R.I. Gen. Laws § 42-12.5-1: Statement of purpose.

(a) The director of the department of human services shall establish within the department a unit to license and monitor child daycare service providers to protect the health, safety, and well-being of children while being cared for as a commercial service and are away from their homes.

(b) Services for children requiring licensure under this chapter shall include all child daycare providers that offer services within the state, except as defined in § 42-12.5-5.