Rhode Island § 21-31-5 - Rhode Island Food, Drugs, and Cosmetics Act
Full text of Rhode Island Rhode Island General Laws § 21-31-5 — Rhode Island Food, Drugs, and Cosmetics Act, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 21-31-5. Rhode Island Food, Drugs, and Cosmetics Act
R.I. Gen. Laws § 21-31-5
§ 21-31-5. Violations of chapter — Penalty — Exceptions.
(a) Any person who violates any of the provisions of § 21-31-3 shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction shall be subject to imprisonment for not more than six (6) months or a fine of not more than five hundred dollars ($500), or both imprisonment and fine; but if the violation is committed after a conviction of that person under this section has become final, the person shall be subject to imprisonment for not more than one year or a fine of not more than one thousand dollars ($1,000), or both that imprisonment and fine.
(b) No person shall be subject to the penalties of subsection (a) of this section for having violated § 21-31-3(1) or (3) if that person establishes a guaranty or undertaking signed by, and containing the name and address of, the person residing in the state of Rhode Island from whom the person received the article in good faith, to the effect that the article is not adulterated or misbranded within the meaning of this chapter, designating this chapter.
(c) No publisher, radio broadcast licensee, or agency or medium for the dissemination of an advertisement, except the manufacturer, packer, distributor, or seller of the article to which a false advertisement relates, shall be liable under this section by reason of the dissemination by that person of a false advertisement, unless he or she has refused the request of the director of health to furnish the director of health the name and post office address of the manufacturer, packer, distributor, seller, or advertising agency residing in the state of Rhode Island who caused the person to disseminate the false advertisement.
History of Section.
P.L. 1959, ch. 56, § 1.
Source: official Rhode Island text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Rhode Island § 21-31-5
What does Rhode Island General Laws § 21-31-5 cover?
Section 21-31-5 ("Rhode Island Food, Drugs, and Cosmetics 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 § 21-31-5?
A common citation format is "Rhode Island General Laws § 21-31-5" (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 § 21-31-5 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.