Rhode Island § 23-3-12 - Vital Records
Full text of Rhode Island Rhode Island General Laws § 23-3-12 — Vital Records, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 23-3-12. Vital Records
R.I. Gen. Laws § 23-3-12
§ 23-3-12. Delayed registration of births.
(a) When the birth of a person born in this state or adopted by residents of this state has not been registered, a certificate may be filed in accordance with regulations of the state department of health. This certificate shall be registered subject to evidentiary requirements that the state department of health shall by regulation prescribe to substantiate the alleged facts of birth.
(b) Certificates of birth registered one year or more after the date of occurrence shall be marked “delayed” and show on their face the date of the delayed registration.
(c) A summary statement of the evidence submitted in support of the delayed registration shall be endorsed on the certificate.
(d)(1) When an applicant does not submit the minimum documentation required in the regulations for delayed registration or when the state registrar of vital records finds reason to question the validity or adequacy of the certificate or the documentary evidence, the state registrar of vital records shall not register the delayed certificate and shall advise the applicant of the reasons for this action.
(2) The state director of health may by regulation provide for the dismissal of an application that is not actively prosecuted.
History of Section.
P.L. 1961, ch. 87, § 1; P.L. 1986, ch. 193, § 1.
Source: official Rhode Island text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Rhode Island § 23-3-12
What does Rhode Island General Laws § 23-3-12 cover?
Section 23-3-12 ("Vital Records") 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 § 23-3-12?
A common citation format is "Rhode Island General Laws § 23-3-12" (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 § 23-3-12 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.