R.I. Gen. Laws § 42-139.1-2: Declaration of intent.

(a) The preservation of responsible government requires that the people of the state be afforded the fullest opportunity to petition their government officials and to express their opinions.

(b) Public confidence in the integrity of our government is strengthened by the identification of those who seek to influence governmental actions and by the disclosure of funds expended in that effort.

(c) The provisions of this chapter are intended to:

(1) Simplify and clarify the rules governing lobbying;

(2) Maximize transparency without imposing unnecessary burdens on the process;

(3) Promote a more user-friendly registration and reporting system; and

(4) Strengthen the investigation and enforcement scheme.