R.I. Gen. Laws § 28-5-16: Power to prevent unlawful practices — Preference for informal methods.

The commission is empowered and directed, as subsequently provided, to prevent any person from engaging in unlawful employment practices, provided that before instituting the formal hearing authorized by §§ 28-5-18 — 28-5-27, it shall attempt, by informal methods of conference, persuasion, and conciliation, to induce compliance with this chapter.