reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 30 - Military Affairs and Defense › Chapter 30-13 - Rhode Island Code of Military Justice › Section 30-13-123. - Provisions to be explained.

§ 30-13-123. Provisions to be explained.
Sections 30-13-2, 30-13-3, 30-13-7 — 30-13-15, 30-13-27, 30-13-29, 30-13-40, 30-13-58, 30-13-76 — 30-13-118, and 30-13-123 — 30-13-125 shall be carefully explained to every enlisted member at the time of that member’s enlistment or transfer or induction into, or at the time of his or her order to duty in or with, any of the state military forces or within thirty (30) days thereafter. They shall also be explained annually to each unit of the state military forces. A complete text of this code and of the regulations prescribed by the governor thereunder shall be made available to any member of the state military forces, upon his or her request, for his or her personal examination.
History of Section.
G.L. 1956, § 30-13-123; P.L. 1962, ch. 82, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 30 - Military Affairs and Defense › Chapter 30-13 - Rhode Island Code of Military Justice › Section 30-13-124. - Complaints of wrongs.

§ 30-13-124. Complaints of wrongs.
Any member of the state military forces who believes himself or herself wronged by his or her commanding officer, and who, upon due application to that commanding officer, is refused redress, may complain to any superior commissioned officer, who shall forward the complaint to the governor or adjutant general.
History of Section.
G.L. 1956, § 30-13-124; P.L. 1962, ch. 82, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 30 - Military Affairs and Defense › Chapter 30-13 - Rhode Island Code of Military Justice › Section 30-13-125. - Redress of injuries to property.

§ 30-13-125. Redress of injuries to property.
(a)
Whenever complaint is made to any commanding officer that willful damage has been done to the property of any person or that person’s property has been wrongfully taken by members of the state military forces, that officer may, subject to such regulations as the governor may prescribe, convene a board to investigate the complaint. The board shall consist of from one (1) to three (3) commissioned officers and, for the purpose of that investigation, it has power to summon witnesses and examine them upon oath or affirmation; to receive depositions or other documentary evidence; and to assess the damages sustained against the responsible parties. The assessment of damage made by the board is subject to the approval of the commanding officer, and in the amount so approved by the commanding officer, shall be charged against the pay of the offenders. The order of the commanding officer directing charges herein authorized is conclusive, except as provided in subsection (c) of this section, on any disbursing officer for the payment by that officer to the injured parties of the damages so assessed and approved.
(b)
If the offenders cannot be ascertained, but the organization or detachment to which they belong is known, charges totaling the amount of damages assessed and approved may be paid to the injured parties from the military funds of the units of the state military forces to which the offenders belonged.
(c)
Any person subject to this code who is accused of causing willful damage to property has the right to be represented by counsel, to summon witnesses in his or her behalf, and to cross-examine those appearing against him or her. He or she has the right of appeal to the next higher commander.
History of Section.
G.L. 1956, § 30-13-125; P.L. 1962, ch. 82, § 1; P.L. 2016, ch. 511, art. 2, § 37.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 30 - Military Affairs and Defense › Chapter 30-13 - Rhode Island Code of Military Justice › Section 30-13-126. - Execution of processes and sentences.

§ 30-13-126. Execution of processes and sentences.
In addition to the officers prescribed under the laws and regulations of the United States and in § 30-13-127(b), all processes and sentences of the military courts of the state military forces shall be directed to, and executed by, any deputy sheriff, town sergeant, constable, member of the state police, or member of the police department of any municipality, or any officer or enlisted person of the state military forces appointed by the court to serve or execute processes and sentences.
History of Section.
G.L. 1956, § 30-13-126; P.L. 1962, ch. 82, § 1; P.L. 2012, ch. 324, § 59.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 30 - Military Affairs and Defense › Chapter 30-13 - Rhode Island Code of Military Justice › Section 30-13-127. - Process of military courts.

§ 30-13-127. Process of military courts.
(a)
Military courts may issue any process or mandate necessary to carry into effect their powers. A military court may issue subpoenas and subpoenas duces tecum and enforce by attachment attendance of witnesses and production of books, and records, when it is sitting within the state and the witnesses, books, and records sought are also so located.
(b)
Process and mandates may be issued by summary courts-martial, provost courts, or the president of other military courts and may be directed to, and may be executed by, the marshals of the military court or any peace officer and shall be in such form as may be prescribed by regulations issued under this code.
(c)
All officers to whom process or mandates may be so directed shall execute them and make return of their acts thereunder according to the requirements of those documents. Except as otherwise specifically provided in this code, no officer may demand or require payment of any fee or charge for receiving, executing, or returning process or mandate or for any service in connection therewith.
History of Section.
G.L. 1956, § 30-13-127; P.L. 1962, ch. 82, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 30 - Military Affairs and Defense › Chapter 30-13 - Rhode Island Code of Military Justice › Section 30-13-128. - Payment of fines and disposition thereof.

§ 30-13-128. Payment of fines and disposition thereof.
Fines imposed by a military court may be paid to it or to an officer executing its process. The amount of an imposed fine may be noted upon any state roll or account for pay of the delinquent and deducted from any pay or allowance due or thereafter to become due the delinquent, until the fine is liquidated. Any sum so deducted shall be returned to the military court that imposed the fine. Any military court and any officer collecting a fine or penalty imposed by a military court upon an officer or enlisted person shall pay it forthwith to the adjutant general who shall remit the sum within thirty (30) days to the state treasurer for the general purposes and uses of the state.
History of Section.
G.L. 1956, § 30-13-128; P.L. 1962, ch. 82, § 1; P.L. 2016, ch. 511, art. 2, § 37.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 30 - Military Affairs and Defense › Chapter 30-13 - Rhode Island Code of Military Justice › Section 30-13-129. - Immunity for action of military courts.

§ 30-13-129. Immunity for action of military courts.
No accused may bring an action or proceeding against the convening authority or a member of a military court, or officer or person acting under its authority or reviewing its proceedings, because of the approval, imposition, or execution of any sentence, or the imposition or collection of a fine or penalty, or the execution of any process or mandate of a military court.
History of Section.
G.L. 1956, § 30-13-129; P.L. 1962, ch. 82, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 30 - Military Affairs and Defense › Chapter 30-13 - Rhode Island Code of Military Justice › Section 30-13-130. - Presumption of jurisdiction.

§ 30-13-130. Presumption of jurisdiction.
The jurisdiction of the military courts and boards established by this code shall be presumed and the burden of proof rests on any person seeking to oust those courts or boards of jurisdiction in any action or proceeding.
History of Section.
G.L. 1956, § 30-13-130; P.L. 1962, ch. 82, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 30 - Military Affairs and Defense › Chapter 30-13 - Rhode Island Code of Military Justice › Section 30-13-131. - Delegation of authority by governor.

§ 30-13-131. Delegation of authority by governor.
The governor may delegate any authority vested in him or her under this code, and may provide for the subdelegation of any of that authority, except the power given him or her by §§ 30-13-21 and 30-13-24.
History of Section.
G.L. 1956, § 30-13-131; P.L. 1962, ch. 82, § 1; P.L. 2016, ch. 511, art. 2, § 37.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 30 - Military Affairs and Defense › Chapter 30-13 - Rhode Island Code of Military Justice › Section 30-13-132. - Conformity to federal law.

§ 30-13-132. Conformity to federal law.
The military courts of this state shall be constituted like, have cognizance of the same subjects as, and possess like powers as, except as to punishments, similar courts provided for by the laws and regulations governing the army of the United States and the proceedings of state military courts shall follow the forms and modes of procedure prescribed for similar federal military courts as far as applicable, except as otherwise provided in this title.
History of Section.
G.L. 1956, § 30-13-132; P.L. 1962, ch. 82, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 30 - Military Affairs and Defense › Chapter 30-13 - Rhode Island Code of Military Justice › Section 30-13-133. - Expenses of courts.

§ 30-13-133. Expenses of courts.
The expenses incident to, and connected with, the holding of military courts and courts of inquiry shall be paid by the state under orders, rules, and regulations issued by the governor.
History of Section.
G.L. 1956, § 30-13-133; P.L. 1962, ch. 82, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 30 - Military Affairs and Defense › Chapter 30-13 - Rhode Island Code of Military Justice › Section 30-13-134. - Uniformity of law.

§ 30-13-134. Uniformity of law.
This chapter shall be so construed as to effectuate its general purpose to make uniform the law of this state, so far as practical, with the law of the United States.
History of Section.
G.L. 1956, § 30-13-134; P.L. 1962, ch. 82, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 30 - Military Affairs and Defense › Chapter 30-13 - Rhode Island Code of Military Justice › Section 30-13-135. - Short title.

§ 30-13-135. Short title.
This chapter may be cited as the “Rhode Island Code of Military Justice”.
History of Section.
G.L. 1956, § 30-13-135; P.L. 1962, ch. 82, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 30 - Military Affairs and Defense › Chapter 30-14 - General Provisions › Section 30-14-1. - Repealed.

§ 30-14-1. Repealed.
History of Section.
P.L. 1956, ch. 3742, par. 241; G.L. 1956, § 30-14-1; Repealed by P.L. 1962, ch. 82, § 2. For present law, see § 30-13-122.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 30 - Military Affairs and Defense › Chapter 30-14 - General Provisions › Section 30-14-2. - Federal and state funds.

§ 30-14-2. Federal and state funds.
(a)
No funds received from the United States shall be expended under chapters 1 — 14 of this title for any purpose not authorized by federal law or regulations and all other expenditures under those chapters shall be made from funds appropriated by the state.
(b)
Notwithstanding the foregoing, and for purposes of this section and § 21-28-5.04 only, the Rhode Island national guard shall be deemed a law enforcement agency eligible to participate in the forfeiture of money and assets seized through federal, state, or municipal counterdrug operations in which members of the guard support said operations; and any money or assets so acquired may be used by the guard in support of its counterdrug program.
History of Section.
P.L. 1956, ch. 3742, par. 242; G.L. 1956, § 30-14-2; P.L. 2011, ch. 327, § 2; P.L. 2011, ch. 374, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 30 - Military Affairs and Defense › Chapter 30-14 - General Provisions › Section 30-14-3. - Holding of military commission by civil officer.

§ 30-14-3. Holding of military commission by civil officer.
Any citizen of this state may hold a commission in the militia of this state, the national guard of the United States, or any active or reserve component of the United States armed forces without thereby vacating any civil office, position, or commission held by that citizen. The holding of any commission shall not constitute such a holding of an office of trust and profit under the government of this state or of the United States as shall be incompatible with the holding of any civil office, position, or commission under the government of this state.
History of Section.
P.L. 1956, ch. 3742, par. 243; G.L. 1956, § 30-14-3; P.L. 2004, ch. 414, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 30 - Military Affairs and Defense › Chapter 30-14 - General Provisions › Section 30-14-4. - Reference to laws includes amendments.

§ 30-14-4. Reference to laws includes amendments.
Whenever any reference is made to any section of chapters 1 — 14 of this title, or any regulation authorized thereunder, or to any law of this state, or the United States, or the rules and regulations authorized thereunder, that reference shall apply to all amendments and additions thereto now or hereafter made.
History of Section.
P.L. 1956, ch. 3742, par. 244; G.L. 1956, § 30-14-4.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 30 - Military Affairs and Defense › Chapter 30-14 - General Provisions › Section 30-14-5. - Continuation of prior law.

§ 30-14-5. Continuation of prior law.
The provisions of chapters 1 — 14 of this title, insofar as they are substantially the same as the statutes existing prior to April 26, 1956, relating to the same subject matter, shall be construed as restatements and continuations of those statutes and not as new enactments.
History of Section.
P.L. 1956, ch. 3742, par. 245; G.L. 1956, § 30-14-5.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 30 - Military Affairs and Defense › Chapter 30-14 - General Provisions › Section 30-14-6. - Prior rights and actions.

§ 30-14-6. Prior rights and actions.
No action or proceeding commenced before April 26, 1956, and no right accrued, is affected by the provisions of chapters 1 — 14 of this title, but all procedure hereafter taken after April 26, 1956, shall conform to the provisions of those chapters as far as possible.
History of Section.
P.L. 1956, ch. 3742, par. 246; G.L. 1956, § 30-14-6.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 30 - Military Affairs and Defense › Chapter 30-15 - Emergency Management › Section 30-15-1. - Short title.

§ 30-15-1. Short title.
This chapter may be cited as the “Rhode Island Emergency Management Act”.
History of Section.
P.L. 1973, ch. 67, § 2; P.L. 2000, ch. 170, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 30 - Military Affairs and Defense › Chapter 30-15 - Emergency Management › Section 30-15-2. - Purposes of provisions.

§ 30-15-2. Purposes of provisions.
The purposes of this chapter are:
(1)
To reduce vulnerability of people and communities of this state to damage, injury, and loss of life and property resulting from natural or man-made catastrophes, riots, or hostile military or paramilitary action or acts of bioterrorism;
(2)
To prepare for prompt and efficient rescue, care, and treatment of persons victimized or threatened by disaster;
(3)
To provide a setting conducive to the rapid and orderly start of restoration and rehabilitation of persons and property affected by disasters;
(4)
To clarify and strengthen the roles of the governor, state agencies, and local governments in prevention of, preparation for, and response to and recovery from disasters;
(5)
To authorize and provide for cooperation in disaster prevention, preparedness, response, and recovery;
(6)
To authorize and provide for coordination of activities relating to disaster prevention, preparedness, response, and recovery by agencies and officers of this state, and similar state-local, interstate, federal-state, and foreign activities in which the state and its political subdivisions may participate;
(7)
To provide a disaster management system embodying all four (4) phases of emergency management: mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery.
(8)
[Deleted by P.L. 2000, ch. 170, § 2];
(9)
To prepare for emergency health threats, including those caused by acts of bioterrorism, that require the exercise of extraordinary government functions;
(10)
To provide the state with the ability to respond rapidly and effectively to potential or actual public health emergencies or disaster emergencies.
History of Section.
P.L. 1973, ch. 67, § 2; P.L. 2000, ch. 170, § 2; P.L. 2003, ch. 185, § 4; P.L. 2003, ch. 189, § 4; P.L. 2016, ch. 511, art. 2, § 38.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 30 - Military Affairs and Defense › Chapter 30-15 - Emergency Management › Section 30-15-3. - Definitions.

§ 30-15-3. Definitions.
As used in this chapter:
(1)
“Bioterrorism” means the intentional use of any microorganism, virus, infectious substance or biological product that may be engineered as a result of biotechnology or any naturally occurring or bioengineered component of any such microorganism, virus, infectious substance, or biological product, to cause death, disease, or other biological malfunction in a human, an animal, a plant or other living organism;
(2)
“Disaster” means occurrence or imminent threat of widespread or severe damage, injury, or loss of life or property resulting from any natural or man-made cause, including, but not limited to:
(i)
Fire;
(ii)
Flood;
(iii)
Earthquake;
(iv)
Wind, storm, wave action, oil spill, or other water contamination requiring emergency action to avert danger or damage;
(v)
Volcanic activity;
(vi)
Epidemic;
(vii)
Air contamination;
(viii)
Blight;
(ix)
Drought;
(x)
Infestation;
(xi)
Explosion;
(xii)
Riots;
(xiii)
Hostile military or paramilitary action;
(xiv)
Endangerment of the health, safety, or resources of the people of the state;
(xv)
Acts of bioterrorism;
(3)
“Political subdivision” means any city or town in Rhode Island; and
(4)
“Unorganized militia” means all able-bodied persons between the ages of sixteen (16) and fifty (50) years.
History of Section.
P.L. 1973, ch. 67, § 2; P.L. 1974, ch. 146, § 1; P.L. 2000, ch. 170, § 2; P.L. 2003, ch. 185, § 4; P.L. 2003, ch. 189, § 4.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 30 - Military Affairs and Defense › Chapter 30-15 - Emergency Management › Section 30-15-4. - Limitations.

§ 30-15-4. Limitations.
Nothing in this chapter shall be construed:
(1)
To interfere with the course or conduct of a labor dispute except that actions otherwise authorized by this chapter or other laws may be taken when necessary to forestall or mitigate imminent or existing danger to public health or safety;
(2)
To interfere with dissemination of news or comment on public affairs; but any communications facility or organization (including, but not limited to, radio or television stations, wire services, and newspapers) may be required to transmit or print public service messages furnishing information or instructions in connection with a disaster emergency;
(3)
To affect the jurisdiction or responsibilities of police forces, firefighting forces, or units of the armed forces of the United States, or of any personnel thereof, when on active duty; but state and local disaster emergency plans shall place reliance upon the forces available for performance of functions related to disaster emergencies; or
(4)
To limit, modify, or abridge the authority of the governor to proclaim martial law or exercise any other powers vested in the governor under the constitution, statutes, or common law of this state independent of, or in conjunction with, any provisions of this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1973, ch. 67, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 30 - Military Affairs and Defense › Chapter 30-15 - Emergency Management › Section 30-15-5. - Emergency management preparedness agency created — Personnel — Facilities.

§ 30-15-5. Emergency management preparedness agency created — Personnel — Facilities.
(a)
There is hereby created within the executive department, the Rhode Island emergency management agency (hereinafter in this chapter called the “agency”), to be headed by a director, who shall be appointed by, and serve at the pleasure of, the governor and who shall be in the unclassified service.
(b)
The director may employ such technical, clerical, stenographic, and other personnel, all of whom shall be in the classified service, and may make such expenditures within the appropriation therefor, or from other funds made available for the purposes of this chapter, as may be necessary to carry out the purposes of this chapter, consistent with other applicable provisions of law.
(c)
The agency may provide itself with appropriate office space, furniture, equipment, supplies, stationery, and printing.
(d)
The director, subject to the direction and control of the governor, shall be the head of the agency, and shall be responsible to the governor for carrying out the program for disaster preparedness of this state. The director shall coordinate the activities of all organizations for disasters within the state and shall maintain liaison with and cooperate with disaster agencies and organizations of other states and of the federal government. The director shall have such additional authority, duties, and responsibilities authorized by this chapter as may be prescribed by the governor.
(e)
Wherever in the general or public laws, or any rule or regulation, any reference to the “executive director” shall appear, it shall be deemed to mean and shall mean “the director.”
History of Section.
P.L. 1973, ch. 67, § 2; P.L. 1996, ch. 100, ch. 41, § 1; P.L. 2000, ch. 170, § 2; P.L. 2014, ch. 145, art. 14, § 1; P.L. 2015, ch. 52, § 1; P.L. 2015, ch. 53, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 30 - Military Affairs and Defense › Chapter 30-15 - Emergency Management › Section 30-15-7. - Governor’s general powers.

§ 30-15-7. Governor’s general powers.
The governor shall be responsible for carrying out the provisions of this chapter and shall be primarily responsible for emergency management in the state. Aside from powers granted to the governor elsewhere, the governor is hereby specifically authorized to:
(1)
Issue executive orders, proclamations, and regulations and amend or rescind them. Executive orders, proclamations, and regulations, for the purposes of this chapter, have the force and effect of law;
(2)
Cooperate with the federal authorities and with the governors and/or officials of the other states in matters pertaining to the common disaster preparedness of the states and nation, and in exercising the powers under this chapter, the governor shall avoid duplications of, and conflicts with, the efforts of the federal authorities acting within their proper spheres;
(3)
Consider on a continuing basis steps that could be taken to prevent or reduce the harmful consequences of disasters. At the governor’s direction, and pursuant to any other authority they now have, state agencies, including, but not limited to, those that are or may be charged with responsibilities in connection with flood plain management, stream encroachment and flow regulation, weather modification, fire prevention and control, air quality, public works, land use and land-use planning, and construction standards, shall make studies of disaster-prevention-related matters. The governor, from time to time, shall make recommendations to the general assembly, local governments, and other appropriate public and private entities as may facilitate measures for mitigation of the harmful consequences of disasters;
(4)
Prepare a comprehensive plan and program for disasters (including response and recovery) in the state, the plan and program to be integrated into, and coordinated with, the response and disaster plans of other states to the fullest possible extent, and coordinate the preparation of plans and programs for disasters by the political subdivisions of the state, such plans to be integrated into, and coordinated with the state disaster plan and program to the fullest possible extent;
(5)
In accordance with the plans and programs for disasters in the state, procure supplies and equipment, to institute training programs and public information programs, and to take all other preparatory steps, including the partial or full mobilization of disaster organizations in advance of actual disaster, to ensure the furnishing of adequately trained and equipped forces of disaster personnel in time of need;
(6)
Delegate any administrative authority vested in the governor under this chapter and provide for the subsequent delegation of that authority; and
(7)
Do all other things necessary to ensure adequate preparation for disasters in the state, not inconsistent with other provisions of law.
History of Section.
P.L. 1973, ch. 67, § 2; P.L. 2000, ch. 170, § 2; P.L. 2016, ch. 511, art. 2, § 38.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 30 - Military Affairs and Defense › Chapter 30-15 - Emergency Management › Section 30-15-8. - Mobile support units.

§ 30-15-8. Mobile support units.
(a)
The governor, or the governor’s duly designated representative, is authorized to create and establish any number of mobile support units that may be necessary to reinforce disaster organizations in stricken areas with due consideration of the plans of the federal government and of other states. Mobile support units shall be called to duty upon orders of the governor and shall perform their functions in any part of the state or, upon the conditions specified in this section, in other states.
(b)(1)
Personnel of mobile support units while on duty, whether within or without the state, shall:
(i)
If they are employees of the state, have the powers, duties, rights, privileges, and immunities and receive the compensation incidental to their employment;
(ii)
If they are employees of a political subdivision of the state, and whether serving within or without the political subdivision, have the powers, duties, rights, privileges, and immunities and receive the compensation incidental to their employment; and
(iii)
If they are not employees of the state or a political subdivision thereof, be entitled to compensation by the state at a rate equivalent to the rate of compensation paid to jurors in state courts, and to the same rights and immunities as are provided by law for the employees of this state.
(2)
All personnel of mobile support units shall, while on duty, be subject to the operational control of the authority in charge of disaster activities in the area in which they are serving, and shall be reimbursed for all actual and necessary travel and subsistence expenses as if they were temporary state employees.
(c)
The state shall reimburse a political subdivision for the compensation paid and actual and necessary travel, subsistence, and maintenance expenses of the employees of a political subdivision while serving as members of a mobile support unit; and for all payments for death, disability, or injury of those employees incurred in the course of such duty; and for all losses of, or damage to, supplies and equipment of such political subdivision resulting from the operation of that mobile support unit.
History of Section.
P.L. 1973, ch. 67, § 2; P.L. 2000, ch. 170, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 30 - Military Affairs and Defense › Chapter 30-15 - Emergency Management › Section 30-15-10. - Financing — Disaster emergency funding board established.

§ 30-15-10. Financing — Disaster emergency funding board established.
(a)
It is the intent of the general assembly and declared to be the policy of the state that funds to meet disaster emergencies shall always be available.
(b)
A disaster emergency funding board is hereby established, composed of the president of the senate, the speaker of the house, and the chairpersons of the senate and house finance committees.
(c)
It is the legislative intent that the first recourse shall be to funds regularly appropriated to state and local agencies. If the governor finds that the demands placed upon these funds in coping with a particular disaster are unreasonably great, with the concurrence of the disaster emergency funding board, he or she may make funds available by transferring and expending moneys appropriated for other purposes or may borrow for a term not to exceed two (2) years from the United States government or any other private source.
(d)
Nothing contained in this section shall be construed to limit the governor’s authority to apply for, administer, and expend any grants, gifts, or payments, in aid of disaster prevention, preparedness, response, or recovery.
History of Section.
P.L. 1973, ch. 67, § 2; P.L. 2001, ch. 180, § 61.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 30 - Military Affairs and Defense › Chapter 30-15 - Emergency Management › Section 30-15-12. - Local emergency management.

§ 30-15-12. Local emergency management.
(a)
Each city and town of the state shall establish, through local ordinance, a comparable agency, headed by a director, similar to the statewide disaster agency, with powers and duties within their respective jurisdictions similar to those of the agency. This agency shall be known as the “(here insert the name of the city or town) emergency management agency”. Local agencies shall cooperate with and assist the agency and shall perform such services as may be requested by it. Local agencies may act jointly with other such agencies.
(b)
The chief executive officer of each city or town has powers and duties with respect to emergency management within his or her city or town similar to those of the governor on the state level, not inconsistent with other provisions of law.
History of Section.
P.L. 1973, ch. 67, § 2; P.L. 2000, ch. 170, § 2; P.L. 2016, ch. 511, art. 2, § 38.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 30 - Military Affairs and Defense › Chapter 30-15 - Emergency Management › Section 30-15-13. - Local disaster emergencies.

§ 30-15-13. Local disaster emergencies.
(a)
A local disaster emergency may be declared only by the principal executive officer of a political subdivision. It shall not be continued or renewed for a period in excess of seven (7) days except by, or with the consent of, the governing board of the political subdivision. Any order or proclamation declaring, continuing, or terminating a local disaster emergency shall be given prompt and general publicity and shall be filed promptly with the city or town clerk.
(b)
The effect of a declaration of a local disaster emergency is to activate the mitigation response and recovery aspects of any and all applicable local disaster emergency plans and to authorize the furnishing of aid and assistance thereunder.
History of Section.
P.L. 1973, ch. 67, § 2; P.L. 2000, ch. 170, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 30 - Military Affairs and Defense › Chapter 30-15 - Emergency Management › Section 30-15-15. - Immunity from liability — Compensation for death or injury of disaster response workers.

§ 30-15-15. Immunity from liability — Compensation for death or injury of disaster response workers.
(a)
All functions under this chapter, and all other activities relating to disaster response, are hereby declared to be governmental functions. Neither the state, nor any political subdivision thereof, nor other agencies of the state or political subdivision thereof, nor, except in cases of willful misconduct, gross negligence, or bad faith, any disaster response worker complying with, or reasonably attempting to comply with this chapter, or any order, rule, or regulation promulgated pursuant to the provisions of this chapter, or pursuant to any ordinance relating to precautionary measures enacted by any political subdivision of the state, shall be liable for the death of, or injury to, persons, or for damage to property, as a result of disaster response activity. The provisions of this section shall not affect the right of any person to receive benefits to which he or she would otherwise be entitled under this chapter, nor under the Workers’ Compensation Act, chapters 29 — 38 of title 28, nor under any pension law, nor the right of any person to receive any benefits or compensation under any act of Congress.
(b)
Any requirement for a license to practice any professional, mechanical, or other skill shall not apply to any authorized disaster response worker who shall, in the course of performing his or her duties as such, practice such professional, mechanical, or other skill during a disaster emergency.
(c)
In the absence of any other benefits as provided by law, all disaster response workers who shall be killed or sustain disability or injury while in training for or on disaster response duty shall be construed to be employees of the state, any other provisions of the law to the contrary notwithstanding, and shall be compensated in like manner as state employees are compensated under the provisions of chapters 29 — 38 of title 28.
(d)
As used in this section, the term “disaster response worker” shall include any full- or part-time paid, volunteer, or auxiliary employee of this state, other states, territories, or possessions, the District of Columbia, the federal government, any neighboring country, or any political subdivision thereof, or any agency or organization, or any private person, firm, or corporation performing disaster response services at any place in this state subject to the order or control of, or pursuant to a request of, the state government or any political subdivision thereof.
History of Section.
P.L. 1973, ch. 67, § 2; P.L. 2003, ch. 185, § 4; P.L. 2003, ch. 189, § 4; P.L. 2016, ch. 511, art. 2, § 38.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 30 - Military Affairs and Defense › Chapter 30-15 - Emergency Management › Section 30-15-16. - No private liability.

§ 30-15-16. No private liability.
Any person controlling real estate or other premises who voluntarily, and without compensation, grants a license or privilege, or otherwise permits the designation or use of the whole or any part or parts of that real estate or premises for the purpose of sheltering persons during an actual, impending, mock, or practice disaster shall, together with his or her successors in interest, if any, not be civilly liable for negligently causing the death of, or injury to, any person on or about the real estate or premises or for the loss of, or damage to, the property of that person.
History of Section.
P.L. 1973, ch. 67, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 30 - Military Affairs and Defense › Chapter 30-15 - Emergency Management › Section 30-15-17. - Severability.

§ 30-15-17. Severability.
If any part, subdivision, or section of this chapter shall be declared unconstitutional, the validity of the remaining parts thereof shall not be affected thereby. If any provision of this chapter, or the application of that provision to any person or circumstance, is held invalid, the remainder of the chapter and the application of that provision to other persons or circumstances shall not be affected thereby.
History of Section.
P.L. 1973, ch. 67, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 30 - Military Affairs and Defense › Chapter 30-15 - Emergency Management › Section 30-15-18. - Enforcement.

§ 30-15-18. Enforcement.
It shall be the duty of every organization for disaster preparedness and response established pursuant to this chapter, and of the officers thereof, to execute and enforce such orders, rules, and regulations as may be made by the governor under authority of this chapter. Each organization shall have available for inspection at its office all orders, rules, and regulations made by the governor or under his or her authority.
History of Section.
P.L. 1973, ch. 67, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 30 - Military Affairs and Defense › Chapter 30-15 - Emergency Management › Section 30-15-19. - Construction of chapter.

§ 30-15-19. Construction of chapter.
This chapter shall be construed liberally, but those charged with the exercise or enforcement of its great powers are directed to act with restraint and moderation and with strict regard to the rights of the people.
History of Section.
P.L. 1973, ch. 67, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 30 - Military Affairs and Defense › Chapter 30-15 - Emergency Management › Section 30-15-20. - References to agency predecessor.

§ 30-15-20. References to agency predecessor.
Wherever in any general or public law, the words “state council of defense”, “Rhode Island state council of defense”, or “council of defense” shall appear, these words shall mean and include the “Rhode Island emergency management agency” as established by this chapter. The “Rhode Island emergency management agency”, renamed by the action of this chapter, is hereby declared to be the successor to the Rhode Island state council of defense. All provisions of law shall, so far as applicable, be so construed.
History of Section.
P.L. 1973, ch. 67, § 2; P.L. 2000, ch. 170, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 30 - Military Affairs and Defense › Chapter 30-15 - Emergency Management › Section 30-15-21. - Penalties.

§ 30-15-21. Penalties.
Any person violating any provisions of this chapter or any rule, order, or regulation promulgated pursuant to this chapter shall upon conviction thereof be punishable by a fine not exceeding five hundred dollars ($500), or imprisonment not exceeding ninety (90) days, or both.
History of Section.
P.L. 1979, ch. 213, § 1; P.L. 2016, ch. 511, art. 2, § 38.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 30 - Military Affairs and Defense › Chapter 30-15 - Emergency Management › Section 30-15-22. - Repealed.

§ 30-15-22. Repealed.
History of Section.
P.L. 1985, ch. 181, art. 29, § 17; P.L. 1996, ch. 100, art. 41, § 1; Repealed by P.L. 2000, ch. 170, § 3, effective July 13, 2000.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 30 - Military Affairs and Defense › Chapter 30-15 - Emergency Management › Section 30-15-41. - Approval of emergency response plans for the transportation of liquefied natural gas.

§ 30-15-41. Approval of emergency response plans for the transportation of liquefied natural gas.
(a) Findings.
The general assembly hereby recognizes the paramount importance of establishing an emergency response plan for the transportation of liquefied natural gas within the state. The general assembly hereby also declares that the establishment of the emergency response plan is in the interest of the public health, safety, and welfare as a means to protect against the potential hazards presented by the transportation of liquefied natural gas.
(b)
No emergency response plan for the transportation of liquefied natural gas through the waters of Narragansett Bay and/or Mount Hope Bay shall be issued or implemented by the Rhode Island emergency management agency prior to the approval of the aforementioned emergency response plan by the general assembly and the city or town councils of Bristol, Jamestown, Middletown, Newport, Portsmouth, Tiverton, and Warren.
History of Section.
P.L. 2008, ch. 208, § 1; P.L. 2016, ch. 511, art. 2, § 38.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 30 - Military Affairs and Defense › Chapter 30-15 - Emergency Management › Section 30-15-42. - Committee created — Purpose and composition.

§ 30-15-42. Committee created — Purpose and composition.
(a)
There is hereby created within the Rhode Island emergency management agency a committee consisting of twenty-one (21) members, pursuant to the provisions of § 30-15-2 of this chapter, the interoperable communications committee (ICC), for the purpose of addressing the challenges associated with the statewide communications interoperability.
(b)
The interoperable communications committee (hereinafter referred to as the “committee”) shall consist of the following members who shall assemble no less than twelve (12) times annually or more often at the call of the chairperson or upon petition of a majority of its members:
(1)
The adjutant general of the Rhode Island national guard, or his/her designee;
(2)
The president of the Rhode Island Fire Chief’s Association, or his/her designee;
(3)
The president of the Rhode Island Police Chief’s Association, or his/her designee;
(4)
The executive director of the Rhode Island emergency management agency, or his/her designee;
(5)
A representative from a Rhode Island Level 1 trauma center designated by the president of the facility;
(6)
The chairperson of the Hospital Association of Rhode Island (HARI), or his/her designee;
(7)
The director of the city of Providence communications division, or his/her designee;
(8)
A representative of the Rhode Island statewide communications network (RISCON) system north zone appointed by the executive director of the Rhode Island emergency management agency;
(9)
A representative of the Rhode Island statewide communications network (RISCON) system south zone appointed by the executive director of the Rhode Island emergency management agency;
(10)
The colonel/superintendent of the Rhode Island state police, or his/her designee;
(11)
The director of the Rhode Island department of environmental management, or his/her designee;
(12)
The director of the Rhode Island department of transportation, or his/her designee;
(13)
The director of the Rhode Island department of corrections, or his/her designee;
(14)
The director of the Rhode Island department of information technology, or his/her designee;
(15)
The director of the Rhode Island department of health, or his/her designee;
(16)
The director of the Rhode Island public transit authority, or his/her designee;
(17)
The director of the Rhode Island bridge and turnpike authority, or his/her designee;
(18)
The associate director of the Rhode Island E-911 system, or his/her designee;
(19)
Chief Sachem of the Narragansett Indian Tribe, or his/her designee;
and two (2) members appointed by the executive director of the Rhode Island emergency management agency.
Each member of the committee may appoint a permanent designee to attend committee meetings in his/her absence. A quorum at meetings of the committee shall consist of a majority of its current membership.
History of Section.
P.L. 2009, ch. 104, § 1; P.L. 2009, ch. 107, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 30 - Military Affairs and Defense › Chapter 30-15 - Emergency Management › Section 30-15-43. - Statewide interoperable communications system.

§ 30-15-43. Statewide interoperable communications system.
The Rhode Island emergency management agency is hereby authorized and empowered to provide for the installation, operation, and maintenance of a statewide interoperable communications system for the purpose of promptly collecting, exchanging, disseminating, and distributing information relating to police, fire, first responder, and first-receiving health care facilities of the state. The system is to be installed, operated, and maintained in such cities and towns and entities as have organized systems and may connect directly or indirectly with similar systems in other states in accordance with rules and regulations as promulgated by the Rhode Island emergency management agency. These rules and regulations shall be reviewed and revised from time to time by the interoperable communications committee as established in § 30-15-42. The Rhode Island emergency management agency is authorized to provide, for the location of the receiving system sites and to employ the necessary personnel for its operation. The system shall be called the Rhode Island statewide communications network (RISCON). The state departments and agencies and the cities and towns are authorized to provide through federal funding when available and general revenue when allocated, within the appropriations provided by law, for the location of equipment and for the personnel and supplies for their proper operation. The character of communication sent, and the time, place, and manner of sending messages, and all matters in connection with the RISCON system, shall be under the control and management of the executive director of the Rhode Island emergency management agency.
History of Section.
P.L. 2009, ch. 104, § 1; P.L. 2009, ch. 107, § 1; P.L. 2016, ch. 511, art. 2, § 38.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 30 - Military Affairs and Defense › Chapter 30-15 - Emergency Management › Section 30-15-45. - Essential mental health and substance use disorder services.

§ 30-15-45. Essential mental health and substance use disorder services.
During any declared state or local disaster emergency pursuant to this chapter, mental health and substance use disorder services provided by Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous, or other agencies that provide similar services to those seeking support for substance use disorders shall be considered an essential health benefit and the services provided thereby shall be permitted during the disaster emergency; provided, that adequate measures are implemented to provide the services safely within whatever guidelines may be established to address the issues relative to the declared disaster emergency.
History of Section.
P.L. 2021, ch. 416, § 1, effective July 14, 2021; P.L. 2021, ch. 417, § 1, effective July 14, 2021.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 30 - Military Affairs and Defense › Chapter 30-15.1 - Emergency Location of State Government › Section 30-15.1-1. - Declaration — Transition of affairs.

§ 30-15.1-1. Declaration — Transition of affairs.
Whenever, due to an emergency resulting from the effects of a disaster, or the anticipated effects of a potential disaster, it becomes imprudent, inexpedient, or impossible to conduct the affairs of state government at the normal location of the seat thereof in the city of Providence, county of Providence, state of Rhode Island, the governor shall, as often as the exigencies of the situation require, by executive order or proclamation, declare an emergency temporary location, or locations, for the seat of government at such a place, or places, within or without this state as he or she may deem advisable under the circumstances, and shall take such action and issue such orders as may be necessary for an orderly transition of the affairs of state government to that emergency temporary location or locations. The emergency temporary location, or locations, shall remain as the seat of government until the general assembly shall by law establish a new location, or locations, or until the emergency is declared to be ended by the governor and the seat of government is returned to its normal location.
History of Section.
P.L. 1963, ch. 17, § 1; P.L. 2000, ch. 170, § 4.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 30 - Military Affairs and Defense › Chapter 30-15.1 - Emergency Location of State Government › Section 30-15.1-2. - Validity of acts performed at emergency location.

§ 30-15.1-2. Validity of acts performed at emergency location.
During the time the seat of government remains at the emergency temporary location, or locations, all official acts now or hereafter required by law to be performed at the seat of government by any officer, agency, or department of authority of this state, including the convening and meeting of the general assembly in regular, extraordinary, or emergency session, shall be as valid and binding when performed at the emergency temporary location, or locations, as if performed at the normal location of the seat of government.
History of Section.
G.L. 1956, § 30-15.1-2; P.L. 1963, ch. 17, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 30 - Military Affairs and Defense › Chapter 30-15.1 - Emergency Location of State Government › Section 30-15.1-3. - Chapter controlling.

§ 30-15.1-3. Chapter controlling.
The provisions of this chapter shall control and be supreme in the event it shall be employed, notwithstanding the provisions of any other law to the contrary or in conflict herewith.
History of Section.
G.L. 1956, § 30-15.1-3; P.L. 1963, ch. 17, § 1.