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Overview
The state of Rhode Island boasts so much history that it is practically a living museum. This tiny coastal state has one of the country's highest concentrations of historic landmarks. While the Gilded Age mansions of Newport are probably Rhode Island's most famous historic attraction, remnants of the state's colorful past can be found in every corner of its 1200-square-mile expanse.
Rhode Island was founded by Roger Williams in 1636, who established the first permanent white settlement on land he had purchased from the local Narragansett Indians. Forced to flee Massachusetts due to persecution, Williams founded the colony as a haven for religious and political freedom, attracting settlers who would not be welcome amidst the strict religious climate of the Puritans at Plymouth and Massachusetts Bay. Several individuals sharing Williams' philosophy of religious freedom followed his example in establishing new settlements on both sides of Narragansett Bay. The communities united in 1663 and were granted royal charter by King Charles II, allowing for a larger degree of self-government than any other settlement in the New World. Early staples of the Rhode Island economy included agriculture and sea trade, with Providence and Newport soon emerging as two of the busiest ports in North America.
On May 4, 1776, Rhode Island renounced its allegiance to Great Britain and declared independence; it was the first of the thirteen colonies to do so. Rhode Islanders played a crucial role in every stage of the Revolutionary War, boasting military heroes such as Nathaniel Greene, second-in-command to General George Washington, and Commodore Esek Hopkins, Commander-In-Chief of the Continental Navy. At the close of the war, independent-minded Rhode Islanders demanded the addition of the Bill of Rights, which protects individual liberties, before the state would ratify the U.S. Constitution.
The Revolutionary War era was followed by a period of industrial expansion. Samuel Slater established the nation's first water-powered cotton mill at Pawtucket in 1793; it was this development that signaled the beginning of America's Industrial Revolution. Nehemiah and Seril Dodge established the American jewel industry in Providence in the early 1800's, placing the city at the forefront of the industrial age. The boom in manufacture precipitated an influx of new residents, with immigrants from Great Britain, Ireland, Italy and French Canada streaming into Rhode Island's cities, eager to find work at the state's man factories. In time, the working families assimilated, establishing a tradition of skilled manufacture and industry which remains a crucial asset to the state's economy.
Today, Rhode Island remains a leader in American industry; Providence, the state's capital city, has emerged as a retail center and hotbed of international commerce. At the same time, the countryside offers escape for residents and seasonal visitors alike, with classic New England town squares and restored colonial-era villages. The state's 400-mile shoreline offers bountiful opportunities for sailing and fishing, while over 100 beaches feature clambakes, music festivals, picnic areas and much more. The historic city of Newport boasts a colorful history of nearly 400 years; one of America's oldest commercial seaports, Newport has become a major tourist attraction with numerous colonial landmarks, historic boatyards, village shops and the famed "summer cottages" of the early 20th century, which served as getaways for the country's most powerful families in the late Victorian era. A living shrine to America's fabled past, Newport embodies Rhode Island's historic pride, while bustling Providence and its surrounding communities supply a crucial progressive edge for the future.
Facts
One of the original 13 colonies, Rhode Island was first settled by Roger Williams in 1636. A formal government was established at Newport in 1643 and a Royal Charter was granted in 1663. Rhode Island ratified the US Constitution and thereby achieved statehood in 1790.
1,214 square miles
39 towns and cities
Population: 1,067,610 (2006)
Largest cities (2005): Providence, 176,862; Warwick, 87,233; Cranston, 81,614; Pawtucket, 73,742; East Providence, 49,515
Nicknamed "The Ocean State"
400 miles of Atlantic Ocean coastline
1500 miles of streams
250 lakes and ponds
29 State Parks and Beaches
Per capita income: $27,217 (2005)
Highest point: Jerimoth Hill (812 ft)
Climate
New England is famous for its four distinct seasons, with brisk, snowy winters giving way to colorful springs and hot, humid summers. Rhode Island's coastal location makes its climate more moderate than that of most New England states. Don't be too surprised at the occasional 60–degree day in January…or the odd snowflake in May!
Winter
Winters in Rhode Island are generally cold, with average January temperatures of 29°F in Providence. Snow is common, with an average yearly snowfall of 35 inches in the state's capital (the southern coast and northwest generally see the lowest and highest total snowfall, respectively). Residents and visitors alike should prepare for temperatures below freezing, though temperatures can reach the high 50s or plummet to single digits during the winter months. Skiing is a popular activity in the Berkshires of Western Massachusetts and the White Mountains of New Hampshire and Maine, both relatively accessible via major New England highways.
Spring
Spring temperatures in Rhode Island are variable, with frequent rainfall throughout the season. Temperatures begin to warm significantly in late March, although snowfall can occur into early April. By May, daily highs approach 70°F across the state. Biking, hiking and day trips to some of Rhode Island's historic villages are among the many recreational opportunities available to residents in the spring and fall. Light jackets, sweaters and long pants are generally sufficient after the snow subsides, although on warmer days shorts and T-Shirts may also be appropriate.
Summer
Rhode Island summers are hot and humid, though the moderating influence of the ocean keeps temperatures slightly cooler than interior regions. Daily averages approach 75°F in July, though temperatures often reach into the upper 80s and 90-degree weather is not uncommon. With more than 400 miles of beautiful beaches, Rhode Island's Atlantic Ocean coast is the perfect weekend destination for families and professionals looking to escape the daily grind. Shorts, T-Shirts, and swimwear are appropriate throughout the summer months.
Fall
Temperatures in Rhode Island remain quite warm into late September, with averages for the month in the mid-60s. Though mornings and evenings are much cooler than during the summer, fall temperatures in Rhode Island are significantly milder than in most parts of New England. By late October, the trees alight in brilliant colors, from bright red to yellow and orange. This eruption of color is the region's world famous fall foliage, the extraordinary last gasp before the leaves fall from the trees and the cycle begins over again. As the trees turn color and shed their leaves, temperatures begin to drop significantly, with the first frosts occurring in October. Residents can enjoy cycling and hiking in Rhode Island's many State Parks and recreational areas along with tours of historical sites, from the Breakers mansion in Newport to the Museum of Natural History at Roger Williams Park in Providence. Long sleeves and jackets are recommended, though you may want to bring layers for day trips in late October and November.
"On May 4, 1776, Rhode Island was the first colony to renounce allegiance to Great Britain and declare independence…Rhode Island's independent spirit was still in evidence at the close of the Revolutionary War. It was the last of the 13 original colonies to ratify the U.S. Constitution, demanding that the Bill of Rights, which guarantees individual liberties, be added." Visit RhodeIsland.com. The capital of Rhode Island is Providence, located at the head of Narragansett Bay in the north–central region of the state.
The RI state government has three branches:
Executive
The Rhode Island Executive branch is headed by the Governor. Serving under the governor are the following elected officials:
The Lieutenant Governor
The Secretary of State
The Attorney General
The General Treasurer
The following departments are also contained within the executive branch:
Department of Administration
Department of Business Regulation
Department of Children, Youth and Families
Department of Corrections
Department of Elderly Affairs
Department of Elementary and Secondary Education
Department of Environmental Management
Department of Health
Department of Human Services
Department of Labor and Training
Department of Mental Health, Retardation and Hospitals
The Rhode Island General Assembly consists of the following two houses:
The House of Representatives, with 75 members headed by the Speaker of the House, the House Majority Leader and the House Minority Leader
The Senate, with 38 members headed by the President of the Senate, the Senate Majority Leader and the Senate Minority Leader
Judicial
The Supreme Court consists of a Chief Justice and four justices.
In selecting justices of the Supreme Court, the Judicial Nominating Commission publicly submits three to five names to the Governor. The Governor appoints the justice from the names received, and the appointee must receive the advice and consent of both the Senate and the House of Representatives.
As the court of last resort, the Supreme Court is the final interpreter of state law. The Supreme Court has final appellate jurisdiction over questions of law and equity, supervisory powers over other state courts, and general advisory responsibility to the legislative and the executive branches of state government concerning the constitutionality of legislation. Regulating admission to the Rhode Island Bar and disciplining its members are also responsibilities of this court.
The Superior Court consists of one Presiding Justice, 21 Justices and 4 magistrates.
As the highest court of general jurisdiction, the Superior Court presides over all felony cases and civil suits of over $5,000.
The following lower courts are also part of the Judiciary Branch:
Income from sole proprietorships, partnerships, and other unincorporated businesses are subject to the state personal income tax, which is 26% of the federal income tax liability. This tax is levied on the Rhode Island income of both residents and non-residents.
Certain types of income may be subject to Rhode Island taxation but exempt for Federal purposes or taxable for Federal purposes and exempt from state taxation. Examples include:
interest from municipal bonds from states other than Rhode Island is subject to Rhode Island taxation but exempt for Federal purposes
interest from U.S. Government obligations is subject to federal taxation but is exempt from state taxation.
Sales and Use Tax
A 7% sales tax applies to the following retail sales:
Sales of goods, wares and merchandise including meals, alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages, motor vehicles not requiring registration, automobile lubricants and accessories (but not gasoline), building materials and fixtures and most other types of tangible personalty.
Sales of food or drinks served at restaurants, soda fountains, hotels, bars, clubs and similar places.
The fabrication or production of any item of personal property to the special order of a customer, such as printing or photography.
The furnishing of certain public utility services. Telephone and telegraph services are taxable whether furnished by a private corporation or by a city or town. Except for home consumption, the furnishing of electric, water or gas is also taxable. The furnishing of community antennae television and cable television services is also taxable.
The leasing or renting of tangible personal property such as bicycles, typewriters, and other business machines, trucks, automobiles and other personalty.
Rental charges for transient accommodations for the first 30 days of each rental period.
A 7% use tax is imposed on the following:
the storage, use or consumption in this state of tangible personalty, including a motor vehicle, airplane or trailer purchased from any retailer.
casual sale of a motor vehicle, airplane or trailer. A casual sale is a sale made by a person other than a licensed motor vehicle dealer (including an auctioneer selling a motor vehicle at an auction), or other than a retailer of airplanes or trailers.
Motor Fuel Tax
A tax of thirty cents per gallon is imposed on retail motor fuels including gasoline, diesel and liquid propane.
Hotel Tax
A 5% hotel tax applies to transient lodging accommodations (rentals) at all hotels, motels, tourist homes, tourist camps, lodging houses and inns offering a minimum of 3 rooms for public lodging.
Employment Taxes
Employers of one or more workers in Rhode Island are subject to Employment Security, Temporary Disability and Job Development taxes.
Employers must pay the Employment Security tax quarterly. The tax is based on each employees wages up to the annually computed taxable wage base. The amount is determined by multiplying the individual employers tax rate by the total amount of taxable wages paid by the employer.
The Temporary Disability Insurance Tax is paid by employees through payroll deduction. Employers are responsible for making the required deductions (1.5% of each employees first $46,800 in wages) and forwarding all employees TDI withholdings on a quarterly basis.
The Job Development Assessment is a 0.21% tax used to support the Rhode Island Human Resource Investment Council. These monies assist RI employers by funding a variety of projects designed to improve and upgrade the skills of the existing workforce.
Corporation Franchise Tax
Every corporation chartered in Rhode Island or qualified to do business here must pay a tax of $2.50 for each $10,000 of authorized capital stock.
Tax on Gross Earnings of Public Utilities
The law imposes an annual excise tax payable March 1 on public service corporations and public service companies engaging in the same business as public service corporations. The tax is measured by gross earnings for the preceding calendar year and is computed as follows:
Cable Corporations – 8%
Electric Companies, telegraph companies, and express companies doing business on steamboats – 4%
Gas companies – 3%
Common carrier steamboat, ferryboat, street railway, dining car, sleeping car, chair car or parlor car corporations and water and toll bridge companies – 1.25%
Telecommunications corporations – 5%
Excise Tax on Banking Institutions
Each state bank, trust company, or loan and investment company in the state must annually pay an excise tax to the Tax Administrator measured by:
9% of its net income for the preceding year, or
$2.50 per $10,000 of its authorized capital stock as of the last day of the preceding calendar year.
The tax payable is the higher of the two.
Cigarette Tax
A tax of 8.5 cents is imposed on each cigarette and on each sheet of cigarette rolling paper sold or held for sale within Rhode Island ($1.71 per package of twenty).
Estate Tax
The tax is imposed upon the transfer of the net value of the assets of every resident decedent and the value of real and personal property of nonresident decedents located within this state.
Alcoholic Beverages Tax
A tax of $0.08 per gal of ethyl alcohol is imposed on all alcoholic beverages manufactured, rectified, blended or sold in this state.
Local Property Tax
Source: "Synopsis of Rhode Island Tax System," Rhode Island Department of Administration, Division of Taxation, January 1, 2004
If you have recently moved to Rhode Island, you need to obtain a valid Rhode Island license upon becoming a resident.
You need your current out-of-state license. This license cannot be expired for more than one (1) year. The DMV will require you to turn this license in.
You need to bring proof of your current address.
You need to bring a valid Social Security card.
There is a $30.00 fee for your first license. Your initial Rhode Island license will be valid for up to two years, expiring on your birthday. At that time you may renew for five (5) years.
If you are returning to Rhode Island from another state, you may be able to simply have your previous Rhode Island license reissued for a $30.00 fee. In order to do this, you need to meet the above requirements and pay the applicable fee. In addition, your Rhode Island license must not have been expired for more than 3 years.
If your Rhode Island license has been expired for more than three years, you will be issued a new license and new number.
License information for new drivers:
If you are between the ages of 16 - 18, you need to have completed a 33 -hour driver education course certified by the Community College of Rhode Island.
If you have completed an out-of-state driver education course it must be approved by the Community College of Rhode Island (www.ccri.edu). Once you have completed the course and passed the written exam you will be given a certificate. You need to submit that certificate along with a completed permit application to the DMV.
Applicants for permits must show:
A certified birth certificate (not a copy)
Driver Education certificate
A Social Security card
Your parent, legal guardian, licensed foster parent or adult spouse must sign the permit application and have their signature notarized. If your parent, guardian or foster parent accompanies you to the DMV, they must show ID in order to have their signature notarized on the permit application. If you have a legal guardian or licensed foster parent, they must have documentation to verify this.
This permit is valid for one year.
The fee for an instruction permit is $10.00.
If you are 18 or older, and have never held a driver's license in Rhode Island, or if your license has expired over three (3) years, you must apply for an Instruction Permit.
You are not required to take any driver education course
You ARE required to take and pass the written exam given by the DMV
You ARE required to show a Social Security card
Applicants for permits for a new driver's license must show:
After verifying all information, sign the TR-1 application. You may have the form notarized yourself, or with proper identification such as your RI license, the DMV clerks can notarize for you.
Along with the completed TR-1 application, you must submit the following documents:
A Manufacturer's Statement of Origin (new vehicles only), or The previous owner's title, if a titled vehicle (ten years and newer) and a bill of sale
The bill of sale, if a non-titled vehicle and proof of ownership (such as old title, copy or photocopy of the previous registration or copy of tax bill) from the person who sold you the vehicle.
If your vehicle has an out-of-state title, you are required to have a VIN check completed by your local police department.
If you do not have proof of ownership from the previous owner, you can obtain the registration record from the DMV's Pawtucket branch for a fee of $10.00.
If presenting the Certificate of Origin or the previous owner's title, be sure the date sold, the odometer reading and the purchase price have been completed on the back. the dealer or the previous owner(s) and you must sign the back of either of these forms.
A 7% sales tax will be collected at this time based on the purchase price of the dealer sale.
After completing the transaction, you will receive a registration certificate, new plates and expiration stickers. The title will be processed and mailed in approximately 30 days. If you have a loan on the vehicle, the title will be mailed directly to your lien holder.
If you are new to Rhode Island, you must register your vehicle within 30 days of becoming a resident. The DMV suggests you begin this process by applying for your Rhode Island driver's license.
You will be charged a registration fee and title fee. Once the fee is paid you will be given a registration certificate, registration stickers and new plates. Rhode Island requires two (2) plates on a vehicle, displayed front and rear. The registration stickers belong in the bottom right-hand corner.
The minimum age to marry in Rhode Island is 18 for males and 16 for females. If under 18 or under the control of a legal guardian, parent or legal guardian must complete a Minor's Permit to Marry. Grooms under age 18 and brides under 16 will need court permission to marry.
Apply for the marriage license in person and personally sign the license in the presence of the city or town clerk or his/her assistant, attesting to the truth of the information listed thereon.
Present proof of birth facts and identification.
If previously married, present a certified copy of the FINAL decree of divorce (with the raised or original, stamped court seal) or a certified copy of the death certificate of the previous spouse.
Fishing/Hunting
Rhode Island fishing license terms run from March 1 through the last day of February in the current licensing year. Residents are required to select a start date for any short-term licenses. A Resident Freshwater Fishing license is available for $18.00, while a non-resident license is $35.00. To purchase a fishing license online, follow this link.
Applications for hunting licenses may also be downloaded at this link. A resident hunting license is $18.00, while a combination fishing/hunting license is $33.00. Non-resident hunting license is $45.00.
Boating
Rhode Island registers boats on a biennial (2-year) basis with an option to register boats greater than thirty feet on an annual basis for one half the biennial fee.
A registration year is March 1st through the last day of February of the following year. Registration fees are not pro-rated and are non-refundable. Annual fees range from $15.00 for boats of 15 ft. in length or less to $300.00 for boats of over 50 ft. in length. Follow this link for online boat registration and additional information.
Gun Permits
State law requires handgun buyers to obtain a license from law enforcement prior to purchasing a handgun. The handgun buyer must either take a safety course or pass a written safety test.
The fee charged for each license or permit is $40.00, and each license is valid for 4 years from the date of issue.
There is a 7-day state waiting period for handguns.
For applications and more information, see this link.
