Rhode Island § 42-12-22 - Department of Human Services
Full text of Rhode Island Rhode Island General Laws § 42-12-22 — Department of Human Services, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 42-12-22. Department of Human Services
R.I. Gen. Laws § 42-12-22
§ 42-12-22. Confidentiality of personal information — Authorized uses.
(a) All personal information contained in the records of the department of human services which is identifiable to an applicant for or recipient of vocational rehabilitation services under this chapter is hereby declared to constitute a confidential matter. Except as expressly provided herein, it shall be unlawful for any person to make use of, or cause to be used, any of such personal information contained in the records of the department of human services for purposes not directly connected with the administration of the vocational rehabilitation programs of the department of human services. The director of the department of human services shall have the power to establish rules and regulations governing the custody, preservation, disclosure, or release of the records, papers, files, and communications containing that personal information.
(b) The department shall release or disclose the personal information described in subsection (a):
(1) Upon the written request of the applicant or recipient, or their authorized representative; or
(2) If required by federal law or regulations; or
(3) In response to law enforcement investigations and fraud or abuse investigations, except where release or disclosure is expressly prohibited by federal or state law or regulations; or
(4) In response to judicial order.
Provided, however, that when the personal information has been obtained by the department from another department, agency, organization, or individual, it shall be released by, or under the conditions established by, the other department, agency organization, or individual. Nothing in this section shall be deemed to prohibit the director of the department of human services, or the director’s agents duly authorized for that purpose, from issuing any statistical material or data, or publishing or causing the same to be published whenever he or she shall deem it to be in the public interest.
History of Section.
P.L. 1988, ch. 98, § 1.
Source: official Rhode Island text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Rhode Island § 42-12-22
What does Rhode Island General Laws § 42-12-22 cover?
Section 42-12-22 ("Department of Human Services") 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 § 42-12-22?
A common citation format is "Rhode Island General Laws § 42-12-22" (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 § 42-12-22 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.