R.I. Gen. Laws § 28-49-2: Definitions.

As used in this chapter, the following words and terms have the following meanings:

(1) “Disaster” means a fire, flood, hurricane, blizzard, tornado, or other such occurrence where the victims cannot recover without assistance. Applicable disasters would be those designated at level II and above in the American National Red Cross regulations and procedures.

(2) “State agency” means any state office, or officer, department, board, commission, institution, bureau, or any agency, division, or unit within any office, department, board, or commission or other state authority.