R.I. Gen. Laws § 1-2-12: Appropriations — Disbursements.

The general assembly shall annually appropriate any sums that it may deem necessary for the purposes of this chapter, and the state controller is authorized and directed to draw his or her orders upon the general treasurer from time to time for the payment of those sums, or so much of those sums, as may be necessary, upon receipt by him or her of vouchers signed by the director of transportation.