R.I. Gen. Laws § 8-18-1: Legislative findings.

It is hereby found and declared as follows:

(1) The general assembly has authorized the establishment of municipal courts, in order to promote the health and safety of the residents of each city or town and to insure compliance with any and all local ordinances.

(2) In furtherance of this finding there is hereby created a compact between the state courts and agencies and the local municipal courts to establish and define jurisdictional responsibility for law enforcement powers within the state.