R.I. Gen. Laws § 15-24-1: Purpose.

The purpose of this chapter is to enhance the enforcement of support obligations by requiring employers to report all new hires or rehires effective October 1, 1997, by establishing a state directory of new hires to be reported to a national directory of new hires, to establish procedures for reporting and penalties for failure to report, in accordance with title IV, part D, § 454 of the Federal Social Security Act, 42 USC § 654, and as defined in § 15-24-2 of this chapter. This chapter shall be construed liberally to effect this purpose.