental school, or school of dental hygiene is terminated.
(c)
The application fee for the registration authorized and for initial annual renewal under this section is as set forth in § 23-1-54. Subsequently, fees are as promulgated by the director.
History of Section.
P.L. 1987, ch. 358, § 2; P.L. 2001, ch. 77, art. 14, § 6; P.L. 2007, ch. 73, art. 39, § 5; P.L. 2012, ch. 241, art. 9, § 5.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-31.1 - Dentists and Dental Hygienists › Section 5-31.1-24. - Violations — Penalties.

§ 5-31.1-24. Violations — Penalties.
Unless another penalty is provided by the laws of this state, any person who violates any provision of this chapter or any rule or regulation adopted under this chapter, shall upon conviction, be punished by a fine of not more than one thousand dollars ($1,000) or by imprisonment for not more than one year, or both.
History of Section.
P.L. 1987, ch. 358, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-31.1 - Dentists and Dental Hygienists › Section 5-31.1-25. - Injunction of violations.

§ 5-31.1-25. Injunction of violations.
When it appears to the director and/or board that any person is violating any of the provisions of this chapter, the director and/or board may cause to be instituted an action to enjoin that violation in a court of competent jurisdiction and the court may restrain, and/or 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. 1987, ch. 358, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-31.1 - Dentists and Dental Hygienists › Section 5-31.1-26. - Severability.

§ 5-31.1-26. Severability.
If any provision of this chapter or 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 this chapter, rule, or regulation, and the application of that provision to other persons or circumstances, is not affected.
History of Section.
P.L. 1987, ch. 358, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-31.1 - Dentists and Dental Hygienists › Section 5-31.1-28. - Hospital disciplinary powers.

§ 5-31.1-28. Hospital disciplinary powers.
(a)
The board of trustees of a hospital or other appropriate authority licensed pursuant to the laws of the state is authorized to suspend, deny, revoke, or curtail the staff privileges of any staff member for good cause which includes the grounds specified in § 5-31.1-10 for unprofessional conduct; provided, that the procedures for those actions comply with the procedures, if any, that are outlined by the joint commission for accreditation of hospitals.
(b)
There is no liability on the part of and no cause of action of any nature arises against any hospital, hospital board of trustees, or any hospital medical staff committee, where instituted by hospital bylaws, for any action taken in good faith in carrying out the provisions of this chapter.
(c)
Any disciplinary action against a dentist or dental hygienist that involves loss of privileges, including for administrative reasons, shall promptly be reported to the board of examiners in dentistry by the hospital.
History of Section.
P.L. 1987, ch. 358, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-31.1 - Dentists and Dental Hygienists › Section 5-31.1-29. - Privileges and immunities for peer review activities.

§ 5-31.1-29. Privileges and immunities for peer review activities.
(a)
Neither the proceedings nor the records of peer-review boards as defined in § 5-31.1-1 are subject to discovery or admissible in evidence in any case save litigation arising out of the imposition of sanctions upon a dentist or dental hygienist. Any imposition or notice of a restriction of privileges or a requirement of supervision imposed on a dentist or dental hygienist for unprofessional conduct as defined in § 5-31.1-10 is subject to discovery and admissible in any proceeding against that dentist or dental hygienist for performing or against any dental-care facility or dental-care provider that allows the dentist to perform the dental procedures that are the subject of the restriction or supervision during the period of the restriction or supervision or subsequent to that period. Nothing contained in this section applies to records made in the regular course of business by a hospital or other provider of healthcare information. Documents or records available from original sources are not to be construed as immune from discovery or use in any civil proceedings merely because they were presented during the proceedings of the committee.
(b)
There is no monetary liability on the part of, and no cause of action for damages arising against, any member of an appointed peer-review board operated pursuant to written bylaws, for any act or proceeding undertaken or performed within the scope of the functions of that board.
(c)
There is no monetary liability on the part of, and no cause of action for damages arising against, any person on account of the communication of information in the possession of the person to any peer-review board or the board of examiners in dentistry when the communication is intended to aid in the evaluation of the qualifications, fitness, or character of a practitioner of dentistry or dental hygiene and does not represent as true any matter not reasonably believed to be true.
(d)
Any peer-review processes authorized by statute and carried out in good faith have the benefit of the state action exemption to the state antitrust law.
History of Section.
P.L. 1987, ch. 358, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-31.1 - Dentists and Dental Hygienists › Section 5-31.1-30. - Licensure required — Dental assistants excepted.

§ 5-31.1-30. Licensure required — Dental assistants excepted.
No person shall perform any act that constitutes the practice of dentistry in this state unless that person is licensed under the provisions of this chapter as a dentist or a dental hygienist, or unless that person performs limited auxiliary dental services, procedures, and duties as a dental assistant as provided by this chapter. The board of examiners in dentistry shall develop rules and procedures to implement a listing of all dental assistants practicing in the state.
History of Section.
P.L. 1987, ch. 358, § 2; P.L. 2013, ch. 172, § 2; P.L. 2013, ch. 201, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-31.1 - Dentists and Dental Hygienists › Section 5-31.1-32. - Disclosure of nonparticipation in dental insurance plans.

§ 5-31.1-32. Disclosure of nonparticipation in dental insurance plans.
(a)
Any dentist who is not a participant in a dental insurance plan and who, when treating patients of that plan, elects to use the direction to pay procedure set forth in title 27 must post a notice, in a conspicuous place in his or her offices where it can be read by his or her patients, that reads, in substance, as follows:
“To my patients:
“I do not participate in the dental insurance plan. You should know that you will be responsible for the payment of my dental fees.”
(b)
Any dentist who fails to post this notice is not entitled to charge his or her patients any amount for dental fees in excess of that allowed had the dentist participated in the patients’ dental insurance plan.
History of Section.
P.L. 1987, ch. 358, § 2; P.L. 2004, ch. 268, § 6; P.L. 2004, ch. 386, § 6.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-31.1 - Dentists and Dental Hygienists › Section 5-31.1-33. - Employment of hygienists — Practices allowed.

§ 5-31.1-33. Employment of hygienists — Practices allowed.
Any licensed dentist, public institution, or school authority may employ any licensed dental hygienist, whose activities are confined to performing those services and procedures that the licensed dental hygienist has been educated to perform, and which services and procedures are, from time to time, specifically authorized by rules and regulations adopted by the board of examiners in dentistry. Nothing in this section is construed to authorize a licensed dental hygienist to perform the following: diagnosis and treatment planning, surgical procedures on hard or soft tissue, prescribe medication, or administer general anesthesia or injectables other than oral local anesthesia.
History of Section.
P.L. 1987, ch. 358, § 2; P.L. 2005, ch. 219, § 1; P.L. 2005, ch. 232, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-31.1 - Dentists and Dental Hygienists › Section 5-31.1-34. - Immunity from liability.

§ 5-31.1-34. Immunity from liability.
No dentist licensed under the provisions of this chapter or members of the same profession 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 of assistance, is liable for civil damages for any personal injuries that result from acts or omissions by those persons in rendering the emergency care that 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, dentist’s office, or clinic where the services are normally rendered.
History of Section.
P.L. 1987, ch. 358, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-31.1 - Dentists and Dental Hygienists › Section 5-31.1-35. - Penalty for violations generally — Evidence of unauthorized practice.

§ 5-31.1-35. Penalty for violations generally — Evidence of unauthorized practice.
Any person who practices or attempts to practice dentistry in this state, without being licensed by and registered with the board, or without registering and obtaining annually a certificate of registration, as provided in this chapter, or who violates any of the provisions of this chapter, penalty for the violation of which is not provided by law, and any person, firm, or corporation owning or carrying on a dental business and in that business employing or permitting any person to practice dentistry in this state, without being licensed and obtaining an annual certificate as stated in this section, is guilty of a felony and, upon conviction, shall be fined not less than two thousand dollars ($2,000) nor more than five thousand dollars ($5,000), or imprisoned for not more than two (2) years, either or both, in the discretion of the court. In no case where any provision of this chapter has been violated is the person violating the provision entitled to receive compensation for service rendered. The opening or maintaining of a dentist’s office, displaying of a dentist’s sign or door plate, or the advertising in the public prints or by cards, circulars, posters, of a readiness to practice dentistry in this state by that person, firm, or corporation is evidence of the violation.
History of Section.
P.L. 1987, ch. 358, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-31.1 - Dentists and Dental Hygienists › Section 5-31.1-36. - Liability of employers and accomplices.

§ 5-31.1-36. Liability of employers and accomplices.
Any person who employs, hires, procures, or induces any other person not authorized by the provisions of this chapter to perform any act that constitutes the practice of dentistry in this state or aids or abets one not authorized in that practice is guilty of a felony punishable by a fine of not less than two thousand dollars ($2000) or more than five thousand dollars ($5000), or by imprisonment for not more than two (2) years, or by both fine and imprisonment.
History of Section.
P.L. 1987, ch. 358, § 2.