reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-33.2 - Funeral Director/Embalmer and Funeral Service Establishments › Section 5-33.2-16. - Funeral director/embalmer — Internship.

§ 5-33.2-16. Funeral director/embalmer — Internship.
(a)
Nothing in this chapter shall be construed as prohibiting any person from serving as a funeral director/embalmer intern. Before an internship begins, the person desiring to become an intern shall register with the division on any forms that it prescribes. No person under the age of eighteen (18) years shall be permitted to register as an intern. The division may make any rules and regulations that it deems advisable for the supervision of interns. All persons registering as an intern shall pay a fee as set forth in § 23-1-54 at the time of the registration. That intern is not permitted to advertise or hold himself or herself out to the public as a registered funeral director/embalmer. The term of internship shall be not less than one year; provided, that if an intern after having served his or her internship fails to pass the examination for a funeral director/embalmer’s license or fails to embalm fifty (50) human remains during his or her internship, he or she may continue his or her internship. The total term of internship must be completed within five (5) years from the date of original registration.
(b)
The intern must have assisted in embalming at least fifty (50) bodies if the period for registered internship is to be satisfied in one year. If the internship is for more than one year, the applicant must embalm at least twenty-five (25) bodies for each year of his or her internship. Each licensed funeral establishment embalming up to one hundred fifty (150) human remains per year shall be allowed to register one intern at one time. Each establishment embalming more than one hundred fifty (150) but less than three hundred (300) human remains per year shall be allowed to register two (2) interns at one time. Each establishment embalming three hundred (300) or more human remains per year shall be allowed to register three (3) interns at one time.
History of Section.
P.L. 1995, ch. 255, § 2; P.L. 2001, ch. 77, art. 14, § 8; P.L. 2007, ch. 73, art. 39, § 6; P.L. 2012, ch. 241, art. 9, § 7.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-33.2 - Funeral Director/Embalmer and Funeral Service Establishments › Section 5-33.2-18. - Summons of witnesses.

§ 5-33.2-18. Summons of witnesses.
The division has power by its administrator to summon any person to appear as a witness and testify at any hearing of the division under the provisions of this chapter and to examine and to administer oaths to those witnesses.
History of Section.
P.L. 1995, ch. 255, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-33.2 - Funeral Director/Embalmer and Funeral Service Establishments › Section 5-33.2-19. - Appeals.

§ 5-33.2-19. Appeals.
Any person aggrieved by any decision or ruling of the division may appeal that decision to the administrator of the division or his or her designee. A further appeal may then be made to the appropriate board of examiners. Any person aggrieved by any decision or ruling of that board may appeal the decision to the director of the department. Any further appeal from the action of the director shall be in accordance with the provisions of chapter 35 of title 42, “administrative procedures act.” The division shall be considered a person for the purposes of this section.
History of Section.
P.L. 1995, ch. 255, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-33.2 - Funeral Director/Embalmer and Funeral Service Establishments › Section 5-33.2-20. - Restricted receipts accounts for fees.

§ 5-33.2-20. Restricted receipts accounts for fees.
All the proceeds of any fees collected pursuant to the provisions of this chapter, shall be placed in a restricted receipts accounts, which is used for the general purposes of the division of professional regulation with the department of health.
History of Section.
P.L. 1995, ch, 255, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-33.2 - Funeral Director/Embalmer and Funeral Service Establishments › Section 5-33.2-21. - Penalty for violations.

§ 5-33.2-21. Penalty for violations.
Any person, partnership, corporation, limited-liability company, association, or his or her or its agents or representatives violating any of the provisions of this chapter, or of any rules or regulation of the division, is guilty of a misdemeanor and upon conviction shall be punished by imprisonment for not exceeding six (6) months, or by a fine not exceeding five hundred dollars ($500), or by both the fine and imprisonment, within the discretion of the court.
History of Section.
P.L. 1995, ch. 255, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-33.2 - Funeral Director/Embalmer and Funeral Service Establishments › Section 5-33.2-22. - Complaints of violations.

§ 5-33.2-22. Complaints of violations.
(a)
Complaints for violation of the provisions of this chapter or of any lawful rules or regulation made under this chapter by the division may be made by the administrator of the division or by any person authorized by the administrator, who shall be exempt from giving surety for costs on that complaint.
(b)
All complaints filed with the division charging a person or establishment with having been guilty of any actions specified in this chapter or the rules and regulations must be sworn and notarized.
History of Section.
P.L. 1995, ch. 255, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-33.2 - Funeral Director/Embalmer and Funeral Service Establishments › Section 5-33.2-23. - Severability.

§ 5-33.2-23. Severability.
If any provision of this chapter or of any rule or regulation made under this chapter, or the application of this chapter to any person or circumstances, is held invalid by a court of competent jurisdiction, the remainder of the chapter, rule, or regulation and the application of the provision to other persons or circumstances, is not affected.
History of Section.
P.L. 1995, ch. 255, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-33.2 - Funeral Director/Embalmer and Funeral Service Establishments › Section 5-33.2-25. - Mandatory continuing education training.

§ 5-33.2-25. Mandatory continuing education training.
Every funeral director/embalmer shall be required to participate in a total of five (5) hours annually of continuing education training of which one hour is mandated by annual OSHA training; provided, however, those funeral directors or embalmers who are sixty-five (65) years of age or older and have forty (40) years of experience are exempt from this requirement. The five (5) hours of annual training shall be required for renewals issued as of January 1, 2008.
History of Section.
P.L. 2007, ch. 326, § 1; P.L. 2009, ch. 367, § 1; P.L. 2009, ch. 387, § 1; P.L. 2022, ch. 129, § 1, effective July 1, 2022; P.L. 2022, ch. 130, § 1, effective July 1, 2022.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-33.2 - Funeral Director/Embalmer and Funeral Service Establishments › Section 5-33.2-26. - Licensure by endorsement.

§ 5-33.2-26. Licensure by endorsement.
Any funeral director/embalmer who is currently licensed in good standing in another state may be licensed by endorsement in Rhode Island. Every funeral director/embalmer seeking such licensure must also be a graduate of a mortuary college, must have passed the funeral director and embalmer portions of the written examination of the national board. Furthermore, every funeral director/embalmer must comply with all requirements of chapter 5-33 and successfully complete a practical examination in Rhode Island. Anyone licensed in another state prior to 1985 is hereby exempt from the National Board Examination requirements set forth in this section.
History of Section.
P.L. 2007, ch. 326, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-33.3 - Funeral Planning Agent Designation › Section 5-33.3-1. - Title.

§ 5-33.3-1. Title.
This act may be known as the “Funeral Planning Agent Designation Act.”
History of Section.
P.L. 1999, ch. 196, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-33.3 - Funeral Planning Agent Designation › Section 5-33.3-2. - Definitions.

§ 5-33.3-2. Definitions.
As used in this chapter:
(a)
“Funeral planning agent” means a person who is at least eighteen (18) years of age; who has been duly and lawfully designated, and who has accepted the designation, to act for the principal; and who has authority and responsibility to make all arrangements, regarding funeral preparation, planning, the nature of the funeral goods and services to be provided, the manner in which funeral services are to be conducted, burial, and/or the disposition of the principal’s remains, including cremation, upon the death of the principal. The funeral planning agent may be a relative or a non-relative of the principal, except as otherwise provided for in § 5-33.3-3(d).
(b)
“Principal” means the person designating another individual or individuals to serve as his or her funeral planning agent upon the person’s death.
(c)
“Relative” means any person defined pursuant to the provisions of § 5-33.2-24(2)(ii) — (2)(vii).
History of Section.
P.L. 1999, ch. 196, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-33.3 - Funeral Planning Agent Designation › Section 5-33.3-3. - Designation of funeral planning agent.

§ 5-33.3-3. Designation of funeral planning agent.
(a)
Any individual who is at least eighteen (18) years of age and of sound mind is allowed to designate a primary funeral planning agent and alternate agent, if they wish.
(b)
All healthcare providers, as licensed under the provisions of chapter 29 or 37 of this title, all healthcare facilities, as defined in chapter 17 of title 23, all funeral directors/embalmers and funeral establishments as defined in chapter 33.2 of this title, and all crematories and cemeteries, as well as their agents and employees, shall be required to comply with all of the provisions of this chapter.
(c)
The individual making the designation pursuant to subsection (a) shall designate a primary agent, but shall not be required to designate an alternate agent. No person so designated as the funeral planning agent shall be required to take on the responsibilities of said designation if they are unwilling or incapable of doing so.
(d)
No person may act as a primary funeral planning agent or alternate agent for more than one non-relative at any one time except that a person may serve as a funeral planning agent to any and all of his or her relatives and any one non-relative simultaneously. The designated agent or alternate agent shall sign the designation accepting the appointment. A person accepting said appointment shall assume ultimate responsibility for ensuring full payment of all expenses and costs connected to the funeral of the principal from the principal’s resources, or in the event the principal’s resources are insufficient to ensure full payment, from the agent’s own personal financial resources.
(e)
All individuals, facilities, and establishments listed in subsection (b) shall be held harmless, and shall not be subject to civil suit, either as individual(s), partnership(s), or corporation(s) for complying with the provisions of this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1999, ch. 196, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-33.3 - Funeral Planning Agent Designation › Section 5-33.3-4. - Form of designation.

§ 5-33.3-4. Form of designation.
(a)
The designation provided for in section 5-33.3-3 may be in substantially the following form:
I, (PRINCIPAL), do hereby name and designate (PRIMARY AGENT) as my primary funeral planning agent, or if he/she is unwilling or incapable (ALTERNATE AGENT) as my alternate funeral planning agent, who shall have the sole responsibility and authority to make any and all arrangements and decisions regarding my funeral preparation and planning, burial or disposition of my remains, including cremation, upon my death, pursuant to the provisions of § 5-33.2-24. By signing this document, the aforementioned agent(s) agree to ensure payment for all outstanding expenses related to my funeral. The agent further certifies that if I am a non-relative to the agent, then I am the only non-relative for whom the agent is serving as a funeral planning agent. This document shall revoke and shall make null and void any and all previous designations of a funeral planning agent.
Witness: _________________________________________
Principal: _________________________________________
_________________________________________
(Name and address of Witness)
Name and address of Principal:
_________________________________________
_________________________________________
Dated: _______________________________________
Dated: _________________________________________
Primary Agent: _______________________________________
Alternate Agent: _________________________________________
Name and Address of Primary
Name and Address of Alternate
Agent
Agent
_________________________________________
Dated: _______________________________________
Dated: _________________________________________
State of _______________________________________
County of _________________________________________
Subscribed and sworn to before me this _____________________ day of _________________________________________
_________________________________________
_______________________________________ (Notary Public)
(b)
Upon the proper and complete execution of a funeral planning agent designation form, a signed notarized original thereof shall be given to the principal executing the form, the primary funeral planning agent, and the alternate funeral planning agent, if any.
(c)
The principal is encouraged to review in detail his or her specific wishes regarding the nature of the funeral goods and services to be provided, the manner in which funeral services are to be conducted, and/or the disposition of his or her remains with their funeral planning agent(s).
(d)
This chapter shall not be construed to prohibit the participation of other individuals in the funeral planning process as well as the funeral itself. No individuals shall be required to designate a funeral planning agent under the provisions of this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1999, ch. 196, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-34 - Nurses › Section 5-34-1. - Legislative intent.

§ 5-34-1. Legislative intent.
The legislature of the state, in order to safeguard life, health, property, and the public welfare of the people of this state and, in order to protect the people of the state from the unauthorized, unqualified, and improper application of services by individuals in the practice of nursing, declares it a policy to continue to adequately provide for state regulatory authority for nursing. The legislature further declares it is the policy of the state that state regulatory authority for nursing has the power to enforce the provisions of this chapter. Any person who practices or offers to practice nursing or who represents oneself as a licensed professional or practical nurse without qualifying under the provisions of this chapter endangers the public health.
History of Section.
P.L. 1982, ch. 328, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-34 - Nurses › Section 5-34-1.1. - Title of act.

§ 5-34-1.1. Title of act.
This act shall be known and may be cited as “The Rhode Island Nurse Practice Act.”
History of Section.
P.L. 2003, ch. 125, § 1; P.L. 2003, ch. 138, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-34 - Nurses › Section 5-34-2. - License and registration required to practice nursing or use title.

§ 5-34-2. License and registration required to practice nursing or use title.
It is unlawful for any person to practice or offer to practice nursing in this state or to use any title, sign, abbreviation, card, or device indicating authority to practice nursing unless that person is licensed and registered under the provisions of this chapter or by the compact set forth in chapter 34.3 of this title.
History of Section.
P.L. 1982, ch. 328, § 2; P.L. 2007, ch. 50, § 1; P.L. 2007, ch. 62, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-34 - Nurses › Section 5-34-4. - Board of nursing — Establishment — Composition — Appointment, terms, and removal of members — Director of nurse registration and nursing education.

§ 5-34-4. Board of nursing — Establishment — Composition — Appointment, terms, and removal of members — Director of nurse registration and nursing education.
(a)
Within the division of professional regulation, pursuant to chapter 26 of this title, there is a board of nurse registration and nursing education, sometimes referred to herein as the “board of nursing.” The board shall be composed of fifteen (15) members. The term of office shall be for three (3) years. No member shall serve more than two (2) consecutive terms. The member shall serve until a qualified successor is appointed to serve. In making those appointments, the director of the department of health shall consider persons suggested by professional nurse organizations and the practical nurse’s association.
(b)
Present members of the board holding office under the provisions of this chapter shall serve as members of the board until the expiration of their terms or until qualified successors are appointed. The fifteen-member (15) board shall include: eleven (11) professional nurses, two (2) practical nurses appointed by the director of health and approved by the governor, and two (2) members of the general public appointed by the governor. Three (3) professional nurses shall be from different basic education programs preparing students to become nurses; one professional nurse shall be from a nursing service administration; four (4) professional non-administrative, clinical nurses not licensed as advanced practice nurses; and three (3) professional advanced practice nurses, one who holds a license as a certified registered nurse anesthetist, one who holds a license as a certified registered nurse practitioner, and one who holds a license as a certified clinical nurse specialist. No educational program or cooperating agency shall have more than one representative on the board.
(c)
The director of health may remove any member from the board for cause including, but not limited to, neglect of any duty required by law, incompetence, unprofessional conduct, or willful misconduct. A member subject to disciplinary proceedings shall be disqualified from board business until the charge is adjudicated. There shall also be a director of nurse registration and nursing education appointed by the director of health in accordance with the provisions of chapter 4 of title 36.
History of Section.
P.L. 1982, ch. 328, § 2; P.L. 1988, ch. 180, § 1; P.L. 1993, ch. 93, § 1; P.L. 1993, ch. 303, § 1; P.L. 2003, ch. 125, § 2; P.L. 2003, ch. 138, § 2; P.L. 2013, ch. 83, § 1; P.L. 2013, ch. 93, § 1; P.L. 2014, ch. 528, § 3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-34 - Nurses › Section 5-34-5. - Board of nursing — Qualifications of members.

§ 5-34-5. Board of nursing — Qualifications of members.
(a)
Each member of the board of nurse registration and nursing education shall:
(1)
Be a citizen of the United States;
(2)
Be a resident of the state for at least one year immediately preceding appointment;
(3)
File the statutory oath of office with the secretary of state before beginning the term of office; and
(4)
Sign a conflict-of-interest statement.
(b)
Each professional nurse member of the board shall:
(1)
Be currently licensed as a registered nurse in the state; and
(2)
Have at least five (5) years’ experience in nursing practice or administration, nursing service, or teaching or administration in a nursing education program and is currently employed in nursing at the time of appointment and employed in nursing for at least three (3) years immediately preceding appointment.
(c)
Each practical nurse member of the board shall:
(1)
Be currently licensed as a practical nurse in the state; and
(2)
Have at least five (5) years’ experience in practical nursing and is currently employed in nursing for at least three (3) years immediately preceding appointment.
(d)
Each advanced practice nurse member of the board shall:
(1)
Be currently licensed as an advanced practice nurse in the state; and
(2)
Have at least five (5) years’ experience in nursing practice and is currently employed as an advanced practice nurse for at least three (3) years immediately preceding appointment.
(e)
Neither member from the general public shall be a nurse or shall be enrolled in a nursing education program.
History of Section.
P.L. 1982, ch. 328, § 2; P.L. 2003, ch. 125, § 2; P.L. 2003, ch. 138, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-34 - Nurses › Section 5-34-6. - Board of nursing — Organization — Meetings.

§ 5-34-6. Board of nursing — Organization — Meetings.
The board of nurse registration and nursing education shall elect annually from its membership a president and vice-president. A secretary shall also be elected. The state director of nurse registration and nursing education shall not be a member of the board. Meetings may be called by the president, vice-president, director of nurse registration and nursing education, director of the department of health, or upon written request of five (5) members of the board. A majority constitutes a quorum at any meeting.
History of Section.
P.L. 1982, ch. 328, § 2; P.L. 2003, ch. 125, § 2; P.L. 2003, ch. 138, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-34 - Nurses › Section 5-34-7. - Board of nursing — General powers.

§ 5-34-7. Board of nursing — General powers.
The board of nurse registration and nursing education is authorized, subject to the approval of the director of the department of health, to:
(1)
Adopt, review, or revise rules and regulations consistent with the law that may be necessary to effect provisions of the chapter;
(2)
Approve nursing education programs according to the rules established by the board;
(3)
Require standards for nursing practice within organized nursing services and the individual practice of licensees;
(4)
Approve the examinations for licensure;
(5)
Establish requirements to validate competence for reinstatement to the active list;
(6)
Conduct hearings upon charges calling for discipline of a licensee or revocation of a license;
(7)
Issue subpoenas to compel the attendance of witnesses and administer oaths to persons giving testimony at hearings;
(8)
Cause the prosecution or enjoinder of all persons violating this chapter;
(9)
Maintain a record of all its proceedings;
(10)
Submit an annual report to the director of the department of health;
(11)
Utilize other persons who may be necessary to carry on the work of the board;
(12)
Conduct public hearings, investigations, and studies of nursing practice, nursing education, and related matters and prepare and issue publications that, in the judgment of the board, allow the nursing profession to provide safe, effective nursing services to the public;
(13)
Determine qualifications necessary for prescriptive privileges for advanced practice registered nurses;
(14)
Grant prescriptive privileges to advanced practice registered nurses; and
(15)
[Deleted by P.L. 2013, ch. 83, § 1 and P.L. 2013, ch. 93, § 1];
(16)
[Deleted by P.L. 2013, ch. 83, § 1 and P.L. 2013, ch. 93, § 1];
(17)
Adopt criteria for recognizing national certifying bodies for APRN roles and population foci.
History of Section.
P.L. 1982, ch. 328, § 2; P.L. 1990, ch. 162, § 1; P.L. 2003, ch. 125, § 2; P.L. 2003, ch. 138, § 2; P.L. 2013, ch. 83, § 1; P.L. 2013, ch. 93, § 1; P.L. 2014, ch. 528, § 3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-34 - Nurses › Section 5-34-8. - Board of nursing — Compensation of members.

§ 5-34-8. Board of nursing — Compensation of members.
No member of the board of nurse registration and nursing education shall be compensated for the discharge of official duties.
History of Section.
P.L. 1982, ch. 328, § 2; P.L. 2005, ch. 117, art. 21, § 11.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-34 - Nurses › Section 5-34-9. - Register of nurses — Records — Issuance of licenses.

§ 5-34-9. Register of nurses — Records — Issuance of licenses.
The department shall license and renew licenses upon the recommendation of the board of nurse registration and nursing education and shall maintain a roster of all applicants for licensure and all nurses licensed under this chapter, which shall be open at all reasonable times to public inspection; and shall be custodian of all records pertaining to the roster and licensing of all nurses; and shall have the custody of the official seal. The department shall issue all licenses to practice nursing only upon recommendation of the board of nurse registration and nursing education.
History of Section.
P.L. 1982, ch. 328, § 2; P.L. 2003, ch. 125, § 2; P.L. 2003, ch. 138, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-34 - Nurses › Section 5-34-10. - Qualifications of professional nurse applicants.

§ 5-34-10. Qualifications of professional nurse applicants.
An applicant for licensure to practice as a professional nurse shall submit to the board written evidence on forms furnished by the division of professional regulation that the applicant:
(1)
Has completed at least an approved high school course of study or the equivalent supported by diploma or certificate of the course of study as determined by the rules and regulations of the state board of education;
(2)
Has successfully completed the prescribed curriculum in an approved basic professional nursing education program and holds a diploma from the program; and
(3)
Is of good moral character.
History of Section.
P.L. 1982, ch. 328, § 2; P.L. 2018, ch. 176, § 8; P.L. 2018, ch. 289, § 8.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-34 - Nurses › Section 5-34-11. - Licensing of professional nurses.

§ 5-34-11. Licensing of professional nurses.
(a) By examination.
The applicant is required to pass a written or computerized adaptive testing examination determined by the board of nurse registration and nursing education. Upon successful completion of that examination, the applicant shall receive a license to practice nursing as a professional nurse.
(b) Without examination by endorsement.
A license to practice nursing as a professional nurse may be issued without examination to an applicant who is licensed by examination as a professional nurse under the laws of another state or territory if, in the opinion of the board of nurse registration and nursing education, the applicant meets the qualifications required of professional nurses in this state.
(c) Applications.
The board of nurse registration and nursing education shall act on each application within ninety (90) days of its submission.
History of Section.
P.L. 1982, ch. 328, § 2; P.L. 1993, ch. 93, § 1; P.L. 1993, ch. 147, § 1; P.L. 1993, ch. 303, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-34 - Nurses › Section 5-34-12. - Application fee for professional nurses.

§ 5-34-12. Application fee for professional nurses.
The applicant for a license to practice as a professional nurse shall pay a fee as set forth in § 23-1-54.
History of Section.
P.L. 1982, ch. 328, § 2; P.L. 2001, ch. 77, art. 14, § 9; P.L. 2007, ch. 73, art. 39, § 7; P.L. 2012, ch. 241, art. 9, § 8.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-34 - Nurses › Section 5-34-13. - Right to use professional nurse title.

§ 5-34-13. Right to use professional nurse title.
Any person who holds a license to practice as a professional nurse in this state shall have the right to use the title “Registered nurse” and the abbreviation “R.N.” No other person may assume that title or use that abbreviation or any other words or letters, signs, figures, or devices to indicate that the person using it is a professional nurse.
History of Section.
P.L. 1982, ch. 328, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-34 - Nurses › Section 5-34-14. - Qualifications of practical nurse applicants.

§ 5-34-14. Qualifications of practical nurse applicants.
An applicant for a license to practice as a licensed practical nurse shall submit to the board of nurse registration and nursing education written evidence on forms furnished by the department, verified by oath, that the applicant:
(1)
Has completed the preliminary educational requirements prescribed by the board;
(2)
Has furnished satisfactory proof that he or she successfully completed the prescribed curriculum in an approved program of practical nursing and holds a diploma or certificate from the program or is a graduate of an approved school of professional nursing or was a student in good standing at an approved school of professional nursing before completing the program of studies and, at the time of withdrawal, had completed a program of study, theory, and clinical practice equivalent to that required for graduation from an approved school of practical nursing; and
(3)
Is of good moral character.
History of Section.
P.L. 1982, ch. 328, § 2; P.L. 1988, ch. 610, § 1; P.L. 2003, ch. 125, § 2; P.L. 2003, ch. 138, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-34 - Nurses › Section 5-34-15. - Licensing of practical nurses.

§ 5-34-15. Licensing of practical nurses.
(a) By examination.
The applicant for a license to practice as a licensed practical nurse in this state is required to pass a written or computerized adaptive testing examination determined by the board of nurse registration and nursing education. Upon successful completion of that examination, the applicant shall receive a license to practice nursing as a licensed practical nurse.
(b) Without examination by endorsement.
A license to practice as a licensed practical nurse shall be issued without examination to any applicant who is licensed by examination as a practical nurse or a person entitled to perform similar services under a different title under laws of another state or territory if, in the opinion of the board of nurse registration and nursing education, the applicant meets the requirements for licensed practical nurses in this state.
History of Section.
P.L. 1982, ch. 328, § 2; P.L. 1993, ch. 93, § 1; P.L. 1993, ch. 303, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-34 - Nurses › Section 5-34-16. - Application fee for practical nurse licensure.

§ 5-34-16. Application fee for practical nurse licensure.
The applicant for licensure to practice as a licensed practical nurse shall pay a fee as set forth in § 23-1-54.
History of Section.
P.L. 1982, ch. 328, § 2; P.L. 2001, ch. 77, art. 14, § 9; P.L. 2007, ch. 73, art. 39, § 7; P.L. 2012, ch. 241, art. 9, § 8.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-34 - Nurses › Section 5-34-17. - Right to use practical nurse title.

§ 5-34-17. Right to use practical nurse title.
Any person who holds a license to practice nursing as a practical nurse in this state has the right to use the title “Licensed Practical Nurse” and the abbreviation “L.P.N.” No other person may assume that title or use that abbreviation or any other words, letters, signs, figures, or devices to indicate that the person using it is a licensed practical nurse.
History of Section.
P.L. 1982, ch. 328, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-34 - Nurses › Section 5-34-18. - Signature on licenses for nursing.

§ 5-34-18. Signature on licenses for nursing.
All original licenses to practice nursing either as a professional or practical nurse under this chapter shall be signed by the president and the director of nurse registration and nursing education, and the director of the department of health.
History of Section.
P.L. 1982, ch. 328, § 2; P.L. 2003, ch. 125, § 2; P.L. 2003, ch. 138, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-34 - Nurses › Section 5-34-19. - Expiration and renewal of licenses.

§ 5-34-19. Expiration and renewal of licenses.
(a)
The license of every person licensed under this chapter shall expire on the first day of March of every other year following the date of license. On or before the first day of January of every year, the director shall mail an application for renewal of license to persons scheduled to be licensed that year. Every person who wishes to renew his or her license shall file with the department a duly executed renewal application together with the renewal fee as set forth in § 23-1-54.
(b)
Upon receipt of an application accompanied by payment of fees, the department shall grant a renewal license effective March second and expiring two (2) years later on March first, and that renewal license shall render the holder a legal practitioner of nursing for the period stated on the certificate of renewal. Every person seeking renewal of a license pursuant to this section shall provide satisfactory evidence to the department that in the preceding two (2) years the practitioner has completed the ten (10) required continuing education hours as established by the department through rules and regulations. The department may extend for only one six-month (6) period these educational requirements if the department is satisfied that the applicant has suffered hardship that prevented meeting the educational requirement.
(c)
Any person practicing nursing during the time his or her license has lapsed shall be considered an illegal practitioner and is subject to the penalties provided for violation of this chapter.
(d)
A licensee whose license has expired by failure to renew may apply for reinstatement according to the rules established by the board. Upon satisfaction of the requirements for reinstatement, the board shall issue a renewal of license.
History of Section.
P.L. 1982, ch. 328, § 2; P.L. 1983, ch. 33, § 1; P.L. 1993, ch. 138, art. 71, § 14; P.L. 2001, ch. 77, art. 14, § 9; P.L. 2003, ch. 125, § 2; P.L. 2003, ch. 138, § 2; P.L. 2007, ch. 73, art. 39, § 7; P.L. 2012, ch. 241, art. 9, § 8.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-34 - Nurses › Section 5-34-19.1. - Applications to include data on race and ethnic background.

§ 5-34-19.1. Applications to include data on race and ethnic background.
Applications for all licenses and/or all license renewals issued pursuant to this chapter shall include a section requesting optional data on the race and ethnic background of the applicant. Only aggregate data on race and ethnic background may be disseminated by the department of health. The data obtained from the response to such section shall be tabulated by the board of nurse registration and nursing education. The data obtained from the response to such section shall remain confidential and can be released only in the aggregate. The applicant shall in no way be required to provide the information.
History of Section.
P.L. 2004, ch. 289, § 1; P.L. 2004, ch. 460, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-34 - Nurses › Section 5-34-20. - Transfer to inactive list — Reinstatement.

§ 5-34-20. Transfer to inactive list — Reinstatement.
A nurse who does not intend to practice nursing during the two-year (2) period, upon written request to the department, may have his or her name transferred to an inactive list and is not required to pay the renewal fee for as long as the inactive status is maintained. A licensee whose license has been transferred to the inactive list may apply for reactivation according to the rules established by the board. Upon satisfaction of the requirements for reinstatement, the department shall issue a renewal of license.
History of Section.
P.L. 1982, ch. 328, § 2; P.L. 2003, ch. 125, § 2; P.L. 2003, ch. 138, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-34 - Nurses › Section 5-34-21. - Receipts.

§ 5-34-21. Receipts.
The proceeds of any fees collected pursuant to the provisions of this chapter shall be deposited as general revenues.
History of Section.
P.L. 1982, ch. 328, § 2; P.L. 1989, ch. 126, art. 26, §§ 2, 15; P.L. 1995, ch. 370, art. 40, § 17.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-34 - Nurses › Section 5-34-22. - [Repealed.]

§ 5-34-22. [Repealed.]
History of Section.
P.L. 1982, ch. 328, § 2; Repealed by P.L. 2003, ch. 125, § 4, effective July 9, 2003.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-34 - Nurses › Section 5-34-23. - [Repealed.]

§ 5-34-23. [Repealed.]
History of Section.
P.L. 1982, ch. 328, § 2; Repealed by P.L. 2003, ch. 125, § 4, effective July 9, 2003.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-34 - Nurses › Section 5-34-24. - Grounds for discipline of licensees.

§ 5-34-24. Grounds for discipline of licensees.
The board of nurse registration and nursing education has the power to deny, revoke, or suspend any license to practice nursing; to provide for a nondisciplinary alternative only in situations involving alcohol or drug abuse; or to discipline a licensee upon proof that the person is:
(1)
Guilty of fraud or deceit in procuring or attempting to procure a license to practice nursing;
(2)
Guilty of a crime of gross immorality;
(3)
Unfit or incompetent by reason of negligence or habits;
(4)
Habitually intemperate or is addicted to the use of habit-forming drugs;
(5)
Mentally incompetent;
(6)
Guilty of unprofessional conduct that includes, but is not limited to, all of the above and also:
(i)
Abandonment of a patient;
(ii)
Willfully making and filing false reports or records in the practice of nursing;
(iii)
Willful omission to file or record nursing records and reports required by law;
(iv)
Failure to furnish appropriate details of a client’s nursing needs to succeeding nurses legally qualified to provide continuing nursing services to a client;
(v)
Willful disregard of standards of nursing practice and failure to maintain standards established by the nursing profession; or
(7)
Guilty of and willfully or repeatedly violating any of the provisions of this chapter and/or rule or regulation adopted pursuant to this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1982, ch. 328, § 2; P.L. 1995, ch. 43, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-34 - Nurses › Section 5-34-24.1. - Nondisciplinary alternative.

§ 5-34-24.1. Nondisciplinary alternative.
(a)
The board of nurse registration and nursing education may provide for a nondisciplinary alternative in situations involving alcohol and drug abuse, or any mental illness as listed in the most recent revised publication or the most updated volume of either the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) published by the American Psychiatric Association or the International Classification of Disease Manual (ICO) published by the World Health Organization and that substantially limits the life activities of the person with the illness; provided, that the nurse agrees to voluntarily participate in a program of treatment and rehabilitation.
(b)
All records pertaining to a nurse’s participation in the non-disciplinary program are confidential and not subject to discovery, subpoena, or public disclosure. Information related to the nondisciplinary program shall be provided to the nurse’s employer to ensure adequate worksite monitoring and compliance.
History of Section.
P.L. 1995, ch. 43, § 2; P.L. 1995, ch. 198, § 1; P.L. 2003, ch. 125, § 2; P.L. 2003, ch. 138, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-34 - Nurses › Section 5-34-24.2. - Immunity.

§ 5-34-24.2. Immunity.
(a)
The director of the department of health, director of nursing registration and education, board members, and their agents and employees shall be immune from suit in any action, civil or criminal, based on any disciplinary proceeding or other official act performed in good faith in the course of their duties under this chapter. There is no civil liability on the part of, or cause of action of any nature against, the board, director, their agents, or their employees or against any organization or its members, peer-review board, or its members, or other witnesses and parties to board proceedings for any statements made in good faith by them in any reports, communications, or testimony concerning an investigation by the board of the conduct or regarding the competence of a licensed nurse.
(b)
No licensed healthcare provider, physician, or limited registrant may discharge, threaten, or discriminate against an employee, staff member, or any other person for making a report to, giving testimony to, or providing any other communication to the board, a peer-review organization, or any appropriate supervisory personnel concerning the unprofessional conduct or incompetence or negligence of a nurse; provided, that the report, testimony, or other communication was made in good faith.
History of Section.
P.L. 2003, ch. 125, § 3; P.L. 2003, ch. 138, § 3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-34 - Nurses › Section 5-34-24.3. - [Repealed.]

§ 5-34-24.3. [Repealed.]
History of Section.
P.L. 1995, ch. 43, § 2; P.L. 1995, ch. 198, § 1; Repealed by P.L. 2003, ch. 125, § 4, effective July 9, 2003.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-34 - Nurses › Section 5-34-24.4. - [Repealed.]

§ 5-34-24.4. [Repealed.]
History of Section.
P.L. 1995, ch. 43, § 2; P.L. 1995, ch. 198, § 1; Repealed by P.L. 2003, ch. 125, § 4, effective July 9, 2003.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-34 - Nurses › Section 5-34-25. - Procedure for discipline of licensees.

§ 5-34-25. Procedure for discipline of licensees.
(a)
Upon filing a timely sworn complaint within a time period the board considers reasonable with the board charging a person with having been guilty of any of the actions specified in § 5-34-24, two (2) or more members of the board of nurse registration and nursing education immediately shall investigate those charges, or the board, after investigation, may institute charges.
(b)
In the event that investigation, in the opinion of the board, reveals reasonable grounds for believing the applicant or licensee is guilty of the charges, the board shall notify the licensee of the charges and the time and place for a hearing at least twenty (20) days prior to the time fixed for the hearing. At the hearing, the accused has the right to appear personally, or by counsel, or both, to produce witnesses, and to have subpoenas issued by the board. The attendance of witnesses and the production of books, documents, and papers at the hearing may be compelled by subpoenas issued by the board, which shall be served in accordance with the law. At the hearing, the board shall administer oaths that may be necessary for the proper conduct of the hearing. The board is not bound by the strict rules of procedure or by the laws of evidence in the conduct of its proceedings, but the determination shall be based upon sufficient legal evidence to sustain it. The board shall complete the investigation of each complaint and issue a decision within six (6) months of the receipt of the complaint. The board may extend the time for issuing its decision beyond the initial six-month (6) period in documented cases in which delays in the process are the direct result of requests or actions by the accused and/or his or her representative(s) or other good cause. The board, on a case-by-case basis, for good cause shown in writing, may extend the time for issuing its decision. If the accused is found guilty of the charges, the board may revoke, suspend, or otherwise discipline a licensee.
(c)
All hearings held under this section shall be conducted in accordance with the provisions of chapter 35 of title 42, “administrative procedures act.”
History of Section.
P.L. 1982, ch. 328, § 2; P.L. 1999, ch. 187, § 1; P.L. 2001, ch. 206, § 1; P.L. 2003, ch. 125, § 2; P.L. 2003, ch. 138, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-34 - Nurses › Section 5-34-26. - Grounds for discipline without a hearing.

§ 5-34-26. Grounds for discipline without a hearing.
The director may temporarily suspend the license of a nurse without a hearing if the director finds that evidence in his or her possession indicates that a nurse’s continuation in practice would constitute an immediate danger to the public. In the event that the director temporarily suspends the license of a nurse without a hearing, a hearing by the board must be held within ten (10) days after the suspension has occurred.
History of Section.
P.L. 1982, ch. 328, § 2; P.L. 2003, ch. 125, § 2; P.L. 2003, ch. 138, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-34 - Nurses › Section 5-34-27. - [Repealed.]

§ 5-34-27. [Repealed.]
History of Section.
P.L. 1982, ch. 328, § 2; Repealed by P.L. 1983, ch. 253, § 14.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-34 - Nurses › Section 5-34-28. - Appeals from board.

§ 5-34-28. Appeals from board.
An appeal from any decision or order of the board may be taken by any aggrieved party to the superior court in the manner provided for in chapter 35 of title 42.
History of Section.
P.L. 1982, ch. 328, § 2; P.L. 1983, ch. 253, § 13.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 5 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 5-34 - Nurses › Section 5-34-29. - Penalty for violations.

§ 5-34-29. Penalty for violations.
(a)
It is a misdemeanor for any person, firm, corporation, or association to:
(1)
Sell or fraudulently obtain or furnish any nursing diploma, license, or record or aid or abet in this;
(2)
Practice nursing as defined by this chapter and under cover of any diploma, license, or record illegally or fraudulently obtained, or signed, or issued unlawfully or under fraudulent representation;
(3)
Practice nursing as defined by this chapter unless licensed to do so under the provisions of this chapter;
(4)
Use in connection with his or her name any designation tending to imply that he or she is a professional nurse or a licensed practical nurse unless licensed to practice under the provisions of this chapter;
(5)
Practice nursing during the time his or her license issued under the provisions of this chapter is suspended or revoked;
(6)
Conduct a basic, professional nursing education program or a practical nursing education program unless it has been approved by the board of nurse registration and nursing education; and
(7)
Violate any of the provisions of this chapter.
(b)
The misdemeanor is punishable by a fine of not less than three hundred dollars ($300) for the first offense. Each subsequent offense is punishable by a fine of not less than five hundred dollars ($500), or by imprisonment of not more than one year, or by both the fine and imprisonment.
History of Section.
P.L. 1982, ch. 328, § 2.