Rhode Island General Laws Title 23. Health and Safety § 23-23-7. Subpoena of witnesses--Enforcement

All subpoenas shall be served as subpoenas in civil cases in the superior court, and witnesses subpoenaed shall be entitled to the same fees for attendance and travel as are provided witnesses in civil cases in the superior court. In cases of contumacy or refusal to obey the command of the subpoena issued, the superior court shall have jurisdiction upon application of the director, with proof by affidavit of the fact, to issue a rule or order returnable in not less than two (2) nor more than five (5) days, directing this person to show cause why he or she should not be adjudged in contempt. Upon return of the order, the justice, before whom the matter is brought for hearing, shall examine under oath that person and that person shall be given an opportunity to be heard, and if the justice shall determine that the person has refused without reasonable cause or legal excuse, to be examined or to answer a legal or pertinent question, the justice may impose a fine upon the offender or immediately commit the offender to the adult correctional institutions to remain there until he or she submits to do the act which he or she was required to do, or is discharged according to law.