Rhode Island § 5-49-1 - Hearing Aid Dealers and Fitters
Full text of Rhode Island Rhode Island General Laws § 5-49-1 — Hearing Aid Dealers and Fitters, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 5-49-1. Hearing Aid Dealers and Fitters
R.I. Gen. Laws § 5-49-1
§ 5-49-1. Definitions.
As used in this chapter, except as the context may require:
(1) “Audiologist” means an individual licensed to practice audiology by the department of health.
(2) “Board” means the board of hearing aid dealers and fitters.
(3) “Department” means the department of health.
(4) “Hearing aid” means any wearable instrument or device designed for or offered for the purpose of aiding or compensating for impaired human hearing, and any parts, attachments, or accessories, including ear molds, but excluding batteries and cords.
(5) “License” means a license issued by the state under this chapter to hearing aid dealers and fitters.
(6) “Practice of fitting and dealing in hearing aids” means the evaluation and measurement of human hearing by means of an audiometer or by any other means solely for the purpose of making selections, adaptations, or sale of hearing aids, including ordering the use of hearing aids. The term also includes the making of impressions for ear molds. This term does not include the making of audiograms for a physician or a member of related professions for use in consultation with the hard of hearing.
(7) “Sell” or “sale” means any transfer of title or of the right to use by lease, bailment, or any other contract, excluding wholesale transactions with distributors or dealers.
(8) “Temporary permit” means a permit issued while the applicant is in training to become a licensed hearing aid dealer and fitter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1973, ch. 243, § 1; P.L. 1996, ch. 174, § 1; P.L. 2023, ch. 89, § 1, effective
June 19, 2023; P.L. 2023, ch. 90, § 1, effective June 19, 2023.
Source: official Rhode Island text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Rhode Island § 5-49-1
What does Rhode Island General Laws § 5-49-1 cover?
Section 5-49-1 ("Hearing Aid Dealers and Fitters") 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 § 5-49-1?
A common citation format is "Rhode Island General Laws § 5-49-1" (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 § 5-49-1 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.