R.I. Gen. Laws § 22-6-12: Access to public records.

The committee on finance of the house of representatives shall have free access to all public records and documents in this state which may be of value to it in connection with the research and study of the committee and its staff. The committee or any member or any of its personnel may inspect the properties, equipment, facilities, and records of the various departments, commissions, boards, or agencies of the state.