Rhode Island General Laws Title 30. Military Affairs and Defense § 30-13-31. Absent and additional court-martial members

(a) No member of a general or special court-martial may be absent or excused after the accused has been arraigned except for physical disability or as the result of a challenge or by order of the convening authority for good cause.

(b) Whenever a general court-martial is reduced below five (5) members, the trial may not proceed unless the convening authority details new members sufficient in number to provide not less than five (5) members.  When the new members have been sworn, the trial may proceed as if no evidence had previously been introduced.

(c) Whenever a special court-martial is reduced below three (3) members, the trial may not proceed unless the convening authority details new members sufficient in number to provide not less than three (3) members.  When the new members have been sworn, the trial shall proceed as if no evidence had previously been introduced.