reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-14 - Payment of Wages › Section 28-14-12. - Employment records.

§ 28-14-12. Employment records.
Every employer shall keep a true and accurate record of hours worked and wages paid each pay period to each employee in any form that may be prescribed by the director. The employer shall keep the records on file for at least three (3) years after the entry of the record.
History of Section.
P.L. 1941, ch. 1069, § 7; G.L. 1956, § 28-14-12; P.L. 1989, ch. 121, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-14 - Payment of Wages › Section 28-14-13. - Inspection powers.

§ 28-14-13. Inspection powers.
The director and his or her authorized representatives shall have the right to enter any place of employment for the purpose of inspecting the employment records required by § 28-14-12 and seeing that all provisions of this chapter are complied with.
History of Section.
P.L. 1941, ch. 1069, § 7; G.L. 1956, § 28-14-13; P.L. 1986, ch. 198, § 18.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-14 - Payment of Wages › Section 28-14-14. - Obstruction of enforcement.

§ 28-14-14. Obstruction of enforcement.
Any effort of any employer to obstruct the director and his or her authorized representatives in the performance of their duties shall be deemed a violation of this chapter and punishable as such.
History of Section.
P.L. 1941, ch. 1069, § 7; G.L. 1956, § 28-14-14.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-14 - Payment of Wages › Section 28-14-15. - Subpoena powers.

§ 28-14-15. Subpoena powers.
The director and his or her authorized representatives shall have the power to administer oaths and examine witnesses under oath, issue subpoenas, subpoenas duces tecum, compel the attendance of witnesses, and the production of papers, books, accounts, records, payrolls, documents, and testimony, and to take depositions and affidavits in any proceeding before the director.
History of Section.
P.L. 1941, ch. 1069, § 7; G.L. 1956, § 28-14-15.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-14 - Payment of Wages › Section 28-14-16. - Compelling obedience to subpoenas.

§ 28-14-16. Compelling obedience to subpoenas.
In case of failure of any person to comply with any lawfully issued subpoena, or subpoena duces tecum, or on the refusal of any witness to testify to any matter regarding which he or she may be lawfully interrogated, it shall be the duty of the superior court, or any judge of that court, on application by the director, to compel obedience by proceedings in the nature of those for contempt.
History of Section.
P.L. 1941, ch. 1069, § 7; G.L. 1956, § 28-14-16.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-14 - Payment of Wages › Section 28-14-17.1. - Administrative assessment.

§ 28-14-17.1. Administrative assessment.
(a)
Any employer found to have violated the provisions of this chapter upon final determination by the department of labor and training, including claims settled via settlement agreement and administrative hearing, shall be assessed an administrative penalty equal to fifteen percent (15%) to twenty-five percent (25%) of the amount of back wages ordered to be paid for a first violation within a three-year (3) period. For subsequent violations within a three-year (3) period, the assessment shall equal twenty-five percent (25%) to fifty percent (50%) of the amount of back wages ordered to be paid.
(b)
In determining the amount of any penalty imposed under this section, the director or his or her designee shall consider the good faith of the employer; the gravity of the violation; the history of previous violations; and whether or not the violation was an innocent mistake or willful violation.
History of Section.
P.L. 2017, ch. 302, art. 13, § 6.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-14 - Payment of Wages › Section 28-14-18. - [Repealed.]

§ 28-14-18. [Repealed.]
History of Section.
P.L. 1992, ch. 179, § 2; Repealed by P.L. 2012, ch. 306, § 3; P.L. 2012, ch. 344, § 3, effective June 20, 2012.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-14 - Payment of Wages › Section 28-14-18.1. - [Repealed.]

§ 28-14-18.1. [Repealed.]
History of Section.
P.L. 1992, ch. 179, § 2; Repealed by P.L. 2012, ch. 306, § 3; P.L. 2012, ch. 344, § 3, effective June 20, 2012.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-14 - Payment of Wages › Section 28-14-18.2. - [Repealed.]

§ 28-14-18.2. [Repealed.]
History of Section.
P.L. 1992, ch. 179, § 2; Repealed by P.L. 2012, ch. 306, § 3; P.L. 2012, ch. 344, § 3, effective June 20, 2012.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-14 - Payment of Wages › Section 28-14-18.3. - Collective bargaining.

§ 28-14-18.3. Collective bargaining.
This chapter shall not be construed to diminish or impair the rights of a person under any collective bargaining agreement.
History of Section.
P.L. 1992, ch. 179, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-14 - Payment of Wages › Section 28-14-18.4. - Extension of protection — Annual report.

§ 28-14-18.4. Extension of protection — Annual report.
(a)
The relief and damages for violations set forth in §§ 28-14-19.2 and 28-14-19.3 shall also apply to § 28-41-35(f) and (g) and chapters 3, 6, 12, and 18 of this title, chapter 23 of title 5, and chapter 3 of title 25.
(b)
The director, on or before December 31, 2024, and annually thereafter, shall submit a report to the governor, the speaker of the house, and the president of the senate regarding all complaints filed in the preceding year with the department of labor and training (the “department”) for alleged violations of § 28-41-35(f) and (g).
(c)
The annual report required pursuant to subsection (b) of this section shall include, but not be limited to, the following information:
(1)
The total number of complaints filed with the department for alleged violations of § 28-41-35(f) or (g), or both;
(2)
The exact nature of the alleged violations;
(3)
How each complaint was resolved, whether after hearing or settlement;
(4)
Whether the findings after hearing were appealed;
(5)
Results of each appeal;
(6)
The number of complaints in which an alleged violation was determined to be founded, and the number of complaints determined to be unfounded or dismissed; and
(7)
A determination of the number of complaints for alleged violations of § 28-41-35(f) or (g) which also included an alleged violation of § 25-3-3, and the resolution of the complaint with respect to the alleged violation of § 25-3-3.
(d)
The provisions of subsections (b) and (c) of this section shall sunset and expire on July 1, 2025, unless extended by the general assembly.
History of Section.
P.L. 1992, ch. 179, § 2; P.L. 2023, ch. 248, § 1, effective June 22, 2023; P.L. 2023, ch. 249, § 1, effective June 22, 2023.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-14 - Payment of Wages › Section 28-14-19.2. - Private right of action to collect wages or benefits and for equitable relief.

§ 28-14-19.2. Private right of action to collect wages or benefits and for equitable relief.
(a)
Any employee or former employee, or any organization representing the employee or former employee aggrieved by the failure to pay wages and/or benefits or misclassification in violation of chapter 12 of this title and/or this chapter may file a civil action in any court of competent jurisdiction to obtain relief. An aggrieved party shall be entitled to recover any unpaid wages and/or benefits, compensatory damages, and liquidated damages in an amount up to two (2) times the amount of unpaid wages and/or benefits owed, as well as an award of appropriate equitable relief, including reinstatement of employment, fringe benefits and seniority rights, and reasonable attorney’s fees and costs, and/or such other appropriate relief or penalties authorized under this chapter and chapter 12 of this title. In determining the amount of any penalty imposed under this section, consideration shall be given to the size of the employer’s business, the good faith of the employer, the gravity of the violation, the history of previous violations, and whether or not the violation was an innocent mistake or willful. Any unpaid fringe benefit contributions owed pursuant to this section in any form shall be paid to the appropriate benefit fund: however, in the absence of an appropriate fund, the benefit shall be paid directly to the aggrieved employee.
(b)
An action instituted pursuant to this section may be brought by one or more employees or former employees individually and/or on behalf of other employees similarly situated.
(c)
No agreement between the employee and employer to work for less than the applicable wage and/or benefit rate or to otherwise work under terms and/or conditions in violation of applicable law is a defense to an action brought pursuant to this section.
(d)
An employer’s responsibility and liability hereunder is solely to the employer’s own employees.
(e)
A civil action filed under this section may be instituted instead of, but not in addition to, the director of labor and training enforcement procedures authorized by the above referenced chapters, provided the civil action is filed prior to the date the director of labor and training issues notice of an administrative hearing.
(f)
The filing of a civil action under this section shall not preclude the director of labor and training from investigating the matter and/or referring the matter to the attorney general, contractors’ registration board, and/or the tax administrator.
(g)
Any claim hereunder shall be forever barred unless commenced within three (3) years after the cause of action accrued.
History of Section.
P.L. 2012, ch. 306, § 4; P.L. 2012, ch. 344, § 4.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-14 - Payment of Wages › Section 28-14-19.3. - Protection from retaliation.

§ 28-14-19.3. Protection from retaliation.
No employer, or any person acting on behalf of the employer, shall discharge, threaten, or otherwise discriminate or retaliate against an employee or any other person for asserting, supporting, reporting, or participating in or being asked to participate in the investigation or determination of claim violation or actionable under this chapter or chapter 12 of this title.
Any person aggrieved by a violation of this section shall be entitled to relief as provided under chapter 50 of this title (“The Rhode Island Whistleblowers’ Protection Act”), provided, that such action must be commenced within one year after the cause of action accrued or shall be thereafter barred.
History of Section.
P.L. 2012, ch. 306, § 4; P.L. 2012, ch. 344, § 4.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-14 - Payment of Wages › Section 28-14-20. - Filing of claims.

§ 28-14-20. Filing of claims.
(a)
All claims for wages may be filed with the director within three (3) years from the time of services rendered by an employee to his or her employer.
(b)
An aggrieved person who alleges a violation of any provision of this chapter may bring a civil action for appropriate injunctive relief or actual damages or both within three (3) years after the occurrence of the alleged violation of this chapter.
(c)
An action commenced pursuant to subsection (b) may be brought in the court for the county where the alleged violation occurred; the county where the complainant resides; or the county where the employer against whom the civil complaint is filed resides or has his, her or its principal place of business.
(d)
As used in subsection (b), damages include two (2) times the wages owed to the employee for the first offense.
(e)
Attorney’s fees, including litigation expenses, may be granted to a prevailing plaintiff.
History of Section.
P.L. 1941, ch. 1069, § 6; G.L. 1956, § 28-14-20; P.L. 1990, ch. 488, § 1; P.L. 1991, ch. 425, § 1; P.L. 2002, ch. 301, § 1; P.L. 2016, ch. 435, § 2; P.L. 2016, ch. 436, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-14 - Payment of Wages › Section 28-14-21. - Acceptance of claims of nonresidents for collection.

§ 28-14-21. Acceptance of claims of nonresidents for collection.
The labor relations board shall not accept for collection the unpaid wage claim of any nonresident of this state unless the state of which that nonresident is a citizen accepts for collection the unpaid wage claims of Rhode Island residents.
History of Section.
P.L. 1941, ch. 1069, § 3; P.L. 1942, ch. 1237, § 2; G.L. 1956, § 28-14-21.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-14 - Payment of Wages › Section 28-14-22. - Duties of attorney general.

§ 28-14-22. Duties of attorney general.
It shall be mandatory upon the attorney general of this state to prosecute all civil and criminal cases which shall be referred by the director to the attorney general. It shall be the duty of the attorney general to prosecute actions, both civil and criminal, for those violations of this chapter that come to his or her knowledge and to independently enforce the provisions of this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1941, ch. 1069, § 6; G.L. 1956, § 28-14-22; P.L. 1986, ch. 198, § 18.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-14 - Payment of Wages › Section 28-14-23. - Assignment of wage claims to director — Prosecution of actions.

§ 28-14-23. Assignment of wage claims to director — Prosecution of actions.
The director shall have the power and authority to:
(1)
Take assignments of wage claims and rights of action for penalties as provided by §§ 28-14-17 and 28-14-19 without being bound by any of the technical rules with reference to the validity of the assignments;
(2)
Prosecute actions for the collection of the claims of persons who, in the judgment of the director, have claims which are valid and enforceable in the courts; and
(3)
Join various claimants in one preferred claim or lien, and in case of suit to join them in one cause of action.
History of Section.
P.L. 1941, ch. 1069, § 9; P.L. 1955, ch. 3588, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 28-14-23; P.L. 2022, ch. 234, art. 1, § 11, effective December 31, 2022.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-14 - Payment of Wages › Section 28-14-24. - Setoff of money owed by employee to employer.

§ 28-14-24. Setoff of money owed by employee to employer.
(a)
In any action for unpaid wages brought under the provisions of this chapter, the employer-debtor shall not deduct as a setoff or counterclaim:
(1)
Any money allegedly due the employer as compensation for damages caused to the employer’s property by the negligence of the employee;
(2)
Any money allegedly due the employer as rent; or
(3)
Any money allegedly owed to the employer by the employee;
(b)
Provided, that any employer granting the employee a loan or advance against future earnings or wages may deduct the loan as a setoff or counterclaim if evidenced by a statement in writing signed by the employee. Nothing in this section shall be construed to limit or restrict in any way any rights which the employer now has to recover, by a separate legal action, any money owed the employer by the employee.
History of Section.
P.L. 1941, ch. 1069, § 9A; P.L. 1942, ch. 1237, § 3; G.L. 1956, § 28-14-24.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-14 - Payment of Wages › Section 28-14-25. - Court costs.

§ 28-14-25. Court costs.
In all actions brought by the director as assignee under § 28-14-23, no court costs of any nature shall be required to be advanced nor shall any bond or other security be required from the director in connection with the action.
History of Section.
P.L. 1941, ch. 1069, § 10; G.L. 1956, § 28-14-25.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-14 - Payment of Wages › Section 28-14-26. - Service of process.

§ 28-14-26. Service of process.
Any deputy sheriff requested by the director to serve summons, writs, complaints, orders, including any garnishment papers and all necessary and legal papers, shall do so without requiring the director to advance the fees or furnish any security or bond.
History of Section.
P.L. 1941, ch. 1069, § 10; G.L. 1956, § 28-14-26; P.L. 2012, ch. 324, § 56.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-14 - Payment of Wages › Section 28-14-27. - Attachment of property.

§ 28-14-27. Attachment of property.
Whenever the director requires a deputy sheriff whose duty it is to seize property or levy on property in any attachment proceedings to satisfy any wage claim judgment to perform any duty, the officer shall do so without requiring the director to furnish any security or bond in the action, and the officer in carrying out the provisions of this section shall not be responsible in damages for any wrongful seizure made in good faith.
History of Section.
P.L. 1941, ch. 1069, § 10; G.L. 1956, § 28-14-27; P.L. 2012, ch. 324, § 56.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-14 - Payment of Wages › Section 28-14-28. - Garnishee’s fees.

§ 28-14-28. Garnishee’s fees.
Any garnishee defendant shall be required to appear and make answer in any action, as required by law, without having paid to him or her in advance garnishee’s fees, but garnishee’s fees shall be included as part of the taxable costs of the action.
History of Section.
P.L. 1941, ch. 1069, § 10; G.L. 1956, § 28-14-28.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-14 - Payment of Wages › Section 28-14-29. - Order of payment of fees and claims.

§ 28-14-29. Order of payment of fees and claims.
Out of any recovery on a judgment in a suit there shall be paid:
(1)
First, the garnishee’s and witness fees;
(2)
Second, the wage claims involved;
(3)
Third, the deputy sheriff’s fees; and
(4)
Fourth, the court costs.
History of Section.
P.L. 1941, ch. 1069, § 10; G.L. 1956, § 28-14-29; P.L. 2012, ch. 324, § 56.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-14 - Payment of Wages › Section 28-14-30. - Severability.

§ 28-14-30. Severability.
If any provision of this chapter, or its application to any person or circumstance, is held invalid, the remainder of the chapter and the application of the provision to other persons or circumstances shall not be affected by the invalidity.
History of Section.
P.L. 1941, ch. 1069, § 11; G.L. 1956, § 28-14-30.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-14 - Payment of Wages › Section 28-14-31. - Wages upon return from layoff.

§ 28-14-31. Wages upon return from layoff.
Whenever an employee who has worked for an employer for more than one year is separated from work by a “layoff,” the employer shall offer to pay to the employee the same wages earned at the time of the separation upon the employee’s later return to work at the same or similar job.
History of Section.
P.L. 1988, ch. 128, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-14.1 - Tip Protection › Section 28-14.1-1. - Definitions.

§ 28-14.1-1. Definitions.
Whenever used in this chapter:
(1)
“Employer” means any individual, firm, partnership, association, joint stock company, trust, corporation, receiver, or other like officer appointed by a court of this state, and any agent or officer of any of the previously mentioned classes, employing any person in this state.
(2)
“Service charge” means a compulsory fee charged by an employer to a patron.
(3)
“Tip” means voluntary monetary compensation received directly or indirectly by the employee for services rendered.
(4)
“Tipped employee” means any employee engaged in an occupation in which the employee customarily and regularly receives more than thirty dollars ($30.00) a month in tips.
History of Section.
P.L. 2022, ch. 245, § 1, effective June 28, 2022; P.L. 2022, ch. 246, § 1, effective June 28, 2022.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-14.1 - Tip Protection › Section 28-14.1-2. - Restrictions on tip pooling.

§ 28-14.1-2. Restrictions on tip pooling.
(a)
A tip is the sole property of the tipped employee. Any arrangement between the employer and the tipped employee whereby any part of the tip received becomes the property of the employer is prohibited.
(b)
The requirement that an employee must retain all tips does not preclude a valid tip pooling or sharing arrangement among employees who customarily and regularly receive tips.
(1)
An employer must notify its employees of any required tip pool contribution amount, may only take a tip credit for the amount of tips each employee ultimately receives, and may not retain any of the employees’ tips for any other purpose, except as provided in § 28-14.1-4.
(2)
An employer that pays the full minimum wage and takes no tip credit may allow employees who are not tipped employees to participate in the tip pool. This shall not apply to exempt employees as defined by section 13(a)(1) of the Fair Labor Standards Act as defined by regulations 29 C.F.R. Part 541.
History of Section.
P.L. 2022, ch. 245, § 1, effective June 28, 2022; P.L. 2022, ch. 246, § 1, effective June 28, 2022.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-14.1 - Tip Protection › Section 28-14.1-3. - Service charges.

§ 28-14.1-3. Service charges.
Service charges are part of the employer’s gross receipts. Sums distributed to employees from service charges cannot be counted as tips received, but may be used to satisfy the employer’s minimum wage and overtime requirements pursuant to the provisions of §§ 28-12-4.1 and 28-12-5. If an employee receives tips in addition to the compulsory service charge, those tips may be considered in determining whether the employee is a tipped employee and in the application of the tip credit.
History of Section.
P.L. 2022, ch. 245, § 1, effective June 28, 2022; P.L. 2022, ch. 246, § 1, effective June 28, 2022.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-14.1 - Tip Protection › Section 28-14.1-4. - Credit cards.

§ 28-14.1-4. Credit cards.
Where tips are charged on a credit card and the employer must pay the credit card company a percentage on each sale, the employer may deduct that percentage from the employee’s tips, provided that the employer notifies the employee of the deduction. This charge on the tip may not reduce the employee’s wage below the required minimum wage. The amount due the employee must be paid no later than the regular pay day and may not be held while the employer is awaiting reimbursement from the credit card company.
History of Section.
P.L. 2022, ch. 245, § 1, effective June 28, 2022; P.L. 2022, ch. 246, § 1, effective June 28, 2022.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-15 - Assignment of Future Wages › Section 28-15-1. - “Assignment” defined.

§ 28-15-1. “Assignment” defined.
“Assignment,” as used in this chapter, includes every instrument purporting to transfer an interest in or an authority to collect the future earnings of any person.
History of Section.
P.L. 1908, ch. 1551, § 5; G.L. 1909, ch. 260, § 5; G.L. 1923, ch. 304, § 5; G.L. 1938, ch. 292, § 5; G.L. 1956, § 28-15-1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-15 - Assignment of Future Wages › Section 28-15-2. - Maximum period of assignment — Form and contents.

§ 28-15-2. Maximum period of assignment — Form and contents.
No assignment of future earnings or wages shall be valid:
(1)
For a period exceeding one year from the date of the assignment;
(2)
Unless made to secure a debt contracted prior to or simultaneously with the execution of the assignment;
(3)
Unless executed in writing in the standard form set forth in § 28-15-3 and signed by the assignor in person and not by attorney; and
(4)
Unless the assignment truly states the date of its execution, the money or the money value of goods actually furnished by the assignee and the rate of interest, if any, to be paid on it.
History of Section.
P.L. 1908, ch. 1551, § 1; G.L. 1909, ch. 260, § 1; G.L. 1923, ch. 304, § 1; G.L. 1938, ch. 292, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 28-15-2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-15 - Assignment of Future Wages › Section 28-15-3. - Standard form.

§ 28-15-3. Standard form.
The standard form of assignment required by this chapter shall be as follows:
Know All Men and Women by These Presents;
That I, __________ in county of __________ for a valuable consideration, to me paid by __________ of __________ the receipt whereof I do hereby acknowledge, do hereby assign and transfer to said __________ all claims and demands (which I now have, and all) which within a period of ________ from the date hereof I may and shall have against my present employer and against any person whose employ I shall hereafter enter (for all sums of money due and) for all sums of money and demands which, at any time within said period, may and shall become due to me, for services as __________
To have and to hold the same to the said __________ , his or her executors, administrators and assigns, to secure a debt
(1) Of ______ dollars (with interest thereon from __________ at the rate of ____ percent per annum), for money (or goods) actually furnished by the assignee amounting to ______ dollars,
(2) Contracted prior to the execution of this assignment (or contracted simultaneously with the execution of this assignment).
In witness whereof I have set my hand this day of _________________________________________
Signed and delivered in presence of: _________________________________________
History of Section.
P.L. 1908, ch. 1551, § 6; G.L. 1909, ch. 260, § 6; G.L. 1923, ch. 304, § 6; G.L. 1938, ch. 292, § 6; G.L. 1956, § 28-15-3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-15 - Assignment of Future Wages › Section 28-15-4. - Copy delivered to assignor.

§ 28-15-4. Copy delivered to assignor.
No assignment of future earnings or wages shall be valid unless a copy of it is delivered to the assignor at the date of the execution of the assignment.
History of Section.
P.L. 1908, ch. 1551, § 2; G.L. 1909, ch. 260, § 2; G.L. 1923, ch. 304, § 2; G.L. 1938, ch. 292, § 2; G.L. 1956, § 28-15-4.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-15 - Assignment of Future Wages › Section 28-15-5. - Recording of assignments.

§ 28-15-5. Recording of assignments.
No assignment of future earnings or wages shall be valid, except as between the parties to the assignment, unless the assignment is recorded within five (5) days after it is signed by the assignor in a book to be kept for that purpose in the office of the recorder of deeds, if there is one, otherwise in the office of the clerk of the town or city in which the assignor resides, if a resident of this state, or in the town or city in which he or she is employed if not a resident of this state.
History of Section.
P.L. 1908, ch. 1551, § 3; G.L. 1909, ch. 260, § 3; G.L. 1923, ch. 304, § 3; G.L. 1938, ch. 292, § 3; G.L. 1956, § 28-15-5.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-15 - Assignment of Future Wages › Section 28-15-6. - Copy of assignment delivered to employer.

§ 28-15-6. Copy of assignment delivered to employer.
No assignment of future earnings or wages shall be in any way binding upon the employer of the assignor until a copy of the assignment and account, which shall conform to the requirements stated in this section, has been delivered to the employer. The account shall be in writing and shall contain a statement of the balance due and of the sums of money received by the assignee, together with the date of every payment, and a statement showing whether the payment is a charge for making or securing the loan or otherwise.
History of Section.
P.L. 1908, ch. 1551, § 4; G.L. 1909, ch. 260, § 4; G.L. 1923, ch. 304, § 4; G.L. 1938, ch. 292, § 4; G.L. 1956, § 28-15-6.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-15 - Assignment of Future Wages › Section 28-15-7. - Effect of assignment.

§ 28-15-7. Effect of assignment.
An assignment of future earnings or wages made in accordance with all of the provisions of this chapter shall bind all wages earned by the assignor within the period named in the assignment.
History of Section.
P.L. 1908, ch. 1551, § 7; G.L. 1909, ch. 260, § 7; G.L. 1923, ch. 304, § 7; G.L. 1938, ch. 292, § 7; G.L. 1956, § 28-15-7.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-15 - Assignment of Future Wages › Section 28-15-8. - Assignments under small loan law.

§ 28-15-8. Assignments under small loan law.
All assignments of wages made in accordance with the provisions of chapter 25 of title 19 for the purpose of securing any loan made in accordance with the provisions of that chapter, shall be exempt from provisions of this chapter that are inconsistent with the provisions of chapter 25 of title 19.
History of Section.
P.L. 1923, ch. 427, § 23; P.L. 1923, ch. 427, § 25; P.L. 1937, ch. 2496, § 1; G.L. 1938, ch. 292, § 8; G.L. 1956, § 28-15-8.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-15 - Assignment of Future Wages › Section 28-15-9. - Wage deductions exempt.

§ 28-15-9. Wage deductions exempt.
(a)
None of the sections of this chapter shall be applicable to, control, or prohibit the deduction from wages of an employee by an employer in accordance with the terms of a collective bargaining agreement entered into with the employer by a labor organization that is the authorized collective bargaining agent of a majority of the employees in a bargaining unit of employees in which the employee is employed; provided, that the amount deducted from the wages of the employee is to be: (1) Used for the purpose of defraying the costs of legal services, counsel fees, or contribution to a prepaid legal services plan for those employees, their families, and their dependents; or (2) Paid to pension, welfare, vacation, or annuity plans or an annuity plan or an insurance plan for accident, health, disability, or life coverage or similar plans, complete provisions for which are contained in a collective bargaining agreement or a supplemental agreement as provided in the agreement between the employer and the authorized bargaining agent of the employees and the plans are for the benefit of employees, their dependents, and beneficiaries in the bargaining unit, including full-time employees of the labor organization, provided it shall make the same payment for its employees to the plan or plans.
(b)
None of the sections of this chapter shall be applicable to, control, or prohibit the deduction from wages of an employee by an employer in accordance with a written request made by the individual employee of:
(1)
Trade union or craft dues or other obligations imposed by a collective bargaining contract;
(2)
Subscriptions to a nonprofit hospital service corporation or nonprofit medical and/or surgical service corporation;
(3)
Contributions to or for the use of a religious, charitable, scientific, literary, or educational corporation, trust, community chest, fund, or foundation;
(4)
Payments for the purpose of purchasing obligations of the United States or stock of a corporation pursuant to an employee stock purchase plan;
(5)
Contributions to a pension plan in which the employee is a participant not required by a collective bargaining agreement entered into between the authorized collective bargaining representative of an employee and his or her employer;
(6)
Contributions to or for insurance or under an insurance plan for accident, health, or life coverage not required by a collective bargaining agreement entered into between the authorized collective bargaining representative of an employee and his or her employer;
(7)
Amounts to be credited to a share, deposit, or loan account in any credit union; or
(8)
Contributions, subscriptions, or payments of a similar nature not connected with past or present indebtedness.
History of Section.
G.L. 1938, ch. 292, § 9; P.L. 1947, ch. 1944, § 1; P.L. 1950, ch. 2631, § 1; P.L. 1954, ch. 3361, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 28-15-9; P.L. 1972, ch. 206, § 2; P.L. 1974, ch. 189, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-16 - Enforcement of Wage and Hour Laws › Section 28-16-1. - Power of department to assist in enforcement of federal law.

§ 28-16-1. Power of department to assist in enforcement of federal law.
The Rhode Island department of labor and training is empowered to assist and cooperate with the administrator of the wage and hour and public contracts division and the director of the bureau of labor standards of the United States Department of Labor, in the administration and the enforcement within this state of the provisions of the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938, 29 U.S.C. § 201 et seq. The department is further authorized to accept payment and/or reimbursement for its services as provided by that act. Assistance and cooperation may include the designation by the director of the department of labor and training of state employees to investigate federal and state violations of wage, hour, and child labor provisions and regulations and may provide for joint inspection.
History of Section.
P.L. 1940, ch. 895, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 28-16-1; P.L. 2022, ch. 234, art. 1, § 12, effective December 31, 2022.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-16 - Enforcement of Wage and Hour Laws › Section 28-16-2. - Agreements with federal agencies.

§ 28-16-2. Agreements with federal agencies.
The department of labor and training is authorized to enter into agreements with the Wage and Hour and Public Contracts Divisions and/or the Bureau of Labor Standards of the United States Department of Labor for assistance and cooperation, and is authorized, from time to time, to amend the agreements; provided, that any agreement or amendment of it shall be subject to the regulations of the administrator of the Wage and Hour and Public Contracts Divisions and/or the director of the Bureau of Labor Standards of the United States Department of Labor and shall be subject to the approval of the governor.
History of Section.
P.L. 1940, ch. 895, § 2; G.L. 1956, § 28-16-2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-16 - Enforcement of Wage and Hour Laws › Section 28-16-3. - Receipt and disbursement of federal funds — State appropriations.

§ 28-16-3. Receipt and disbursement of federal funds — State appropriations.
The general treasurer shall receive and provide for the proper custody of all funds paid to the state from the federal treasury under the provisions of the Fair Labor Standards Act, 29 U.S.C. § 201 et seq., and shall disburse those funds upon orders drawn by the controller upon receipt by him or her of proper vouchers approved by the director of the department of labor and training. Nothing in this chapter shall be construed as authorizing the department of labor and training to spend in excess of its appropriation from state funds except to the extent that the excess may be paid and/or the appropriation may be reimbursed by the United States Department of Labor through the federal treasury; and, provided, that the payment and request for reimbursement shall be approved by the director of administration.
History of Section.
P.L. 1940, ch. 895, § 3; impl. am. P.L. 1951, ch. 2727, art. 1, § 3; G.L. 1956, § 28-16-3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-17 - Employees’ Trusts › Section 28-17-1. - Definitions.

§ 28-17-1. Definitions.
(a)
“Employees’ trust” as used in this chapter means any trust created by an employer for the maintenance and regulation of an apprentice training program, and any trust created as part of a stock bonus plan, pension plan, disability or death benefit plan, or profit sharing plan for the exclusive benefit of some or all of his or her employees or their beneficiaries, to which contributions are made by the employer or employees or both, for the purpose of distributing in accordance with the plan to those employees or their beneficiaries the earnings or the principal, or both earnings and principal, of the trust fund, provided that it is impossible under the trust instrument at any time prior to the satisfaction of all liabilities with respect to employees and their beneficiaries under the trust for any part of the corpus or income to be at any time used for or diverted to purposes other than for the exclusive benefit of those employees or their beneficiaries.
(b)
“Employer” as used in this chapter includes a group of employers or any combination of employers and a labor union creating a combined plan or trust for the benefit of their apprentices, employees, or the beneficiaries of employees.
History of Section.
P.L. 1943, ch. 1346, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 28-17-1; P.L. 1963, ch. 192, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-17 - Employees’ Trusts › Section 28-17-2. - Accumulation of income — Perpetuities — Suspension of power of alienation.

§ 28-17-2. Accumulation of income — Perpetuities — Suspension of power of alienation.
The income arising from any personal property held in any employees’ trust as defined in § 28-17-1 may be permitted to accumulate in accordance with the terms of the trust and the plan to which the trust forms a part for any time that may be necessary to accomplish the purposes for which the trust has been created. An employees’ trust shall not be deemed to be invalid as violating the rule against perpetuities or any law or rule against perpetuities or the suspension of the power of alienation of title to property, but may continue for any time that may be necessary to accomplish the purposes for which it has been created.
History of Section.
P.L. 1943, ch. 1346, § 2; G.L. 1956, § 28-17-2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-17 - Employees’ Trusts › Section 28-17-3. - Tax exemption.

§ 28-17-3. Tax exemption.
The intangible personal property held in any employees’ trust as defined in § 28-17-1 shall be exempt from all sales and use taxes and all other state and local taxation so long as it is held in trust and used for the purposes of the trust and of the plan of which the trust forms a part. The right of any employee or beneficiary under the plan to any pension, annuity, or retirement allowance or to the return of contributions, and any other benefit or right accrued or accruing to any person under the terms of the trust or plan shall be exempt from all local taxation and state taxation except for the personal income tax imposed under the provisions of chapter 30 of title 44.
History of Section.
P.L. 1943, ch. 1346, § 3; G.L. 1956, § 28-17-3; P.L. 1963, ch. 192, § 1; P.L. 1967, ch. 196, § 1; P.L. 1985, ch. 496, art. 2, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-17 - Employees’ Trusts › Section 28-17-4. - Immunity from attachment, process, or assignment.

§ 28-17-4. Immunity from attachment, process, or assignment.
The interest of any person in any employees’ trust as defined in § 28-17-1 and any pension derivable from that trust shall not be subject to trustee process or liable to attachment on any writ, original, mesne, or judicial, or be taken on execution or any process, legal or equitable; and no assignment of any interest or pension shall be valid.
History of Section.
P.L. 1943, ch. 1346, § 4; G.L. 1956, § 28-17-4.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-18 - Industrial Homework › Section 28-18-1. - Purpose of chapter.

§ 28-18-1. Purpose of chapter.
The employment of workers in industry in the state of Rhode Island under conditions resulting in unreasonably low wages and conditions injurious to their health and general welfare is a matter of grave and vital public concern. Any conditions of employment especially fostering such working conditions are therefore destructive of purposes already accepted as sound public policy by the general assembly and should be brought into conformity with that policy. Uncontrolled continuance of homework is such a condition; here wages are notoriously lower and working conditions endanger the health of the worker; the protection of factory industries, which must operate in competition with homework and of the workers employed in homeworking and of the public interest of the community at large in their health and well being, require strict control and gradual elimination of industrial homework.
History of Section.
P.L. 1936, ch. 2328, § 1; G.L. 1938, ch. 183, § 1; P.L. 1946, ch. 1784, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 28-18-1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-18 - Industrial Homework › Section 28-18-2. - Definitions.

§ 28-18-2. Definitions.
The following terms as used in this chapter have the following meanings:
(1)
“Director” means the director of labor and training.
(2)
“Employer” means any person who either directly or through an employee, agent, subcontractor, independent contractor, or any other person delivers, distributes, supplies, or furnishes, or causes to be delivered, distributed, supplied, or furnished, to another person any materials to be processed in a home, including the home of the employer, and that are subsequently to be returned to him or her or to some person acting on his or her behalf, not for the personal use of himself or herself or of a member of his or her family.
(3)
“Home” means any dwelling house, tenement house, rooming house, apartment house, or other residential building or any part of these.
(4)
“Industrial homework” means the processing in a home, including the home of the employer in whole or in part, of material furnished by an employer of any article or articles to be returned to the employer.
(5)
“Industrial homeworker” means any person who processes in a home, in whole or in part, out of material furnished by an employer for industrial homework any article or articles to be returned to the employer directly or indirectly.
(6)
“Person” means an individual, corporation, partnership, association, firm, trustee, receiver, and assignee for the benefit of creditors or corporations, except charitable organizations.
(7)
“Processing” means manufacturing, finishing, repairing, preparing, altering, packing, wrapping, or handling any material.
History of Section.
P.L. 1936, ch. 2328, § 2; G.L. 1938, ch. 293, § 2; P.L. 1948, ch. 2110, §§ 1, 2; G.L. 1956, § 28-18-2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-18 - Industrial Homework › Section 28-18-3. - Issuance of homework licenses.

§ 28-18-3. Issuance of homework licenses.
(a)
The distribution of industrial homework as defined in § 28-18-2(4) is prohibited except where licenses and certificates have been obtained from the director of labor and training.
(b)
The director of labor and training may issue a license as provided in this chapter only if the employer maintains an establishment in this state in which persons are employed on operations the same as or similar to the proposed homework operations and if the homeworker is paid at least the same rate as that paid to workers on the same or similar operations in the establishment.
(c)
The director of labor and training shall issue licenses to employers and certificates permitting industrial homework to industrial homeworkers who have reached the age of fifty (50) years or who are physically disabled and not able to go to the employer’s place of business to work.
(d)
The director of labor and training shall issue licenses to employers and certificates to industrial homeworkers regardless of whether the homeworkers are physically disabled or have reached the age of fifty (50) years, in any industry where homework is customary in Rhode Island, permitting the industrial homework.
(e)
The director of labor and training shall not issue the licenses in any cases or industries:
(1)
Where it would unduly jeopardize the factory workers in the industry both as to wages and working conditions;
(2)
It would unduly injure the health and welfare of the industrial homeworker;
(3)
It would unduly jeopardize the public health and safety to have those industrial homework products distributed; or
(4)
In any industry where experience has proven that homework in that industry is not susceptible of effective regulation.
History of Section.
P.L. 1936, ch. 2328, § 3; G.L. 1938, ch. 293, § 3; P.L. 1948, ch. 2110, § 3; G.L. 1956, § 28-18-3; P.L. 1999, ch. 83, § 63; P.L. 1999, ch. 130, § 63.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-18 - Industrial Homework › Section 28-18-4. - Revocation or suspension of license or certificate.

§ 28-18-4. Revocation or suspension of license or certificate.
The director of labor and training may revoke or suspend the license of any employer or the certificate of any industrial homeworker for a violation by that employer or industrial homeworker of the terms of his or her license or certificate or any provisions of this chapter, or of any regulation made by the director of labor and training, or for noncompliance with an order issued by him or her within the time specified in the order. No license or certificate shall be refused, revoked, or suspended unless the holder previously had reasonable notice and the opportunity to be heard.
History of Section.
P.L. 1936, ch. 2328, § 3; G.L. 1938, ch. 293, § 3; G.L. 1956, § 28-18-4.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-18 - Industrial Homework › Section 28-18-5. - Employer’s license and renewal fees.

§ 28-18-5. Employer’s license and renewal fees.
(a)
A fee of three hundred dollars ($300) shall be paid to the director of labor and training on behalf of the state of Rhode Island for the original issuance of an employer’s license.
(b)
For each annual renewal of an employer’s license, the employer shall pay to the director of labor and training a fee of:
(1)
Forty dollars ($40.00) where the employer is delivering or causing to be delivered industrial homework to five (5) persons or less;
(2)
Eighty dollars ($80.00) where the employer is delivering or causing to be delivered industrial homework to from five (5) to twenty (20) persons;
(3)
One hundred fifty dollars ($150) where an employer is delivering or causing to be delivered industrial homework to from twenty (20) to one hundred (100) persons;
(4)
Three hundred dollars ($300) where an employer is delivering or causing to be delivered industrial homework to more than one hundred (100) persons.
History of Section.
P.L. 1936, ch. 2328, § 3; G.L. 1938, ch. 293, § 3; P.L. 1945, ch. 1608, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 28-18-5; P.L. 1960, ch. 74, § 12.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-18 - Industrial Homework › Section 28-18-5.1. - Contractor’s permit required.

§ 28-18-5.1. Contractor’s permit required.
No person in any industry where experience has proven that homework in the industry is not susceptible of effective regulations shall deliver, distribute, supply, or furnish any materials to be processed by another person unless that person has been issued a contractor’s permit by the director of labor and training.
History of Section.
P.L. 1979, ch. 284, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-18 - Industrial Homework › Section 28-18-5.2. - Permit required to process goods or materials.

§ 28-18-5.2. Permit required to process goods or materials.
No person may perform any process on goods or material owned by another unless the person has been issued a permit by the director of labor and training.
History of Section.
P.L. 1979, ch. 284, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 28 - Labor and Labor Relations › Chapter 28-18 - Industrial Homework › Section 28-18-5.3. - Location of contract shop.

§ 28-18-5.3. Location of contract shop.
No contract shop may be operated in any home as defined in § 28-18-2(3).
History of Section.
P.L. 1979, ch. 284, § 1.