R.I. Gen. Laws § 31-38-20: Appropriations and disbursements.

The general assembly shall annually appropriate, out of any money not otherwise appropriated, any sums that it may deem necessary for the purpose of this chapter. The state controller is authorized and directed to draw his or her orders upon the general treasurer for the payment of the sum, or so much of it that may be required from time to time, upon receipt by him or her of properly authenticated vouchers approved by the director of the department of revenue.