Rhode Island § 16-12-10 - Rights and Duties of Teachers Generally

Full text of Rhode Island Rhode Island General Laws § 16-12-10 — Rights and Duties of Teachers Generally, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 16-12-10. Rights and Duties of Teachers Generally

R.I. Gen. Laws § 16-12-10

§ 16-12-10. Immunity for reports of suspected substance abuse.

Any teacher, school administrator, school guidance counselor, school psychologist, school drug counselor, school nurse, supervisor of attendance, attendance teacher, or attendance officer having reasonable cause to suspect that an elementary or secondary school student is abusing a controlled substance or alcohol, or is under the influence of a dangerous drug or alcohol, or has in his or her possession a controlled substance or alcohol, who reports this information to the appropriate elementary or secondary school officials pursuant to the school’s drug policy, or if the school has no drug policy to the school’s principal or the parents of the student under eighteen (18) years of age, or to a police agency, shall have immunity from any civil liability that might otherwise be incurred or imposed as a result of the making of the report.

History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 323, § 1; P.L. 1987, ch. 317, § 1.

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

Frequently Asked Questions About Rhode Island § 16-12-10

What does Rhode Island General Laws § 16-12-10 cover?

Section 16-12-10 ("Rights and Duties of Teachers Generally") 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 § 16-12-10?

A common citation format is "Rhode Island General Laws § 16-12-10" (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 § 16-12-10 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.