R.I. Gen. Laws § 12-1.1-2: Legislative findings and purpose.

The general assembly recognizes and declares that:

(1) Examining crime scenes for evidence is essentially a state and local problem;

(2) The establishment of appropriate goals, objectives, and standards for the examination of crime scenes and the training of appropriate personnel in such techniques must be a priority concern;

(3) The functions of a state crime lab must be coordinated in an efficient and effective manner;

(4) The full and effective use of resources affecting state and local crime scene investigations requires the complete cooperation of state and local law enforcement agencies; and

(5) Training, research, evaluation, and technical assistance activities must be encouraged and focused on the improvement of scientific criminal investigation in Rhode Island.