Rhode Island § 16-20-3 - Holidays and Days of Special Observance

Full text of Rhode Island Rhode Island General Laws § 16-20-3 — Holidays and Days of Special Observance, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 16-20-3. Holidays and Days of Special Observance

R.I. Gen. Laws § 16-20-3

§ 16-20-3. Days of special observance — Duty of teachers and officials.

The twelfth day of February (as Grand Army Flag Day, in honor of the birthday of Abraham Lincoln), the last Friday in April (as Arbor Day), the fourth day of May (as Rhode Island Independence Day), the thirteenth day of September (as Commodore John Barry Day), and each of these days in every year, or when any of these days shall fall on Saturday then the day preceding, or on Sunday then the day following, shall be especially observed with appropriate exercises in all the schools of this state; and it shall be the duty of teachers and school officers to make suitable provisions for the proper observance of these days.

History of Section.
P.L. 1914, ch. 1071, § 2; G.L. 1923, ch. 75, § 2; P.L. 1936, ch. 2282, § 2; G.L. 1938, ch. 191, § 2; P.L. 1945, ch. 1535, § 1; P.L. 1950, ch. 2453, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 16-20-3.

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

Frequently Asked Questions About Rhode Island § 16-20-3

What does Rhode Island General Laws § 16-20-3 cover?

Section 16-20-3 ("Holidays and Days of Special Observance") 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 § 16-20-3?

A common citation format is "Rhode Island General Laws § 16-20-3" (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 § 16-20-3 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.