250 R.I. Code R. 250-RICR-40-05-5.5
The Department finds that the citizens of the state are generally concerned with the welfare of all animals within the state. The Department also finds that the citizens of the state generally favor the development of an administrative process for the Department to ensure the welfare of the animals within the state. The Department promulgated Rules and Regulations governing animal care facilities in 2015 to address the welfare of pet type animals being kept in commercial facilities. However, there is a lack of administrative oversight related to the minimum standards of care for livestock; animals that are also kept for commercial purposes. Therefore, the Department seeks to establish minimum care standards for livestock within the state consistent with the recommendation received by the Department from the Rhode Island Livestock and Welfare Standards Advisory Council. These Rules and Regulations will serve as guidance for animal caretakers as well as a means of enforcement to ensure that livestock species are being properly cared for.
250 R.I. Code R. 250-RICR-40-05-5.5