R.I. Gen. Laws § 35-5-6: Payment of salaries and wages from funds — Reimbursement from treasury.

When authorized by any state department or agency approved by the director of administration, any disbursing officer shall also have charge of the payment of salaries and wages of officers and employees of the department or agency, and the state controller is authorized and directed to draw his or her orders upon the general treasurer for the payment of such sums as may from time to time be required, within the amounts appropriated therefor, upon receipt by him or her of payrolls properly attested, accompanied by orders approved in a manner satisfactory to the controller.