R.I. Gen. Laws § 28-41-17: Appeal tribunals.

To hear and decide disputed claims, the board of review may appoint one or more impartial referees, each of whom shall constitute an appeal tribunal to hear and decide appeals from determinations and re-determinations. The board may make appointments to this tribunal and fix its salaries in accordance with the state civil service law, rules, and regulations. No person shall participate on behalf of the board in any case in which he or she is an interested party.