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Rhode Island General Laws Title 23. Health and Safety § 23-10.1-2. Definitions

Current as of January 01, 2026 | Updated by Findlaw Staff

Whenever used in this chapter, or in any order, rule, or regulation made or promulgated pursuant to this chapter, or in any printed forms prepared by the department or the director, unless otherwise expressly stated, or unless the context or subject matter otherwise requires:

(1) “Approved public treatment facility” means a treatment agency operating under the direction and control of the department or providing treatment under this chapter through a contract with the department.

(2) “Department” means the state department of mental health, retardation, and hospitals.

(3) “Director” means the director of the state department of mental health, retardation, and hospitals.

(4) “Drug intoxication” means an altered physiological substance or psychoactive substances, in which normal functioning is seriously impeded.

(5) “Likely to injure him or herself or others” means:

(i) A substantial risk of physical harm to himself or herself as manifested by behavior evidencing serious threats of, or attempts at, suicide or by behavior which will result in serious bodily harm;  or

(ii) A substantial risk of physical harm to other persons as manifested by behavior or threats evidencing homicidal or other violent behavior.

(6) “Physician” means a person duly licensed to practice medicine or osteopathy in this state.

(7) “Psychoactive substance” means a drug that affects the central nervous system and alters mood, perception, and/or consciousness.

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Cite this article: FindLaw.com - Rhode Island General Laws Title 23. Health and Safety § 23-10.1-2. Definitions - last updated January 01, 2026 | https://codes.findlaw.com/ri/title-23-health-and-safety/ri-gen-laws-sect-23-10-1-2/

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