R.I. Gen. Laws § 21-2-52: Appropriations and disbursements.

The general assembly shall annually appropriate any sums that it may deem necessary for the purpose of carrying out the provisions of this chapter; and the state controller is authorized and directed to draw his or her orders upon the general treasurer for the payment of any sum appropriated, or so much of it as may be required, upon receipt by him or her of properly authenticated vouchers.