Rhode Island General Laws Title 35. Public Finance § 35-20-10. Personal use of public corporation credit cards prohibited

(a) It is unlawful for any employee of a public corporation, as defined in § 35-20-5(4), or his or her designee, to use or permit others to use corporation issued credit cards for personal use.

(b) For purposes of this section, “ Personal use” means any use the purpose of which is for personal enjoyment, private gain or advantage, or an outside endeavor not related to the business of the public corporation.

(c) Any person who violates this section is liable for a civil penalty equal to three times the value of the unlawful use plus an amount not to exceed ten thousand dollars ($10,000). The penalty shall be assessed and recovered in a civil action brought in the name of the people of the state of Rhode Island by the attorney general. If two (2) or more persons are responsible for any violation, they are jointly and severally liable for the penalty. If the action is brought by the attorney general, the moneys recovered shall be paid into the general fund. Nothing in this section prevents the attorney general from pursuing criminal charges against any person who violates this section.