R.I. Gen. Laws § 35-11-1: Definitions.

As used in this chapter:

(1) “Authorized officer” means any official of this state or any of its departments, agencies, or other instrumentalities or any of its political subdivisions whose signature on a public security or instrument of payment is required or permitted.

(2) “Facsimile signature” means a reproduction, by engraving, imprinting, stamping, or other means, of the manual signature of the authorized officer.

(3) “Instrument of payment” means a check, draft, warrant, or order for the payment, delivery, or transfer of funds.

(4) “Public security” means a bond, note, certificate of indebtedness, or other obligation for the payment of money, issued by this state or by any of its departments, agencies, or other instrumentalities or by any of its political subdivisions.