Rhode Island § 16-19-3 - Compulsory Attendance [See Title 16 Chapter 97 — The Rhode Island Board of Education Act]

Full text of Rhode Island Rhode Island General Laws § 16-19-3 — Compulsory Attendance [See Title 16 Chapter 97 — The Rhode Island Board of Education Act], with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 16-19-3. Compulsory Attendance [See Title 16 Chapter 97 — The Rhode Island Board of Education Act]

R.I. Gen. Laws § 16-19-3

§ 16-19-3. Appointment and compensation of truant officers — Supplies and assistance — Joint officers — Tenure.

The school committee of each city or town shall annually in the month of December appoint one or more persons as truant officers, who shall by virtue of their appointment be clothed with the power of special constables, and fix their compensation, which shall be payable from the appropriation for public schools. The school committee may also furnish all necessary supplies and clerical assistance for the proper and efficient performance of the duties of the truant officer. The school committee of two (2) or more cities or towns may appoint the same truant officer or officers, and any school committee that appoints other employees on a different tenure of office than annual appointments may appoint truant officers on a similar tenure in lieu of the annual appointment mentioned in this section and may fix their compensation from time to time.

History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 64, § 3; P.L. 1901, ch. 924, § 1; P.L. 1902, ch. 1009, § 1; G.L. 1909, ch. 72, § 3; G.L. 1923, ch. 76, § 2; G.L. 1938, ch. 181, § 2; impl. am. P.L. 1946, ch. 1775, § 2; G.L. 1956, § 16-19-3.

Source: official Rhode Island text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About Rhode Island § 16-19-3

What does Rhode Island General Laws § 16-19-3 cover?

Section 16-19-3 ("Compulsory Attendance [See Title 16 Chapter 97 — The Rhode Island Board of Education Act]") is part of the Rhode Island General Laws, the codified statutory law of Rhode Island. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Rhode Island § 16-19-3?

A common citation format is "Rhode Island General Laws § 16-19-3" (Rhode Island). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Rhode Island law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Rhode Island official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Rhode Island attorney.

How does Rhode Island § 16-19-3 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Rhode Island can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Rhode Island.