reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-44.2 - Abandoned Mobile and Manufactured Home Act › Section 31-44.2-5. - Order for removal of an abandoned mobile or manufactured home.

§ 31-44.2-5. Order for removal of an abandoned mobile or manufactured home.
(a)
An action for the removal of an abandoned mobile or manufactured home may be commenced by a landowner/licensee/municipality if a mobile or manufactured home has been abandoned and the following conditions have been met:
(1)
The mobile or manufactured home is not entitled to be situated on the property of the landowner/municipality/licensee; and
(2)
The mobile or manufactured home is:
(i)
Not connected to electricity or not connected to a source of safe potable water supply sufficient for normal residential needs, or both; or
(ii)
Not connected to an adequate wastewater disposal system; or
(iii)
Unoccupied for a period of at least one hundred twenty (120) days and for which there is clear and convincing evidence that the occupant does not intend to return; or
(iv)
So damaged, decayed, dilapidated, unsanitary, unsafe, or vermin infested that it creates a hazard to the health and safety of the occupants or the public.
(b)
The action shall be commenced by filing a thirty-day (30) notice for removal of the mobile or manufactured home, which shall be filed in the appropriate court according to the form provided in § 31-44.2-8.
(c)
Prior to filing the complaint, the plaintiff shall send a notice in the form provided in § 31-4.2-8 and therein shall specify that the defendant has thirty (30) days from the date notice is mailed therein to remedy the allegations in the complaint and that if he or she fails to do so within that time, suit for possession shall be commenced in accordance with § 31-44.2-4.
(d)
If the court finds that the defendant failed to remedy the allegations contained in the complaint to the satisfaction of the court, the court shall issue an order for the removal of the abandoned mobile or manufactured home in accordance with this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 2014, ch. 255, § 1; P.L. 2014, ch. 309, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-44.2 - Abandoned Mobile and Manufactured Home Act › Section 31-44.2-6. - Appeals.

§ 31-44.2-6. Appeals.
Appeals of actions brought under this chapter shall be pursuant to § 9-12-10.1.
History of Section.
P.L. 2014, ch. 255, § 1; P.L. 2014, ch. 309, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-44.2 - Abandoned Mobile and Manufactured Home Act › Section 31-44.2-7. - Execution.

§ 31-44.2-7. Execution.
If no appeal is claimed, and if the judgment has not been satisfied, execution shall be issued on the sixth (6th) day following judgment. Executions shall be issued to the division of sheriffs or licensed constables. Every execution issued by any district court pursuant to this chapter shall continue in full force and effect for one year after the date thereof, and be returnable to the district court that issued it in accordance with the provisions of § 9-25-21. All costs in carrying out the mandates of the execution may be added to the execution by the clerk upon approval of the court upon presentment of evidence of the costs.
History of Section.
P.L. 2014, ch. 255, § 1; P.L. 2014, ch. 309, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-44.2 - Abandoned Mobile and Manufactured Home Act › Section 31-44.2-9. - Auction of abandoned mobile or manufactured home.

§ 31-44.2-9. Auction of abandoned mobile or manufactured home.
(a)
If an order for removal of an abandoned mobile or manufactured home has been issued in accordance with § 31-44.2-5, the mobile or manufactured home may be sold at public auction. The purchaser of the mobile or manufactured home shall take title of the home free and clear of all liens and claims of ownership, shall receive a sales receipt and bill of sale, and shall be entitled to register the mobile or manufactured home.
(b)
From the proceeds of the sale of abandoned mobile or manufactured home, the plaintiff shall reimburse itself the expenses of the auction, the costs of towing, preserving, and storing the mobile or manufactured home and all notices and publication costs incurred pursuant to this chapter. Any remainder from the proceeds of a sale shall be held for the owner of the mobile or manufactured home or entitled lienholder for ninety (90) days and then shall be deposited in a special abandoned mobile or manufactured home fund at the department of business regulation that shall remain available for the payment of auction, towing, preserving, storage, and all notice and publication costs that result from other abandoned mobile and manufactured homes, whenever the proceeds from a sale of the other abandoned mobile or manufactured homes are insufficient to meet these expenses and costs.
(c)
Whenever the director finds that moneys in the abandoned mobile or manufactured home fund are in excess of reserves likely to be needed, he or she may transfer the excess to the general fund. But in the event there are additional claims against the abandoned mobile or manufactured home fund, or if the abandoned mobile or manufactured home fund is temporarily exhausted, these claims shall be met from the general fund to the limit of any transfers previously made to it pursuant to this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 2014, ch. 255, § 1; P.L. 2014, ch. 309, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-44.2 - Abandoned Mobile and Manufactured Home Act › Section 31-44.2-10. - Severability.

§ 31-44.2-10. Severability.
If any provision of this chapter or the application thereof to any person or circumstances is held invalid, the invalidity does not affect other provisions or application of this chapter which can be given effect without the invalid provision or application, and to this end the provisions of this chapter are severable.
History of Section.
P.L. 2014, ch. 255, § 1; P.L. 2014, ch. 309, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-45 - Noise Limits for Motor Vehicles › Section 31-45-1. - Noise limits.

§ 31-45-1. Noise limits.
(a)
No person shall operate a motor vehicle, nor shall the owner of any vehicle allow the vehicle to be operated, at any time, or under any condition of grade, load, acceleration, or deceleration, in such a manner as to exceed the following noise limit based on a distance of fifty feet (50′) from the center of the lane of travel within the speed limit. For the purposes of this section, “dbA” means decibels measured with a calibrated sound level meter weighted to the “A” scale.
(b)
In speed zones of thirty-five miles per hour (35 mph) or less, not more than eighty-six (86) dbA. In speed zones of more than thirty-five miles per hour (35 mph), not more than ninety (90) dbA.
(c)
Violations of this section are subject to fines enumerated in § 31-41.1-4.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 197, § 1; P.L. 2002, ch. 292, § 126.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-45 - Noise Limits for Motor Vehicles › Section 31-45-2. - Establishment of regulations.

§ 31-45-2. Establishment of regulations.
The director of the department of revenue is authorized to adopt rules, regulations, and procedures to be utilized in the enforcement of this chapter. The director is further authorized to lower the noise standards set forth in this chapter consistent with economic and technological feasibility. The procedure shall allow, to the extent feasible, noise measurement and enforcement action to be accomplished in reasonably confined areas such as residential areas. The adoption of those rules, regulations, and limits shall be pursuant to chapter 35 of title 42.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 197, § 1; P.L. 2008, ch. 98, § 28; P.L. 2008, ch. 145, § 28.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-45 - Noise Limits for Motor Vehicles › Section 31-45-3. - Applicability.

§ 31-45-3. Applicability.
This chapter applies to the total noise from a vehicle and shall not be construed as limiting or precluding the enforcement of any other provisions of law relating to motor vehicle exhaust noise.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 197, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-45 - Noise Limits for Motor Vehicles › Section 31-45-4. - Penalty.

§ 31-45-4. Penalty.
Every person convicted of violating this chapter shall be punished by a fine of not less than fifty dollars ($50.00) nor more than five hundred dollars ($500).
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 197, § 1; P.L. 2002, ch. 134, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-45 - Noise Limits for Motor Vehicles › Section 31-45-5. - Motor vehicle radios, stereos and audio systems.

§ 31-45-5. Motor vehicle radios, stereos and audio systems.
It shall be unlawful for any motor vehicle with a radio, stereo or audio system to produce sound which exceeds those limits specified in this chapter. Police cars, ambulances and fire engines shall not be subject to this section. Local cities and towns may, at their discretion, issue temporary exemption by special permit upon a showing of good cause. Violations of this section are subject to fines enumerated in § 31-41.1-4.
History of Section.
P.L. 1996, ch. 150, § 2; P.L. 2002, ch. 292, § 126.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-46 - Rhode Island Salvage Law › Section 31-46-1.1. - Classification of salvage vehicles.

§ 31-46-1.1. Classification of salvage vehicles.
There shall be two (2) classifications of salvage vehicles: Classification A indicates the vehicle has extensive damage and is good for “parts only.” Classification B indicates the vehicle has considerable damage but is considered repairable. It will be the responsibility of insurance companies to evaluate and classify salvage. The classification is subject to review and evaluation by the administrator of the division of motor vehicles or his or her designee.
History of Section.
P.L. 1983, ch. 221, § 3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-46 - Rhode Island Salvage Law › Section 31-46-2. - Salvage by insurer.

§ 31-46-2. Salvage by insurer.
If the insurance company sells the motor vehicle for any reason, it shall make application for a salvage certificate of title. The division of motor vehicles shall issue the salvage certificate of title on a form prescribed for by the administrator of the division of motor vehicles, that shall be of a color easily distinguished from the original certificate of title, and shall bear the same number and information as the original certificate of title. The salvage certificate of title shall be assigned by the insurance company to a salvage dealer or any other person for use as evidence of ownership upon the sale or other disposition of the salvage motor vehicle, and the title shall be assignable to any other person. The division of motor vehicles shall charge the insurance company a fee of fifty dollars ($50.00) for the cost of processing each salvage certificate title.
History of Section.
P.L. 1977, ch. 144, § 1; P.L. 1990, ch. 13, § 4; P.L. 1992, ch. 15, art. 7, § 2; P.L. 2009, ch. 5, art. 9, § 4.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-46 - Rhode Island Salvage Law › Section 31-46-3. - Salvage by non-insurer.

§ 31-46-3. Salvage by non-insurer.
If the total cost of repairs to rebuild or reconstruct the motor vehicle to its condition immediately before it was wrecked, destroyed or damaged, and for legal operations on the roads or highways, exceeds seventy-five percent (75%) of the fair market value of the motor vehicle immediately preceding the time it was wrecked, destroyed or damaged, and the motor vehicle is less than seven (7) years beyond the date of manufacture, the owner shall return within ten (10) days to the division of motor vehicles, the certificate of title of that vehicle and obtain a salvage certificate of title for that vehicle as prescribed for by the administrator of the division of motor vehicles. For the purposes of this section, “fair market value” shall mean the retail value of a motor vehicle as set forth in a current edition of any nationally recognized compilation of retail values, including automated databases, or from publications commonly used by the automotive industry to establish the values of motor vehicles, or determined pursuant to market survey of comparable vehicles with regard to condition and equipment. If any person, individual, or corporation or other owner sells the motor vehicle for any reason, that owner shall make application for a salvage certificate of title. The division of motor vehicles shall issue the salvage certificate of title on a form prescribed by the administrator of the division of motor vehicles that shall be of a color easily distinguished from the original certificate of title and shall bear the same number and information as the original certificate of title. The administrator of the division of motor vehicles shall charge the owner a fee of fifty dollars ($50.00) for the cost of processing each salvage certificate of title.
History of Section.
P.L. 1977, ch. 144, § 1; P.L. 1983, ch. 221, § 2; P.L. 1988, ch. 196, § 1; P.L. 1990, ch. 13, § 4; P.L. 1992, ch. 15, art. 7, § 2; P.L. 1993, ch. 138, art. 85, § 4; P.L. 2007, ch. 385, § 1; P.L. 2007, ch. 489, § 1; P.L. 2009, ch. 5, art. 9, § 4.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-46 - Rhode Island Salvage Law › Section 31-46-4. - Restoration.

§ 31-46-4. Restoration.
If a motor vehicle is restored for operation on the highways, application shall be made to the division of motor vehicles for a certificate of title. Upon inspection by the division of motor vehicles, which shall include establishing proof of ownership, and upon the surrender of the salvage certificate of title, the division of motor vehicles shall issue a certificate of title for a fee prescribed by the administrator of the division of motor vehicles. The certificate of title shall be in the same form and color as the original certificate and bear the same number as the salvage certificate and the original certificate and shall bear the word “re-constructed salvage” on the title. A fee of fifty-five dollars ($55.00) shall be assessed for each inspection made pursuant to this section.
History of Section.
P.L. 1977, ch. 144, § 1; P.L. 1983, ch. 78, § 1; P.L. 1992, ch. 133, art. 69, § 1; P.L. 1993, ch. 138, art. 85, § 4; P.L. 1995, ch. 108, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-46 - Rhode Island Salvage Law › Section 31-46-5. - Penalties.

§ 31-46-5. Penalties.
Any person, firm, or corporation who violates any of the provisions of this chapter shall be guilty of a felony and shall be punished by imprisonment for not more than five (5) years, a fine of not more than five thousand dollars ($5,000), or both.
History of Section.
P.L. 1977, ch. 144, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-46 - Rhode Island Salvage Law › Section 31-46-6. - Removal of vehicle identification number prohibited.

§ 31-46-6. Removal of vehicle identification number prohibited.
Under no circumstances shall any person intentionally remove any vehicle identification number, or other distinguishing number, from any part of a salvage motor vehicle, new or used, or any part of it.
History of Section.
P.L. 1983, ch. 221, § 3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-46 - Rhode Island Salvage Law › Section 31-46-7. - Repair of salvaged vehicles — Licenses.

§ 31-46-7. Repair of salvaged vehicles — Licenses.
(a)
A salvage rebuilders’ license shall be established and issued to all licensed auto body repair facilities that qualify under established guidelines. The regulations shall outline equipment and training necessary to rebuild (total loss) salvage vehicles prior to the issuance of a certificate of salvage title by the division of motor vehicles under § 31-46-4. The guidelines shall be promulgated by and the license shall be issued by the department of business regulation.
(b)
No company, corporation, business or person(s) shall rebuild salvage vehicles unless in possession of a valid salvage rebuilders license.
(c)
Any vehicle repaired or rebuilt by person(s) not in possession of this license shall have its title stamped “FOR PARTS ONLY”.
(d)
Any company, agency or person(s) found in violation of this section shall be guilty of a felony and shall be punished by imprisonment for not more than two (2) years, or a fine of five thousand dollars ($5,000), or both.
(e)
The director of the department of business regulation shall be required to issue a “salvage rebuilders license form” which for the purposes of record keeping shall be numbered. Any salvage vehicle sold to a salvage rebuilder licensee shall be assigned a salvage rebuilders license form which shall be presented at the time of registration of any salvage vehicle.
History of Section.
P.L. 1993, ch. 316, § 1; P.L. 1995, ch. 205, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-47 - Motor Vehicle Reparations Act › Section 31-47-1. - Short title and declaration of purpose.

§ 31-47-1. Short title and declaration of purpose.
(a)
This chapter shall be known and may be cited as the “Motor Vehicle Reparation Act.”
(b)
The legislature is concerned over the rising toll of motor vehicle accidents and the suffering and loss inflicted by them. The legislature has determined that it is a matter of grave concern that motorists shall be financially able to respond in damages for their negligent acts, so that innocent victims of motor vehicle accidents may be recompensed for the injury and financial loss inflicted upon them.
History of Section.
P.L. 1991, ch. 167, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-47 - Motor Vehicle Reparations Act › Section 31-47-1.1. - Legislative findings and intent.

§ 31-47-1.1. Legislative findings and intent.
WHEREAS, the General Assembly has conducted extensive hearings on the issue of mandatory automobile insurance and finds that:
(1)
Mandatory automobile liability insurance will not guarantee that all drivers will carry automobile liability insurance and in other states with mandatory automobile insurance nearly twenty percent (20%) to twenty-five percent (25%) of drivers do not comply with the state mandate and drive without insurance;
(2)
Because of the evidence described in subdivision (1), Rhode Island drivers will need to carry additional insurance, to protect themselves from harm by uninsured motorists;
(3)
All presently uninsured drivers who try to acquire automobile insurance will be placed in the assigned risk pool regardless of a good driving record, at an excessive rate;
(4)
The state of Rhode Island ranks the eighth (8th) highest in the country for the cost of automobile insurance litigation per capita, this high cost of legal action adds to the already high cost of automobile insurance;
(5)
No-fault insurance can reduce the cost of automobile insurance by reducing litigation and right-to-sue, but evidence also indicates that no-fault insurance can increase the cost of insurance if not properly enacted;
(6)
A proposed rate increase in the Rhode Island Auto Insurance Plan of thirty-four percent (34%) has been granted without full disclosure by insurance companies of their investments, profits, losses, administrative costs and other pertinent information to justify the rate increase;
(7)
Fraud, theft and inflated automobile repair costs are significant elements of the increased cost of automobile insurance which must be reduced;
(8)(i)
The Governor of the state has agreed to immediately institute a blue ribbon task force to investigate the causes for the high cost of automobile insurance, recommend remedies to reduce the cost of automobile insurance and prepare legislation for introduction. The scope of the task force shall include, but not be limited to, the reviewing of:
(A)
Procedures and processes concerning claims, appraisals, adjustments and auto repair charges,
(B)
Costs of litigation, including the imposition of ceiling or caps on legal fees,
(C)
Disclosure by insurance companies of all costs to do business, including those that affect premium rates,
(D)
Enforcement and restitution procedures.
(ii)
The task force shall make specific recommendations to the general assembly pertaining to the alternatives of no-fault insurance, traditional liability and so-called “choice” legislation which provides an option of no-fault or traditional liability insurance.
History of Section.
P.L. 1992, ch. 431, § 1; P.L. 2000, ch. 109, § 46.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-47 - Motor Vehicle Reparations Act › Section 31-47-1.2. - Subpoena.

§ 31-47-1.2. Subpoena.
The governor shall have the right to grant subpoena powers, by executive order, to any commission or task force created to investigate the causes for the high cost of automobile insurance in Rhode Island, as referenced in § 31-47-1.1(8).
History of Section.
P.L. 1992, ch. 431, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-47 - Motor Vehicle Reparations Act › Section 31-47-3. - Regulations authorized — Access to court and agency records.

§ 31-47-3. Regulations authorized — Access to court and agency records.
(a)
The administrator of the division of motor vehicles is authorized to promulgate reasonable regulations to provide effective administration and enforcement of the provisions of this chapter.
(b)
Notwithstanding any contrary provisions of this or any other law of this state, the administrator of the division of motor vehicles, for the purpose of carrying out the provisions of this chapter, shall have access to the records of the family court and all other courts and agencies concerning motor vehicle violations of any person who has applied for motor vehicle liability insurance. Upon request of the insurance company to which application has been made, the administrator of the division of motor vehicles shall make available to the insurance company any information concerning motor vehicle violations of the applicant.
History of Section.
P.L. 1991, ch. 167, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-47 - Motor Vehicle Reparations Act › Section 31-47-3.1. - Registration application.

§ 31-47-3.1. Registration application.
(a)
No motor vehicle shall be registered and no registration renewed in this state unless the application for the registration of a motor vehicle shall contain a statement to be signed by the applicant who does all of the following:
(1)
States that the applicant will not operate, or allow to be operated, the registered motor vehicle or any other motor vehicle unless all those motor vehicles shall be covered by financial security;
(2)
Contains a brief summary of the purposes and operation of this chapter, the rights and duties of the applicant and the penalties for violation of this chapter;
(3)
Warns the applicant that this chapter does not prevent the possibility that the applicant may be involved in an accident with an owner or operator of a motor vehicle who is without financial responsibility.
(b)(1)
In the case of a person who purchases any motor vehicle from a licensed motor vehicle dealer, who agrees to make application for registration of the motor vehicle on behalf of the purchaser, the person shall sign a statement that complies with subsection (a) of this section.
(2)
In the case of a person who leases any motor vehicle from a dealer engaged in the business of leasing motor vehicles who agrees to make application for registration of the motor vehicle on behalf of the lessee, the person shall sign a statement that complies with subsection (a) of this section, and the dealer shall do either of the following:
(i)
Submit the statement signed by the person to the division of motor vehicles;
(ii)
Sign and submit a statement that certifies that the statement has been signed and filed with the dealer or incorporated into the lease.
(iii)
The administrator of the division of motor vehicles shall prescribe the form for all statements required under this section and the manner in which these statements shall be presented to the applicant. Statements shall be designed to enable the applicant to retain a copy.
(iv)
An application for an operator’s, chauffeur’s, restricted or probationary license, or renewal of those licenses shall contain a statement to be signed by the applicant that does all of the following:
(A)
States that the applicant will not operate a motor vehicle in this state, unless he or she maintains, or has maintained on his or her behalf, financial security;
(B)
Contains a brief summary of the purposes and operation of this chapter, the rights and duties of the applicant and the penalties for violation of this chapter;
(C)
Warns the applicant that the financial responsibility law does not prevent the possibility that the applicant may be involved in an accident with an owner or operator of a motor vehicle who is without financial security.
History of Section.
P.L. 1991, ch. 167, § 1; P.L. 1992, ch. 431, § 2; P.L. 1993, ch. 4, § 1; ch. 142, § 2; P.L. 2000, ch. 109, § 46.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-47 - Motor Vehicle Reparations Act › Section 31-47-4. - Notice of termination.

§ 31-47-4. Notice of termination.
(a)
No contract of insurance or renewal of it shall be terminated by cancellation or failure to renew by the insurer until at least thirty (30) days after mailing to the named insured, at the address shown on the policy a notice of termination or cancellation by certificate of mailing, except that when cancellation is for nonpayment of premium the notice shall be mailed to the named insured at the address shown on the policy at least ten (10) days prior to the effective date of cancellation.
(b)
Time of the effective date and hour of termination stated in the notice shall become the end of the policy period.
(c)
Every notice of termination for any cause whatsoever sent to the insured shall include in type of which the face shall not be smaller than twelve (12) point, a statement that financial security is required to be maintained continuously throughout the registration period and that failure to maintain financial security shall subject the violator to a mandatory suspension of license and registration.
History of Section.
P.L. 1991, ch. 167, § 1; P.L. 1993, ch. 181, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-47 - Motor Vehicle Reparations Act › Section 31-47-5. - Acceptance of financial security deposits.

§ 31-47-5. Acceptance of financial security deposits.
(a)
All moneys or securities delivered to the assistant director as a financial security deposit shall be placed by the assistant director in the custody of the general treasurer. These assets shall be subject to execution to satisfy any judgment for damages for bodily injury or death, or injury to or destruction of property arising out of the ownership, maintenance, use, or operation of the motor vehicle with respect to which the deposit has been accepted. This deposit is subject to the same limits on amount required by this chapter for an owner’s policy of liability insurance, and if the moneys or securities shall be otherwise subjected to attachment or any execution, the depositor shall immediately furnish additional moneys or securities not otherwise subject to attachment or execution to meet the requirements of this chapter.
(b)
The assistant director shall not accept moneys or securities as a financial security deposit unless accompanied by evidence that there are no unsatisfied judgments against the person.
History of Section.
P.L. 1991, ch. 167, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-47 - Motor Vehicle Reparations Act › Section 31-47-6. - Release of financial security bonds or deposits.

§ 31-47-6. Release of financial security bonds or deposits.
(a)
The administrator of the division of motor vehicles, upon the surrender of the registration and number plates for a motor vehicle for which a financial security bond or deposit was accepted by the administrator of the division of motor vehicles, shall permit the cancellation of any bond or shall direct that any deposit be returned by the general treasurer. The administrator of the division of motor vehicles shall not release the bond or deposit in the event any action for damages upon a liability referred to in this chapter is then pending, or any judgment upon any liability then outstanding and unsatisfied, or in the event the administrator of the division of motor vehicles has received notice that the person has within the period of three (3) months immediately preceding been involved as a driver in any motor vehicle accident. An affidavit of the applicant of nonexistence of those facts shall be sufficient evidence of it in the absence of evidence to the contrary in the records of the division of motor vehicles.
(b)
The administrator of the division of motor vehicles, subject to any reasonable regulations that he or she may establish, shall permit the form of financial security acceptable under this chapter to be substituted for another form of financial security which may already have been accepted by the assistant director as complies with the provisions of this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1991, ch. 167, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-47 - Motor Vehicle Reparations Act › Section 31-47-7. - Self-insurers.

§ 31-47-7. Self-insurers.
The director of the department of business regulation, in his or her discretion, may upon the application of a person having registered in his or her name in this state more than twenty-five (25) motor vehicles, issue a certificate of self insurance when he or she is reasonably satisfied that the person is possessed, and will continue to be possessed, of financial ability to respond to judgments obtained against the person arising out of the ownership, maintenance, use, or operation of the person’s motor vehicles. Entities applying to, or previously authorized to, permissibly self-insure are subject to the jurisdiction of the department of business regulation. Upon due notice and hearing, the director of the department of business regulation may, in his or her discretion and upon reasonable grounds, cancel a certificate of self insurance. The department of business regulation is authorized to promulgate and enforce rules and regulations that may be necessary to carry out the provisions of this section, including, but not limited to:
(1)
Obtaining and reviewing financial statements and related information necessary to ascertain the applicant’s ability to self-insure,
(2)
Apportioning the cost of review to the applicant in a manner similar to that utilized to charge insurance companies for review and analysis of their financial statements, and
(3)
Imposing and enforcing upon entities authorized to permissibly self-insure any and all claims handling and settlement practices required of insurers in the settlement of claims.
History of Section.
P.L. 1991, ch. 167, § 1; P.L. 2014, ch. 29, § 3; P.L. 2014, ch. 36, § 3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-47 - Motor Vehicle Reparations Act › Section 31-47-8. - [Repealed.]

§ 31-47-8. [Repealed.]
History of Section.
P.L. 1991, ch. 167, § 1; P.L. 1998, ch. 229, § 1; P.L. 1998, ch. 440, § 1; repealed by P.L. 2021, ch. 398, § 2, effective July 14, 2021; repealed by P.L. 2021, ch. 399, § 2, effective July 14, 2021.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-47 - Motor Vehicle Reparations Act › Section 31-47-8.1. - [Repealed.]

§ 31-47-8.1. [Repealed.]
History of Section.
P.L. 1993, ch. 378, § 1; P.L. 1999, ch. 83, § 75; P.L. 1999, ch. 130, § 75; P.L. 2008, ch. 98, § 29; P.L. 2008, ch. 145, § 29; repealed by P.L. 2021, ch. 398, § 2, effective July 14, 2021; repealed by P.L. 2021, ch. 399, § 2, effective July 14, 2021.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-47 - Motor Vehicle Reparations Act › Section 31-47-9.1. - Penalties — Illegal evidence of financial security.

§ 31-47-9.1. Penalties — Illegal evidence of financial security.
(a)
No person shall knowingly make, sell or otherwise make available any invalid or counterfeit evidence of financial security as defined in this chapter. No person shall alter any invalid evidence of financial security to make it appear valid.
(b)
Any person convicted of a violation of this section shall be guilty of a felony and shall be punished by a fine of not less than five hundred dollars ($500), nor more than three thousand dollars ($3,000), or imprisonment of not more than one year, or both.
History of Section.
P.L. 1993, ch. 379, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-47 - Motor Vehicle Reparations Act › Section 31-47-10. - [Repealed.]

§ 31-47-10. [Repealed.]
History of Section.
P.L. 1991, ch. 167, § 1; P.L. 2001, ch. 158, § 1; repealed by P.L. 2021, ch. 398, § 2, effective July 14, 2021; repealed by P.L. 2021, ch. 399, § 2, effective July 14, 2021.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-47 - Motor Vehicle Reparations Act › Section 31-47-11. - Reinstatement of suspended license or registration.

§ 31-47-11. Reinstatement of suspended license or registration.
Any order of suspension or impoundment issued under this chapter may be terminated at any time if the administrator of the division of motor vehicles determines upon a showing of proof of financial security that the operator or owner of the motor vehicle was in compliance with financial security requirements of this chapter at the time of the traffic offense or accident which resulted in the order against the person. That determination may be made without a hearing. This section does not apply unless the person shows good cause for the person’s failure to present satisfactory proof of financial responsibility to the court, traffic tribunal, or administrator of the division of motor vehicles prior to the issuance of the order.
History of Section.
P.L. 1991, ch. 167, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-47 - Motor Vehicle Reparations Act › Section 31-47-12.1. - Right to choose auto body repair facility.

§ 31-47-12.1. Right to choose auto body repair facility.
Any evidence of proof of financial responsibility or security shall include the following statement therein in bold face print:
“PURSUANT TO RHODE ISLAND LAW, THE CONSUMER HAS THE RIGHT TO CHOOSE THE REPAIR FACILITY TO COMPLETE REPAIRS TO A MOTOR VEHICLE. AN INSURANCE COMPANY MAY NOT INTERFERE WITH THE CONSUMER’S CHOICE OF REPAIRER.”
History of Section.
P.L. 2005, ch. 205, § 1; P.L. 2007, ch. 526, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-47 - Motor Vehicle Reparations Act › Section 31-47-13. - Insurers and sureties.

§ 31-47-13. Insurers and sureties.
(a)
A finding by the administrator of the division of motor vehicles or traffic tribunal, or court that a person is covered by financial responsibility in the form of an insurance policy or surety bond is not binding upon the named insurer or surety or any of its officers, employees, agents, or representatives and has no legal effect except for the purpose of administering this section.
(b)
The preparation and delivery of a document authorized to be used as financial responsibility under this division does not do any of the following:
(1)
Create any liability or estoppel against an insurer or surety, or any of its officers, employees, agents, or representatives;
(2)
Constitute an admission of the existence of, or of any liability or coverage under, any policy or bond;
(3)
Waive any defenses or counterclaims available to an insurer, surety, agent, employee, or representative in an action commenced by an insured or third party claimant upon a cause of action alleged to have arisen under an insurance policy or surety bond or by reason of the preparation and delivery of a document for use as financial responsibility.
(c)
Whenever it is determined by a final judgment in a judicial proceeding that an insurer or surety, which has been named on a document accepted by a court or the administrator of the division of motor vehicles as financial responsibility covering the operation of a motor vehicle at the time of an accident or offense, is not liable to pay a judgment for injuries or damages resulting from that operation, the administrator of the division of motor vehicles shall, notwithstanding any previous contrary finding, immediately suspend the operating privileges and registration rights of the person against whom the judgment was rendered as provided by this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1991, ch. 167, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-47 - Motor Vehicle Reparations Act › Section 31-47-14. - Notice to other jurisdictions.

§ 31-47-14. Notice to other jurisdictions.
The administrator of the division of motor vehicles shall transmit a certified copy of any record of any conviction under this chapter or of any action taken pursuant to this chapter resulting in revocation of a nonresident’s privilege to operate a motor vehicle in this state or the privilege of the operation within this state of any motor vehicle owned by the nonresident to the administrator of the division of motor vehicles or officer performing similar functions in the state in which the nonresident resides.
History of Section.
P.L. 1991, ch. 167, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-47 - Motor Vehicle Reparations Act › Section 31-47-15. - Exceptions.

§ 31-47-15. Exceptions.
This chapter shall not apply to any motor vehicle for the operation of which security or proof of financial responsibility is required to be furnished under §§ 39-14-18, 39-14-19, 39-13-7, 39-13-8, and 39-13-9, nor to any vehicle for which a permit or certificate is in force pursuant to the Interstate Commerce Act (see now 49 U.S.C. § 10101 et seq.), nor to any motor vehicle owned by the United States, any state, or any political subdivision of any state.
History of Section.
P.L. 1991, ch. 167, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-47 - Motor Vehicle Reparations Act › Section 31-47-15.1. - Exception for seasonal vehicles.

§ 31-47-15.1. Exception for seasonal vehicles.
(a)
Upon receipt of a signed written request for a suspension from the owner of a registered motor vehicle stating that the vehicle will not be operated upon any highway during a period of not less than thirty (30) consecutive days, the insurer of the vehicle shall suspend, to the extent requested by the owner, insurance afforded under the policy providing the security required by this chapter, for the vehicle until notified by the owner that the coverage should be reinstated. During the period of suspension only, the provisions of this chapter shall not apply with respect to the vehicle. If the vehicle is operated upon any highway by or with the permission of the owner during the period of suspension, the provisions of this chapter shall immediately become applicable.
(b)
As used in this section, the term “highway” includes all roads as defined in § 31-1-23, except a private road or driveway.
(c)
This section shall not apply to a motor vehicle for which proof of financial responsibility is required under the provisions of chapter 32 of this title. This section shall not apply to motorized vehicles used seasonally in the town of New Shoreham commonly referred to as mopeds.
History of Section.
P.L. 1996, ch. 334, § 1; P.L. 2021, ch. 398, § 7, effective July 14, 2021; P.L. 2021, ch. 399, § 7, effective July 14, 2021.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-47 - Motor Vehicle Reparations Act › Section 31-47-15.2. - Exception — Vehicles owned by active duty military personnel.

§ 31-47-15.2. Exception — Vehicles owned by active duty military personnel.
(a)
“Highway,” as used in this section, means all roads as defined in § 31-1-23, except a private road or driveway.
(b)
Upon receipt of a signed written request for a suspension from the owner of a registered motor vehicle stating that the vehicle will not be operated upon any highway during a period of not less than thirty (30) consecutive days as a consequence of the entrance of the owner into the active duty military service of the United States, the insurer of that vehicle shall suspend, to the extent requested by the owner, insurance afforded under the policy providing the security required by this chapter for that vehicle until notified by the owner that the coverage should be reinstated. During the period of suspension only, the provisions of this chapter do not apply as to that vehicle. If the vehicle is operated upon any highway by or with the permission of the owner during the period of suspension, the provisions of this chapter immediately become applicable. Reinstatement of coverage shall be under the same terms and conditions as were in effect at the time of notification of suspension.
History of Section.
P.L. 2002, ch. 256, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-47 - Motor Vehicle Reparations Act › Section 31-47-16. - Assigned risk plans.

§ 31-47-16. Assigned risk plans.
After consultation with insurance companies authorized to issue automobile liability policies in this state, the insurance commissioner shall approve a reasonable plan or plans for the equitable apportionment among the insurance companies of applicants for those policies and for motor vehicle liability policies who are in good faith entitled to them, and are unable to procure those policies through ordinary methods. When any plan has been approved, all insurance companies shall subscribe to and participate in it. Any applicant for any automobile liability policy, any person insured under any assigned risk plan, and any insurance company affected, may appeal to the insurance commissioner from any ruling or decision of the manager or committee designated to operate the plan. Any person aggrieved under this section by any order or act of the insurance commissioner may, within ten (10) days after notice of it, file a petition in the superior court for the counties of Providence and Bristol for a review of the petition. The court shall summarily hear the petition and may make any appropriate order or decree.
History of Section.
P.L. 1991, ch. 167, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-47 - Motor Vehicle Reparations Act › Section 31-47-17. - Insurance companies.

§ 31-47-17. Insurance companies.
If there is reason to believe that there has been a noncompliance with any of the provisions of this chapter, every insurance company authorized to issue automobile liability policies shall be required upon request to provide the division of motor vehicles with information sufficient to evidence an individual’s compliance with this chapter within ten (10) days of request.
History of Section.
P.L. 1991, ch. 167, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-47 - Motor Vehicle Reparations Act › Section 31-47-18. - Automobile liability insurance rates.

§ 31-47-18. Automobile liability insurance rates.
Any general or public law to the contrary notwithstanding, the commissioner shall, after consulting with all insurers licensed to write automobile liability insurance in this state, promulgate regulations which provide that automobile liability insurance rates shall take into account the past claim experience of the applicant for the insurance and incorporate the principles used in so called “merit rating” or “experience rating” rate plans which are now in effect in other states.
History of Section.
P.L. 1991, ch. 167, § 1; P.L. 2000, ch. 109, § 46.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-47 - Motor Vehicle Reparations Act › Section 31-47-19. - Constitutionality.

§ 31-47-19. Constitutionality.
If any part or parts of this chapter shall be held unconstitutional, the unconstitutionality shall not affect the validity of the remaining parts of this chapter. The legislature declares that it would have passed the remaining parts of this chapter if it had known that any part or parts of it would be declared unconstitutional.
History of Section.
P.L. 1991, ch. 167, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-47.1 - Motor Vehicle Emissions Inspection Program › Section 31-47.1-1. - Legislative findings.

§ 31-47.1-1. Legislative findings.
The general assembly finds and declares that:
(1)
Air quality in Rhode Island does not meet the national and state ambient air quality standard for ozone;
(2)
Poor air quality has an adverse effect on the health of all Rhode Island residents, particularly the elderly, the very young and those with respiratory ailments;
(3)
Motor vehicle emissions account for a substantial amount of air pollution problems in the state;
(4)
There is a dramatic need to reduce motor vehicle emissions in Rhode Island;
(5)
The Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990 (42 U.S.C. § 7401 et seq.) mandates that the states formulate and implement individual programs to systematically improve ambient air quality, including a program to reduce emissions through the inspection and maintenance of motor vehicles;
(6)
Should Rhode Island fail to act in a timely manner to improve its ambient air quality pursuant to the Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990, notwithstanding the continued adverse effect air pollution will have on the environment and citizenry of the state, the United States department of transportation will withhold highway funding until compliance is attained, the United States environmental protection agency will withhold grants to support air pollution planning and control programs until compliance is attained, require new emissions be offset by emissions reductions at a ratio of two (2) to one, and will implement a motor vehicle emissions inspection program in the state. In addition, the citizens of the state of Rhode Island may seek injunctive relief under the provisions of the Clean Air Act (42 U.S.C. § 7401 et seq.).
(7)
The general assembly enacted legislation mandating a centralized system for motor vehicle emissions inspections and maintenance during the January 1993 session;
(8)
The centralized motor vehicle emission inspection and maintenance program was never implemented;
(9)
A decentralized system for motor vehicle emission inspection is more desirable than a centralized system;
(10)
Designing, promulgating and implementing a decentralized system for motor vehicle emissions inspection and maintenance will improve air quality, protect the health of Rhode Islanders, assure compliance with the federal clean air act and allow the removal of sanctions imposed on the state of Rhode Island.
History of Section.
P.L. 1993, ch. 254, § 1; P.L. 1997, ch. 65, § 2; P.L. 1998, ch. 327, § 1.