R.I. Gen. Laws § 28-14.1-1: Definitions.

Whenever used in this chapter:

(1) “Employer” means any individual, firm, partnership, association, joint stock company, trust, corporation, receiver, or other like officer appointed by a court of this state, and any agent or officer of any of the previously mentioned classes, employing any person in this state.

(2) “Service charge” means a compulsory fee charged by an employer to a patron.

(3) “Tip” means voluntary monetary compensation received directly or indirectly by the employee for services rendered.

(4) “Tipped employee” means any employee engaged in an occupation in which the employee customarily and regularly receives more than thirty dollars ($30.00) a month in tips.