R.I. Gen. Laws § 21-28-5.12: Appropriations and disbursements.

The general assembly shall annually appropriate any sums that it may deem necessary for the payment of the necessary expenses incurred by the department in the performance of its duties; and the state controller is authorized and directed to draw his or her orders upon the general treasurer for the payment of the sums or so much of them as is required, upon receipt by him or her of proper vouchers approved by the director of health.