Rhode Island § 15-1-9 - Persons Eligible to Marry
Full text of Rhode Island Rhode Island General Laws § 15-1-9 — Persons Eligible to Marry, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 15-1-9. Persons Eligible to Marry
R.I. Gen. Laws § 15-1-9
§ 15-1-9. Applicability of state laws to marriages not recognized by federal law.
(a) Any provision of Rhode Island law that refers to, adopts, or relies upon provisions of federal law, including, but not limited to, those in title 44, shall apply to parties recognized as married under the laws of this state, as if federal laws recognized such marriages in the same manner as Rhode Island law.
(b) Notwithstanding the unavailability of federal financial participation, no person who is recognized as a spouse under the laws of this state shall be denied benefits that are otherwise available to spouses under Rhode Island law, including, but not limited to, those in chapters 40-8 to 40-8.10 inclusive, due to the provisions of 1 U.S.C. § 7 or any other federal non-recognition of spouses of the same sex.
History of Section.
P.L. 2013, ch. 4, § 2; P.L. 2013, ch. 5, § 2.
Source: official Rhode Island text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Rhode Island § 15-1-9
What does Rhode Island General Laws § 15-1-9 cover?
Section 15-1-9 ("Persons Eligible to Marry") 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 § 15-1-9?
A common citation format is "Rhode Island General Laws § 15-1-9" (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 § 15-1-9 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.