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Rhode Island law

Administrative Laws in Rhode Island.

Rhode Island administrative law is governed by the Administrative Procedures Act (R.I. Gen. Laws § 42-35-1 et seq.), which governs rulemaking, contested cases, and judicial review of state agency action. Rules are published in the Rhode Island Code of Regulations. Contested cases are heard by agency hearing officers. Final agency decisions are reviewable in Superior Court.

Last verified: 2026-04-17

State law

Key Rhode Island Statutes

Administrative Procedures ActR.I. Gen. Laws § 42-35-1 et seq.

Rhode Island's APA governs rulemaking and contested cases. Rulemaking requires notice in the Rhode Island Register, public hearing opportunity, and publication.

Judicial ReviewR.I. Gen. Laws § 42-35-15

Final agency decisions are reviewable in Superior Court. Standard: whether the decision is supported by reliable, probative, and substantial evidence, not arbitrary or capricious.

Rhode Island Code of RegulationsR.I. Gen. Laws § 42-35-4

Official compilation of state agency rules.

State law

Official Sources

Not Legal Advice

This page summarizes publicly available statutes and rules for informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice, and no attorney-client relationship is created by viewing this content. Laws change — always verify with the primary source or consult a licensed attorney in Rhode Island.

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