Rhode Island General Laws Title 40.1. Behavioral Healthcare, Developmental Disabilities and Hospitals § 40.1-22-7. Voluntary admissions and discharges

(a) Any individual of lawful age, either personally, or on the application of any relative, friend, or attorney with the individual's consent, must apply, orally or in writing, for voluntary admission to any facility provided for by this chapter seeking care and residence for alleged developmental disability.

(b) In the discretion of the superintendent or other official in charge of the facility, the individual may be retained for a period not exceeding three (3) days after receipt of written notice from the individual of his or her intention or desire to leave the facility.  Notwithstanding any other provisions of law to the contrary, no person admitted to any facility as a voluntary client shall be deprived of any civil right solely by reason of admission nor shall admission modify or vary any civil right of the person, including, but not limited to, civil service or merit rating, ranking, and appointment, or rights relating to the granting, forfeiture, or denial of a license, permit, privilege, or benefit pursuant to any law.