Rhode Island § 39-2-4 - Duties of Utilities and Carriers
Full text of Rhode Island Rhode Island General Laws § 39-2-4 — Duties of Utilities and Carriers, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 39-2-4. Duties of Utilities and Carriers
R.I. Gen. Laws § 39-2-4
§ 39-2-4. Acceptance of unlawful rebates or advantages.
It shall be unlawful for any person, firm, or corporation knowingly to solicit, accept, or receive any rebate, concession, or discrimination in respect to any service in, affecting, or relating to the transportation of persons or property, or affecting or relating to the distribution of electricity, or the production, transmission, delivery, or furnishing of heat or water, or the conveyance of telephone or telegraph messages within this state, or for any service in connection therewith, whereby the service shall, by any device whatsoever or otherwise, be rendered free, or at a less rate than that named in the published schedules and tariffs in force, as provided therein, or whereby any service or advantage is received other than is herein specified. Any person, firm, or corporation violating the provisions of this section shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and upon conviction thereof shall be punished by a fine of not less than fifty dollars ($50.00) nor more than five hundred dollars ($500) for each offense.
History of Section.
P.L. 1912, ch. 795, § 41; G.L. 1923, ch. 253, § 41; G.L. 1938, ch. 122, § 38; G.L.
1956, § 39-2-4; P.L. 1971, ch. 265, § 4; P.L. 1972, ch. 205, § 4; P.L. 1996, ch. 316,
§ 1.
Source: official Rhode Island text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Rhode Island § 39-2-4
What does Rhode Island General Laws § 39-2-4 cover?
Section 39-2-4 ("Duties of Utilities and Carriers") 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 § 39-2-4?
A common citation format is "Rhode Island General Laws § 39-2-4" (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 § 39-2-4 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.