R.I. Gen. Laws § 23-11-13: Appropriations and disbursements.

The general assembly shall annually appropriate that sum that it may deem necessary for carrying out the provisions and purposes of this chapter, and the state controller shall draw his or her orders upon the general treasurer for the payment of the sum appropriated, or so much of it as may be from time to time required, upon receipt by him or her of proper vouchers authenticated by the director of health.