A small employer in RI is defined as an employer composed of how many employees?

In Rhode Island, a small employer is defined as one that has 50 or fewer employees. This classification is significant as it determines eligibility for certain insurance programs and benefits tailored specifically for small businesses. Understanding the threshold of 50 employees helps in recognizing the specific regulatory frameworks applicable to these businesses, especially when it comes to health insurance mandates and options available under state law. This definition aligns with the Affordable Care Act (ACA), which also considers employers with 50 or fewer full-time employees as small employers when addressing certain requirements and provisions. Recognizing this classification ensures that small employers can access relevant resources and comply with the necessary regulations designed to support their operations and employee welfare.