R.I. Gen. Laws § 21-31.1-1: Legislative findings — Intent.

(a) The general assembly finds and declares it is in the interest of public health, safety, and welfare that a uniform state code is needed to regulate distributors of veterinary drugs conducting business within the state of Rhode Island; to provide for registration of distributors of veterinary drugs by a system of permits; to provide for the inspection of the establishments of distributors of veterinary drugs; and to require records on prescription veterinary drug distribution.

(b) The intent of this chapter is to assure proper distribution of veterinary drugs to prevent adulteration of the food supply with illegal drug residues through misuse of drugs on food producing animals, and to promote the health of treated animals.