R.I. Gen. Laws § 5-37.6-2: Findings.

The general assembly finds and declares that:

(1) Pain affects quality of life, job performance, and security;

(2) Nearly thirty percent (30%) of nursing home residents with daily pain were receiving no pain medication of any form;

(3) Pain untreated or under-treated adversely impacts the quality of life for patients;

(4) Up to ninety-five percent (95%) of terminally ill patients’ pain can be relieved with adequate pain management; and

(5) Too many Rhode Islanders are suffering and dying in needless pain.