reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-90 - Responsible Recycling, Reuse and Disposal of Mattresses › Section 23-90-1. - Purpose.

§ 23-90-1. Purpose.
The purposes of this chapter are:
(1)
To establish a system for the collection, recycling, and reuse for discarded mattresses in Rhode Island.
(2)
To develop a comprehensive strategy, with the participation of state agencies, producers, retailers, and consumers for waste prevention and reduction of discarded mattresses in the state, which addresses the collection, recycling and reuse of mattresses in a safe and environmentally sound manner;
(3)
To promote the development of infrastructure for the reuse and recycling of discarded mattresses;
(4)
To minimize costs incurred by Rhode Island municipalities to collect, dispose of, or recycle mattresses discarded by residents; and
(5)
To eliminate waste generated in the state from the disposal of discarded mattresses from landfill and other forms of disposal.
History of Section.
P.L. 2013, ch. 281, § 1; P.L. 2013, ch. 423, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-90 - Responsible Recycling, Reuse and Disposal of Mattresses › Section 23-90-2. - Findings.

§ 23-90-2. Findings.
The general assembly hereby finds and declares that:
(1)
It is in the best interest of this state for providers of mattresses sold in Rhode Island to take responsibility for reducing the environmental and financial impacts of a mattress over its life cycle, from design to management after the end of a mattress’s useful life;
(2)
It is in the best interest of this state to reduce illegal dumping of discarded mattresses and determine a process for minimizing costs incurred by Rhode Island’s cities and towns for the management of discarded mattresses; and
(3)
It is in the best interest of this state for producers to develop a statewide product stewardship system that serves urban and rural areas in Rhode Island and provides cost-effective, convenient opportunities for the collection, transportation, recovery and safe management of discarded products.
History of Section.
P.L. 2013, ch. 281, § 1; P.L. 2013, ch. 423, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-90 - Responsible Recycling, Reuse and Disposal of Mattresses › Section 23-90-4. - Mattress stewardship council established.

§ 23-90-4. Mattress stewardship council established.
(a)
On or before July 1, 2015, each producer shall join the council and such council shall submit a plan, for the corporation director’s approval, to establish a statewide mattress stewardship program, as described in this section. Any retailer may be a member of such council. Such mattress stewardship program shall, to the extent it is technologically feasible and economically practical:
(1)
Minimize public sector involvement in the management of discarded mattresses;
(2)
Provide for the convenient and accessible statewide collection of discarded mattresses from any person in the state with a discarded mattress that was discarded in the state, including from participating covered entities that accumulated and segregated a minimum of fifty (50) discarded mattresses for collection at one time, or a minimum of thirty (30) discarded mattresses for collection at one time in the case of participating municipal transfer stations;
(3)
Provide for council-financed recycling and disposal of discarded mattresses;
(4)
Provide suitable storage containers at permitted municipal transfer stations, municipal government property or other solid waste management facilities for segregated, discarded mattresses, or make other mutually agreeable storage and transportation agreements at no cost to such municipality provided the municipal transfer station, municipal government property or other solid waste management facilities make space available for such purpose and imposes no fee for placement of such storage container on its premises;
(5)
Include a uniform mattress stewardship fee that is sufficient to cover the costs of operating and administering the program; and
(6)
Establish a financial incentive that provides for the payment of a monetary sum, established by the council, to promote the recovery of mattresses.
(b)
The council shall be a nonprofit organization with a fee structure that covers, but does not exceed, the costs of developing the plan and operating and administering the program in accordance with the requirements of this chapter, and maintaining a financial reserve sufficient to operate the program over a multi-year period of time in a fiscally prudent and responsible manner. The council shall maintain all records relating to the program for a period of not less than three (3) years.
(c)
Pursuant to the program, recycling shall be preferred over any other disposal method to the extent that recycling is technologically feasible and economically practical.
(d)
The council shall enter into an agreement with the corporation to reimburse for reasonable costs directly related to administering the program but not to exceed the cost of two (2) full time equivalent employees.
History of Section.
P.L. 2013, ch. 281, § 1; P.L. 2013, ch. 423, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-90 - Responsible Recycling, Reuse and Disposal of Mattresses › Section 23-90-6. - Responsibilities of the Rhode Island resource recovery corporation.

§ 23-90-6. Responsibilities of the Rhode Island resource recovery corporation.
(a)
The corporation shall review for approval the mattress stewardship plan of the council.
(b)
The corporation shall maintain on its website information on collection opportunities for mattresses, including collection site locations. The information must be made available in a printable format for retailers and consumers.
(c)
Not later than the implementation date of the mattress stewardship program, the corporation shall list the names of participating producers covered by the program and the cost of the approved mattress stewardship fee on its website.
(d)
The corporation shall approve the mattress stewardship fee to be applied by the council to mattresses pursuant to this chapter.
(e)
Pursuant to § 23-90-11, the corporation shall report biennially to the general assembly on the operation of the statewide system for collection, transportation and recycling of mattresses.
History of Section.
P.L. 2013, ch. 281, § 1; P.L. 2013, ch. 423, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-90 - Responsible Recycling, Reuse and Disposal of Mattresses › Section 23-90-7. - Regulations.

§ 23-90-7. Regulations.
The corporation is hereby authorized to promulgate additional rules and regulations pursuant to the administrative procedures act, chapter 35 of title 42, to implement the provisions of this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 2013, ch. 281, § 1; P.L. 2013, ch. 423, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-90 - Responsible Recycling, Reuse and Disposal of Mattresses › Section 23-90-8. - Immunity.

§ 23-90-8. Immunity.
Each producer, retailer and the council shall be immune from liability for any claim of a violation of antitrust law, to the extent such producer or council is exercising authority pursuant to the provisions of this chapter, including but not limited to:
(1)
The creation, implementation or management of a plan pursuant to § 23-90-5, and the types or quantities of used mattresses recycled or otherwise managed pursuant to a plan;
(2)
The cost and structure of a plan; and
(3)
The establishment, administration, collection or disbursement of the mattress stewardship fee associated with funding the implementation of the plan.
History of Section.
P.L. 2013, ch. 281, § 1; P.L. 2013, ch. 423, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-90 - Responsible Recycling, Reuse and Disposal of Mattresses › Section 23-90-9. - Violations.

§ 23-90-9. Violations.
A violation of any of the provisions of this chapter or any rule or regulation promulgated pursuant to § 23-90-7 shall be punishable by a civil penalty not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000). In the case of a second and any subsequent violation, the civil penalty shall not exceed five thousand dollars ($5,000) for each violation.
History of Section.
P.L. 2013, ch. 281, § 1; P.L. 2013, ch. 423, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-90 - Responsible Recycling, Reuse and Disposal of Mattresses › Section 23-90-10. - Collaboration.

§ 23-90-10. Collaboration.
In the event that another state implements a mattress recycling program, the council may collaborate with such state to conserve efforts and resources used in carrying out the mattress stewardship program, provided such collaboration is consistent with the requirements of this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 2013, ch. 281, § 1; P.L. 2013, ch. 423, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-90 - Responsible Recycling, Reuse and Disposal of Mattresses › Section 23-90-11. - Report to the General Assembly.

§ 23-90-11. Report to the General Assembly.
Not later than three (3) years after the approval of the plan pursuant to § 23-90-5 of this chapter, the corporation director shall submit a report to the general assembly. Such report shall provide an evaluation of the mattress stewardship program.
History of Section.
P.L. 2013, ch. 281, § 1; P.L. 2013, ch. 423, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-91 - Service Member Licensure › Section 23-91-1. - Service member licensure.

§ 23-91-1. Service member licensure.
(a)
The director and each member of the examining and licensing boards shall, upon presentation of satisfactory evidence by an applicant for certification or licensure, accept education, training, or service completed by an individual as a member of the Armed Forces or Reserves of the United States, the National Guard of any state, the Military Reserves of any state, or the Naval Militia of any state toward the qualifications to receive the license or certification. The director and each appropriate examining and licensing board shall promulgate rules to implement this section.
(b)
Notwithstanding any other law to the contrary, each health related board shall establish a procedure to expedite the issuance of a license, certification or permit to perform professional services regulated by each such board to a person who is certified or licensed in another state to perform professional services in a state other than Rhode Island. The procedure shall include:
(1)
Issuing the person a license, certificate or permit, if, in the opinion of the board, the requirements for certification or licensure of such other state are substantially equivalent to that required in this state; or
(2)
Developing a method to authorize the person to perform professional services regulated by the board in this state by issuing the person a temporary permit for a limited period of time to allow the person to perform professional services while completing any specific requirements that may be required in this state that were not required in the state in which the person was licensed or certified.
History of Section.
P.L. 2013, ch. 287, § 2; P.L. 2013, ch. 386, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-92 - Military Spouse Licensure › Section 23-92-1. - Military spouse licensure.

§ 23-92-1. Military spouse licensure.
(a)
Each health related board shall establish a procedure to expedite the issuance of a license, certification or permit to perform professional services regulated by each such board to a person:
(1)
Who is certified or licensed in another state to perform professional services in a state other than Rhode Island;
(2)
Whose spouse is a member of the armed forces of the United States;
(3)
Whose spouse is the subject of a military transfer to Rhode Island; and
(4)
Who left employment to accompany the person’s spouse to Rhode Island.
(b)
The procedure shall include:
(1)
Issuing the person a license, certificate or permit, if, in the opinion of the board, the requirements for certification or licensure of such other state are substantially equivalent to that required in this state; or
(2)
Developing a method to authorize the person to perform professional services regulated by the board in this state by issuing the person a temporary permit for a limited period of time to allow the person to perform professional services while completing any specific requirements that may be required in this state that were not required in the state in which the person was licensed or certified.
History of Section.
P.L. 2013, ch. 287, § 4; P.L. 2013, ch. 386, § 4.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-93 - Rhode Island Access to Medical Technology Innovation Act › Section 23-93-1. - Domestic medical tourism.

§ 23-93-1. Domestic medical tourism.
For purposes of this chapter, “Domestic Medical Tourism” means the practice of patients traveling to states other than their residence for the provision of healthcare services.
History of Section.
P.L. 2014, ch. 267, § 1; P.L. 2014, ch. 316, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-93 - Rhode Island Access to Medical Technology Innovation Act › Section 23-93-2. - Exemption for domestic medical tourism.

§ 23-93-2. Exemption for domestic medical tourism.
(a)
Any healthcare facility located in the state of Rhode Island specializing in domestic medical tourism, and having more than fifty percent (50%) of its patients residing outside of the state; or, until July 1, 2015, any in-state hospital licensed under chapter 17 of title 23; or in-state healthcare facility under common ownership with an in-state hospital licensed under chapter 17 of title 23, shall be exempt from the provisions of chapter 15 of title 23; provided, however, that such healthcare facility must comply with all other applicable laws and regulations governing healthcare facilities. Any applicant not compliant shall have thirty (30) days to comply with this section and any applicable regulations governing this section.
(b)
Any healthcare facility described in subsection (a) shall, on a biennial basis, certify to the department that more than fifty percent (50%) of its patients reside outside of the state.
(c)
Any healthcare facility exempt under subsection (a) that fails to certify under subsection (b), or is otherwise found by the department to have not established that more than fifty percent (50%) of its patients currently reside outside of the state, shall be required to apply for a certificate of need during the next review cycle established by the health services council.
History of Section.
P.L. 2014, ch. 267, § 1; P.L. 2014, ch. 316, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-93 - Rhode Island Access to Medical Technology Innovation Act › Section 23-93-3. - Exemption for multi-practice facilities.

§ 23-93-3. Exemption for multi-practice facilities.
Notwithstanding the requirements of any other provisions of any general or public laws, the following circumstances shall not require a certificate of need review and approval by the state agency:
(1)
The merger of an existing, currently licensed multi-practice physician ambulatory surgery center or multi-practice podiatry ambulatory surgery center (as such terms are defined in § 23-17-2) with another such center; or
(2)
An existing, currently licensed multi-practice physician ambulatory surgery center or multi-practice podiatry ambulatory surgery center (as such terms are defined in § 23-17-2) expanding its operation to add an additional operating room in excess of two (2) operating rooms.
History of Section.
P.L. 2014, ch. 267, § 1; P.L. 2014, ch. 316, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-93 - Rhode Island Access to Medical Technology Innovation Act › Section 23-93-4. - Penalties for noncompliance.

§ 23-93-4. Penalties for noncompliance.
(a)
The department, after notice and opportunity for hearing to the applicant, is authorized to take corrective action in any case in which it finds that there has been failure by an applicant to comply with the requirements established under any approval granted pursuant to this chapter, including, without limitation, the imposition of monetary fines that may be statutorily permitted by virtue of individual healthcare facility licensing statutes.
(b)
The notice shall be effected by registered or certified mail or by personal service, setting forth the particular reasons for the proposed action and fixing a date not less than thirty (30) days from the date of the mailing or service, at which the applicant shall be given an opportunity for a prompt and fair hearing. On the basis of the hearing, or upon default of the applicant, the department shall make a determination specifying its findings of fact and conclusions. A copy of the determination shall be sent by registered or certified mail or served personally upon the applicant. The decision shall become final thirty (30) days after it is so mailed or served, unless the applicant, within such thirty-day (30) period, appeals the decision pursuant to § 42-35-15. The procedure governing hearings authorized by this section shall be in accordance with §§ 42-35-9 — 42-35-13 as stipulated in § 42-35-14(a). A full and complete record shall be kept of all proceedings and all testimony shall be reported but need not be transcribed unless the decision is appealed pursuant to § 42-35-15. A copy or copies of the transcript may be obtained by any interested party on payment of the cost of preparing the copy or copies.
(c)
Nothing in this section shall limit the director’s general or emergency powers under §§ 23-1-1, 23-17-8 or any other authority granted to the department under the general laws.
History of Section.
P.L. 2014, ch. 267, § 1; P.L. 2014, ch. 316, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-94 - Prevention of Conversion Therapy for Children › Section 23-94-1. - Short title.

§ 23-94-1. Short title.
This chapter shall be known and may be cited as the “Prevention of Conversion Therapy for Children Act.”
History of Section.
P.L. 2017, ch. 186, § 2; P.L. 2017, ch. 328, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-94 - Prevention of Conversion Therapy for Children › Section 23-94-2. - Definitions.

§ 23-94-2. Definitions.
As used in this chapter:
(1)
“Conversion therapy” means any practices or treatments that seek to change an individual’s sexual orientation or gender identity, including efforts to change behaviors or gender expressions or to eliminate or reduce sexual or romantic attractions or feelings toward individuals of the same gender. Conversion therapy shall not include counseling that provides assistance to a person undergoing gender transition, or counseling that provides acceptance, support, and understanding of a person or facilitates a person’s coping, social support, and identity exploration and development, including sexual-orientation-neutral interventions to prevent or address unlawful conduct or unsafe sexual practices, as long as such counseling does not seek to change an individual’s sexual orientation or gender identity.
(i)
“Conversion therapy” shall include any practice by any licensed professional that seeks or purports to impose change of an individual’s sexual orientation or gender identity, practices that attempt or purport to change behavioral expression of an individual’s sexual orientation or gender identity or attempt or purport to eliminate or reduce sexual or romantic attractions or feelings toward individuals of the same sex;
(ii)
“Conversion therapy” shall not include practices that:
(A)
Provide acceptance, support, and understanding of an individual’s sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression and the facilitation of an individual’s coping, social support, and identity exploration and development, including interventions to prevent or address unlawful conduct or unsafe sexual practices; or
(B)
Provide acceptance, support, or understanding of an individual’s gender expression or the facilitation of an individual’s coping, social support, and identity exploration and development.
(2)
“Department” means the Rhode Island department of health.
(3)
“Licensed professional” means any licensed medical, mental health, or human services professional licensed pursuant to title 5 including, but not limited to: any psychologist, psychiatrist, social worker, nurse, mental health professional, human services professional, under any provisions of the general law, rule or regulation to the contrary.
History of Section.
P.L. 2017, ch. 186, § 2; P.L. 2017, ch. 328, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-94 - Prevention of Conversion Therapy for Children › Section 23-94-3. - Conversion therapy efforts for minors prohibited — Violations and enforcement.

§ 23-94-3. Conversion therapy efforts for minors prohibited — Violations and enforcement.
(a)
No licensed professional shall advertise for or engage in conversion therapy efforts with or relating to a patient(s) under the age of eighteen (18).
(b)
Any conversion therapy practiced by a licensed professional, as defined in § 23-94-2, on a patient under the age of eighteen (18) shall be considered unprofessional conduct and shall subject them to discipline by the department, which discipline may include suspension and revocation of the professional’s license.
(c)
The department is hereby authorized to initiate proceedings for violations of this section.
(d)
The department shall promulgate rules in accordance with the provisions of this section. These rules and regulations shall include, but not be limited to, a clear distinction between conversion therapy and other types of medically or clinically recognized therapies and practices, including, but not limited to, those practices referenced in § 23-94-2(1)(ii).
History of Section.
P.L. 2017, ch. 186, § 2; P.L. 2017, ch. 328, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-94 - Prevention of Conversion Therapy for Children › Section 23-94-4. - Prohibition on state funding for conversion therapy.

§ 23-94-4. Prohibition on state funding for conversion therapy.
No state funds, nor any funds belonging to a municipality, agency, or political subdivision of this state, shall be expended for the purpose of conducting conversion therapy; referring a person for conversion therapy; health benefits coverage for conversion therapy; or a grant or contract with any entity that conducts conversion therapy or refers individuals for conversion therapy.
History of Section.
P.L. 2017, ch. 186, § 2; P.L. 2017, ch. 328, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-94 - Prevention of Conversion Therapy for Children › Section 23-94-5. - Severability.

§ 23-94-5. Severability.
If any provision of this chapter or of any rule or regulation made under this chapter, or its application to any person or circumstance is held invalid by a court of competent jurisdiction, the remainder of the chapter, rule, or regulation and the application of the provision to other persons or circumstances shall not be affected by this invalidity. The invalidity of any section or sections or parts of any section or sections shall not affect the validity of the remainder of the chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 2017, ch. 186, § 2; P.L. 2017, ch. 328, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-95 - Nondiscrimination in Access to Anatomical Gifts and Organ Transplants Act (Isaac’s Law) › Section 23-95-1. - Short title.

§ 23-95-1. Short title.
This chapter shall be known and may be cited as the “Nondiscrimination in Access to Anatomical Gifts and Organ Transplants Act (Isaac’s Law).”
History of Section.
P.L. 2021, ch. 109, § 2, effective June 30, 2021; P.L. 2021, ch. 133, § 2, effective June 30, 2021.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-95 - Nondiscrimination in Access to Anatomical Gifts and Organ Transplants Act (Isaac’s Law) › Section 23-95-2. - Legislative purpose.

§ 23-95-2. Legislative purpose.
It is the purpose of this chapter to prohibit discrimination against a potential organ transplant recipient based solely on a person’s physical or mental disability.
History of Section.
P.L. 2021, ch. 109, § 2, effective June 30, 2021; P.L. 2021, ch. 133, § 2, effective June 30, 2021.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-95 - Nondiscrimination in Access to Anatomical Gifts and Organ Transplants Act (Isaac’s Law) › Section 23-95-5. - Enforcement.

§ 23-95-5. Enforcement.
(a)
Whenever it appears that a covered entity has violated or is violating any of the provisions of this chapter, the affected individual may commence a civil action for injunctive and other equitable relief against the covered entity for purposes of enforcing compliance with this chapter. The action may be brought in the district court for the county where the affected individual resides or resided or was denied the organ transplant or referral.
(b)
In an action brought under this chapter, the court must give priority on its docket and expedited review, and may grant injunctive or other equitable relief, including:
(1)
Requiring auxiliary aids or services to be made available for a qualified recipient;
(2)
Requiring the modification of a policy, practice or procedure of a covered entity; or
(3)
Requiring facilities be made readily accessible to and usable by a qualified recipient.
(c)
Nothing in this chapter is intended to limit or replace available remedies under the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, as amended by the ADA Amendments Act of 2008 or any other applicable law.
(d)
This chapter does not create a right to compensatory or punitive damages against a covered entity.
History of Section.
P.L. 2021, ch. 109, § 2, effective June 30, 2021; P.L. 2021, ch. 133, § 2, effective June 30, 2021.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-95 - Nondiscrimination in Access to Anatomical Gifts and Organ Transplants Act (Isaac’s Law) › Section 23-95-6. - Insurance.

§ 23-95-6. Insurance.
(a)
As used in this section, the following words and terms shall have the following meanings:
(1)
“Covered person” means a policyholder, subscriber, enrollee, member, or individual covered by a health benefit plan.
(2)
“Health benefit plan” means a policy, contract, certificate, or agreement entered into, offered, or issued by a health insurer to provide, deliver, arrange for, pay for, or reimburse any of the costs of healthcare services. “Health benefit plan” shall not include a plan providing coverage for excepted benefits and short-term policies that have a term of less than twelve (12) months.
(3)
“Health insurer” means an entity subject to the insurance laws and regulations of this state, or subject to the jurisdiction of the Rhode Island health insurance commissioner, that contracts or offers to contract to provide, deliver, arrange for, pay for, or reimburse any of the costs of healthcare services, including through a health benefit plan as defined in this section, and shall include a sickness and accident insurance company, a health maintenance organization, a preferred provider organization, or any similar entity, or any other entity providing a plan of health insurance or health benefits.
(b)
A health insurer that provides coverage for anatomical gifts, organ transplants, or related treatment and services shall not:
(1)
Deny coverage to a covered person solely on the basis of the person’s disability;
(2)
Deny to a patient eligibility, or continued eligibility, to enroll or to renew coverage under the terms of the health benefit plan, solely for the purpose of avoiding the requirements of this section;
(3)
Penalize or otherwise reduce or limit the reimbursement of an attending provider, or provide monetary or nonmonetary incentives to an attending provider, to induce the provider to provide care to an insured or enrollee in a manner inconsistent with this section; or
(4)
Reduce or limit coverage benefits to a patient for the medical services or other services related to organ transplantation performed pursuant to this section as determined in consultation with the attending physician and patient.
(c)
In the case of a health benefit plan maintained pursuant to one or more collective bargaining agreements between employee representatives and one or more employers, any plan amendment made pursuant to a collective bargaining agreement relating to the plan that amends the plan solely to conform to any requirement imposed pursuant to this section shall not be treated as a termination of the collective bargaining agreement.
(d)
Nothing in this section shall be deemed to require a health insurer to provide coverage for a medically inappropriate organ transplant.
History of Section.
P.L. 2021, ch. 109, § 2, effective June 30, 2021; P.L. 2021, ch. 133, § 2, effective June 30, 2021.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-95 - Nondiscrimination in Access to Anatomical Gifts and Organ Transplants Act (Isaac’s Law) › Section 23-95-7. - Severability.

§ 23-95-7. Severability.
If any clause, sentence, paragraph, section, or part of this chapter shall be adjudged by any court of competent jurisdiction to be invalid, that judgment shall not affect, impair, or invalidate the remainder of the chapter but shall be confined in its operation to the clause, sentence, paragraph, section, or part directly involved in the controversy in which that judgment shall have been rendered.
History of Section.
P.L. 2021, ch. 109, § 2, effective June 30, 2021; P.L. 2021, ch. 133, § 2, effective June 30, 2021.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-96 - Prohibited Release of Balloons › Section 23-96-1. - Prohibited practices.

§ 23-96-1. Prohibited practices.
(a)
No person or entity shall intentionally release, intentionally organize the release of, or otherwise intentionally cause the simultaneous release of ten (10) or more balloons inflated with a gas that is lighter than air, except for:
(1)
A balloon released for scientific or meteorological purposes, on behalf of a governmental agency or pursuant to a governmental contract;
(2)
A hot air balloon that is recovered after launching; or
(3)
A balloon that is released and remains indoors.
History of Section.
P.L. 2021, ch. 237, § 1, effective November 1, 2021; P.L. 2021, ch. 240, § 1, effective November 1, 2021.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-96 - Prohibited Release of Balloons › Section 23-96-2. - Penalties.

§ 23-96-2. Penalties.
Any person or entity who violates this section shall be subject to a civil penalty of one hundred dollars ($100) for a first offense and up to two hundred fifty dollars ($250) for a second or subsequent offense.
History of Section.
P.L. 2021, ch. 240, § 1, effective November 1, 2021; P.L. 2021, ch. 237, § 1, effective November 1, 2021.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-96 - Prohibited Release of Balloons › Section 23-96-3. - Regulations.

§ 23-96-3. Regulations.
The department of environmental management shall promulgate rules and regulations as may be necessary to implement and carry out the provisions of this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 2021, ch. 240, § 1, effective November 1, 2021; P.L. 2021, ch. 237, § 1, effective November 1, 2021.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-97 - Consumer Protection in Eye Care Act › Section 23-97-1. - Short title.

§ 23-97-1. Short title.
This act shall be known and may be cited as the “Consumer Protection in Eye Care Act.”
History of Section.
P.L. 2022, ch. 318, § 1, effective June 29, 2022; P.L. 2022, ch. 319, § 1, effective June 29, 2022.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-97 - Consumer Protection in Eye Care Act › Section 23-97-2. - Definitions.

§ 23-97-2. Definitions.
(a)
As used in this chapter:
(1)
“Assessment mechanism” means automated or virtual equipment, application, or technology designed to be used on a telephone, a computer, or an internet-accessible device that may be used either in person or remotely to conduct an eye assessment, and includes artificial intelligence devices and any equipment, electronic or nonelectronic, that is used to perform an eye assessment.
(2)
“Contact lens” means any lens placed directly on the surface of the eye, regardless of whether or not it is intended to correct a visual defect, including any cosmetic, therapeutic, or corrective lens.
(3)
“Eye assessment” means an assessment of the ocular health and visual status of a patient that may include, but is not limited to, objective refractive data or information generated by an assessment mechanism or an automated testing device, including an autorefractor, in order to establish a medical diagnosis for the correction of vision disorders.
(4)
“Person” means an individual, corporation, trust, partnership, incorporated or unincorporated association, and any other legal entity.
(5)
“Prescription” means a handwritten or electronic order issued by a provider that includes:
(i)
In the case of contact lenses, all information required by the Fairness to Contact Lens Consumers Act, 15 U.S.C. § 7601 et seq.;
(ii)
In the case of visual aid glasses, all information required by the Ophthalmic Practice Rules, also known as the Eyeglass Rule, 16 C.F.R. Part 456; and
(iii)
Necessary and appropriate information for the dispensing of visual aid glasses or contact lenses for a patient, including the provider’s name, license number, physical address with which the provider is associated, and telephone number.
(6)
“Provider” means a healthcare professional licensed under chapter 35.1 or 37 of title 5.
(7)
“Visual aid glasses” means eyeglasses, spectacles, or lenses designed or used to correct visual defects, including spectacles that may be adjusted by the wearer to achieve different types or levels of visual correction or enhancement. Visual aid glasses do not include optical instruments or devices that are:
(i)
Not intended to correct or enhance vision;
(ii)
Sold without consideration of the visual status of the individual who will use the optical instrument or device, including nonprescription sunglasses, plano lenses that are clear, colored, or tinted, or lenses that are designed and used solely to filter out light;
(iii)
Completely assembled eyeglasses or spectacles designed and used solely to magnify; or
(iv)
Nonprescription eyewear exempted from the provisions of § 5-35.1-10, namely simple reading magnifying glasses, toy glasses, goggles consisting of plano white or plano colored lenses, or ordinary colored glasses.
History of Section.
P.L. 2022, ch. 318, § 1, effective June 29, 2022; P.L. 2022, ch. 319, § 1, effective June 29, 2022.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-97 - Consumer Protection in Eye Care Act › Section 23-97-3. - Assessment mechanisms.

§ 23-97-3. Assessment mechanisms.
An assessment mechanism to conduct an eye assessment or to generate a prescription for contact lenses or visual aid glasses in Rhode Island shall:
(1)
Provide synchronous or asynchronous interaction between the patient and the provider;
(2)
Collect the patient’s medical history, previous prescription for corrective eyewear, and length of time since the patient’s most recent in-person comprehensive eye health examination;
(3)
Disclose to patients and require acceptance in advance as a term of use that:
(i)
This assessment is not a replacement of an in-person comprehensive eye health examination;
(ii)
This assessment cannot be used to generate an initial prescription for contact lenses or a follow-up or first renewal of the initial prescription;
(iii)
This assessment may only be used if the patient has had an in-person comprehensive eye health examination within the previous twenty-four (24) months if the patient is conducting an eye assessment or receiving a prescription for visual aid glasses; and
(iv)
The United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises contact lens wearers to visit an eye doctor one time a year or more often if needed.
History of Section.
P.L. 2022, ch. 318, § 1, effective June 29, 2022; P.L. 2022, ch. 319, § 1, effective June 29, 2022.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-97 - Consumer Protection in Eye Care Act › Section 23-97-4. - Provider responsibilities.

§ 23-97-4. Provider responsibilities.
To use an assessment mechanism to conduct an eye assessment or to generate a prescription, a person shall be an actively licensed provider acting within their scope of practice, and the provider shall:
(1)
Conform to the standard of eye health care expected of traditional in-person clinical settings as appropriate to the patient’s age and presenting condition, including when the standard of care requires the use of diagnostic testing and performance of a physical examination, which may be carried out through the use of peripheral devices appropriate to the patient’s condition.
(2)
Not use the data or information obtained from an eye assessment as the sole basis for issuing a prescription.
(3)
Read and interpret the diagnostic information and data, including any photographs and scans, gathered by the assessment mechanism.
(4)
Verify the identity of the patient requesting treatment via the assessment mechanism.
(5)
Verify the patient is at least eighteen (18) years of age.
(6)
For issuing prescriptions for visual aid glasses, verify that the patient has received an in-person comprehensive eye examination by a provider within the previous twenty-four (24) months.
(7)
For issuing prescriptions for contact lenses, verify that the patient has received an in-person comprehensive eye health examination by a provider:
(i)
For the initial prescription and one follow-up or first renewal of the initial prescription; or
(ii)
Within twenty-four (24) months after the follow-up or first renewal of the initial prescription, and every twenty-four (24) months thereafter.
(8)
Create and maintain a medical record for each patient, which is for use during the ongoing treatment of a patient, and complies with all state and federal laws regarding maintenance and accessibility.
(9)
Provide a handwritten or electronic signature, along with their Rhode Island state license number, certifying their diagnosis, evaluation, treatment, prescription, or consultation recommendations of the patient.
History of Section.
P.L. 2022, ch. 318, § 1, effective June 29, 2022; P.L. 2022, ch. 319, § 1, effective June 29, 2022.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-97 - Consumer Protection in Eye Care Act › Section 23-97-5. - Penalties.

§ 23-97-5. Penalties.
(a)
Any person who violates any provision of this chapter or the rules or regulations promulgated by the department of health shall, in addition to any other penalty provided by law, pay a civil penalty to the state in an amount not to exceed ten thousand dollars ($10,000) for each violation, to be deposited as general revenue.
(b)
Any person charged in a complaint filed by the department of health or the office of the attorney general with violating any of the provisions of this chapter shall be entitled to an administrative hearing conducted in accordance with chapter 35 of title 42.
(c)
Any person aggrieved by a final order issued under the authority of this chapter shall have the right of an appeal by filing a petition in the state superior court.
(d)
Nothing in this chapter shall restrict the department of health from enforcing disciplinary action against a provider pursuant to chapters 35.1 and 37 of title 5, and any rules or regulations promulgated thereunder.
History of Section.
P.L. 2022, ch. 318, § 1, effective June 29, 2022; P.L. 2022, ch. 319, § 1, effective June 29, 2022.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-97 - Consumer Protection in Eye Care Act › Section 23-97-6. - Rules and regulations.

§ 23-97-6. Rules and regulations.
The department of health shall adopt and promulgate reasonable rules and regulations to carry out the provisions of this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 2022, ch. 318, § 1, effective June 29, 2022; P.L. 2022, ch. 319, § 1, effective June 29, 2022.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-97 - Consumer Protection in Eye Care Act › Section 23-97-7. - Severability.

§ 23-97-7. Severability.
If any provision of this chapter, or of any rule or regulation promulgated under this chapter, or the application of this chapter to any person or circumstances is held invalid by a court of competent jurisdiction, the remainder of the chapter, rule, or regulation, and the application of this provision to other persons or circumstances, shall not be affected.
History of Section.
P.L. 2022, ch. 318, § 1, effective June 29, 2022; P.L. 2022, ch. 319, § 1, effective June 29, 2022.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-98 - Sexual Assault Evidence Kits › Section 23-98-1. - Short title.

§ 23-98-1. Short title.
This chapter shall be known and may be cited as the “Sexual Assault Evidence Kits Act”.
History of Section.
P.L. 2022, ch. 354, § 1, effective June 29, 2022; P.L. 2022, ch. 355, § 1, effective June 29, 2022.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-98 - Sexual Assault Evidence Kits › Section 23-98-4. - Mandatory submission and testing requirements for newly collected sexual assault evidence kits.

§ 23-98-4. Mandatory submission and testing requirements for newly collected sexual assault evidence kits.
(a)
Medical facilities and all other facilities that conduct medical forensic examinations shall notify the appropriate law enforcement agency immediately, and no later than twenty-four (24) hours after the collection of a new sexual assault evidence kit.
(b)
Hospitals and state laboratories shall work together to ensure reported kits are transferred from the hospital to the laboratory within ten (10) days of the kit being collected.
(1)
Anonymous kits and unreported kits are exempted from this section unless the victim files a report and consents to the testing of their kit. Anonymous kits shall be safely stored by the state laboratory in a manner that preserves evidence for a duration of ten (10) years or the applicable statute of limitations, whichever is greater.
(2)
Victims who do not file a report with law enforcement at the time the kit was collected shall not negate their right to report the crime and have their kit tested in the future.
(3)
Kits associated with a reported crime that is uncharged or unsolved shall be preserved by the applicable law enforcement agency for fifty (50) years or the length of the applicable statute of limitations, whichever is greater.
(c)
Law enforcement shall contact the department of health when a victim of sexual assault files a police complaint. At that point, the department of health shall begin the forensic analysis. An accredited public crime laboratory shall test all kits within thirty (30) days of receipt.
(1)
Testing shall be pursued to develop autosomal DNA profiles that are eligible for entry into the Combined DNA Index System (CODIS) and local DNA databases, with the goal of generating a CODIS-eligible DNA profile. If a laboratory is unable to obtain an autosomal CODIS-eligible DNA profile, the laboratory shall evaluate the case to determine if any other DNA-typing results could be used for investigative purposes.
(2)
In cases where testing has resulted in a DNA profile, the laboratory shall enter the full profile into the Combined DNA Index System Database (CODIS) and local DNA databases. The average completion rate for this analysis and classification shall not exceed ninety (90) days.
(3)
If an accredited public crime laboratory is unable to meet the deadline specified in subsection (c)(2) of this section, untested kits shall be outsourced to an accredited private crime laboratory.
History of Section.
P.L. 2022, ch. 354, § 1, effective June 29, 2022; P.L. 2022, ch. 355, § 1, effective June 29, 2022.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-99 - The Rhode Island Life Science Hub Act › Section 23-99-1. - Short title.

§ 23-99-1. Short title.
This act shall be known and may be cited as the “Rhode Island Life Science Hub Act”.
History of Section.
P.L. 2023, ch. 79, art. 7, § 2, effective September 1, 2023.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-99 - The Rhode Island Life Science Hub Act › Section 23-99-2. - Legislative purpose.

§ 23-99-2. Legislative purpose.
The purpose of this chapter shall be to create and lawfully manage the Rhode Island life science hub, a public corporation. The Rhode Island life science hub shall be the central entity and coordinating organization of life science initiatives on behalf of the state and shall:
(1)
Facilitate the development of medical advances and scientific breakthroughs with companies that specialize in the fields of: medical devices, biomedical technology, medical therapeutic therapies, biogenetics, biomedical engineering, biopharmaceuticals, genomics, and life sciences; and
(2)
Through targeted investment of grants, tax credits, and incentives, fund and incubate Rhode Island-based life science companies that will promote economic and workforce development within the state and that shall allow the state to successfully compete in the national and international life science industries.
History of Section.
P.L. 2023, ch. 79, art. 7, § 2, effective September 1, 2023.