R.I. Gen. Laws § 46-12.5.1-4: Ballast water discharge.

(a) Except as provided in subsection (b) of this section, no person shall cause or permit the discharge of contaminated ballast water from a vessel into the water of the state.

(b) The master of a vessel may discharge contaminated ballast water from a vessel only if it is necessary for the safety of the vessel and no alternative action is feasible to ensure the safety of the vessel.