R.I. Gen. Laws § 30-2-8: Appointment of temporary officers.

Whenever the exigencies of the service require, the governor may appoint such additional officers, with rank not exceeding that of colonel, as may be actually necessary to perform the duties required, and these officers shall receive the same pay and allowances as are allowed officers of similar rank in the national guard; provided, however, that whenever the exigency ceases to exist, the officers appointed under this chapter shall be mustered out of service.