R.I. Gen. Laws § 35-1.1-8: Appropriations and disbursements.

The general assembly shall annually appropriate such sums as it may deem necessary for the purpose of carrying out the provisions of this chapter. The state controller is hereby authorized and directed to draw his or her orders upon the general treasurer for the payment of such sum or sums, or so much thereof as may from time to time be required, upon receipt by him or her of proper vouchers approved by the director of the office of management and budget, or his or her designee.