R.I. Gen. Laws § 23-17.11-10: Lien.

The state shall have a lien for reasonable costs incurred pursuant to this chapter on the following property: the building in which the facility is located if owned by a controlling person; the land on which the facility is located if owned by a controlling person; and any fixtures, equipment or goods used in the operation of the facility if owned by a controlling person. Such lien shall be prior to any mortgage or lien which the court finds has been executed or obtained for a fraudulent purpose or to hinder or delay creditors. Such lien shall also be prior to a mortgage or lien held by any person with an ownership interest in the nursing facility; or held by any controlling person.