Rhode Island § 45-12-2 - Indebtedness of Towns and Cities

Full text of Rhode Island Rhode Island General Laws § 45-12-2 — Indebtedness of Towns and Cities, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 45-12-2. Indebtedness of Towns and Cities

R.I. Gen. Laws § 45-12-2

§ 45-12-2. Maximum aggregate indebtedness.

Except as provided in § 45-12-11, no city or town shall, without special statutory authority, or ministerial approval as provided for in § 45-12-2.1 incur any debt for money borrowed which would increase its aggregate outstanding principal indebtedness not excepted by law from the provisions of this section to an amount greater than three percent (3%) of the full assessed value of the taxable property within the city or town, but the amount of any borrowing in anticipation of taxes which is authorized or validated by § 45-12-4, and the amount of any fund held on account to pay such outstanding indebtedness shall be deducted in computing that indebtedness. In computing the value of taxable property for purposes of this section motor vehicles and trailers shall be valued at full value and without regard to the assessed value reductions provided for in § 44-34.1-1 [repealed]. Any city or town may, without special statutory authority, incur debt to an aggregate amount, as with the other outstanding indebtedness of the city or town not deductible under the foregoing provisions, which shall not exceed the limitation contained in this section.

History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 36, § 21; G.L. 1909, ch. 46, § 21; G.L. 1923, ch. 47, § 22; P.L. 1930, ch. 1617, § 1; P.L. 1932, ch. 1944, § 1; G.L. 1938, ch. 329, § 25; P.L. 1945, ch. 1663, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 45-12-2; P.L. 2007, ch. 252, § 1; P.L. 2007, ch. 292, § 1.

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

Frequently Asked Questions About Rhode Island § 45-12-2

What does Rhode Island General Laws § 45-12-2 cover?

Section 45-12-2 ("Indebtedness of Towns and Cities") 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 § 45-12-2?

A common citation format is "Rhode Island General Laws § 45-12-2" (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 § 45-12-2 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.