R.I. Gen. Laws § 23-7.1-2
The purpose of this chapter is to regulate the systematic control and eradication of rodents in the state so as to promote the public health, welfare, and safety, and to prevent injury, disease, or detriment to human life. It shall be the responsibility of the local communities to institute rodent control programs; however, since an effective rodent control program requires close cooperation between the local communities and the state department of health in planning and carrying out any rodent control program, this chapter requires the department of health to cooperate with local communities in developing and carrying out rodent control programs and to promulgate regulations establishing minimum standards which must be followed by all local communities in the state. This chapter also establishes incentives that encourage local communities to undertake more comprehensive rodent control programs.
R.I. Gen. Laws § 23-7.1-2