R.I. Gen. Laws § 30-15-3: Definitions.

As used in this chapter:

(1) “Bioterrorism” means the intentional use of any microorganism, virus, infectious substance or biological product that may be engineered as a result of biotechnology or any naturally occurring or bioengineered component of any such microorganism, virus, infectious substance, or biological product, to cause death, disease, or other biological malfunction in a human, an animal, a plant or other living organism;

(2) “Disaster” means occurrence or imminent threat of widespread or severe damage, injury, or loss of life or property resulting from any natural or man-made cause, including, but not limited to:

(i) Fire;

(ii) Flood;

(iii) Earthquake;

(iv) Wind, storm, wave action, oil spill, or other water contamination requiring emergency action to avert danger or damage;

(v) Volcanic activity;

(vi) Epidemic;

(vii) Air contamination;

(viii) Blight;

(ix) Drought;

(x) Infestation;

(xi) Explosion;

(xii) Riots;

(xiii) Hostile military or paramilitary action;

(xiv) Endangerment of the health, safety, or resources of the people of the state;

(xv) Acts of bioterrorism;

(3) “Political subdivision” means any city or town in Rhode Island; and

(4) “Unorganized militia” means all able-bodied persons between the ages of sixteen (16) and fifty (50) years.