Rhode Island § 4-1-43 - Cruelty to Animals
Full text of Rhode Island Rhode Island General Laws § 4-1-43 — Cruelty to Animals, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 4-1-43. Cruelty to Animals
R.I. Gen. Laws § 4-1-43
§ 4-1-43. Use of bullhooks or similar devices on elephants prohibited.
(a) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, any person who houses, possesses, or is in direct contact with an elephant utilized in a traveling show shall not:
(1) Use a bullhook, ankus, baseball bat, axe handle, pitchfork, or similar device designed to inflict pain for the purpose of training or controlling the behavior of an elephant; or
(2) Permit an employee, agent, or contractor to use a bullhook, ankus, baseball bat, axe handle, pitchfork, or similar device designed to inflict pain for the purpose of training or controlling the behavior of an elephant.
(b) For purposes of this section “traveling show” means a circus, public show, trade show, photographic opportunity, carnival, city or county fair, ride, parade, race, performance or similar undertaking that involves transporting elephants from location to location or otherwise moves elephants away from a place of permanent residency for performance purposes. The term “traveling show” does not include the transportation of an elephant between nonprofit United States Department of Agriculture licensed sanctuaries for the purpose of providing lifetime care.
(c) Any person who violates the provisions of this section shall be fined not more than five thousand dollars ($5,000) per violation, or imprisoned for not more than one year, or by both such fine and imprisonment.
History of Section.
P.L. 2016, ch. 506, § 1.
Source: official Rhode Island text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Rhode Island § 4-1-43
What does Rhode Island General Laws § 4-1-43 cover?
Section 4-1-43 ("Cruelty to Animals") 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 § 4-1-43?
A common citation format is "Rhode Island General Laws § 4-1-43" (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 § 4-1-43 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.