R.I. Gen. Laws § 36-4-39: Retirement or transfer to light duty.

When an employee has become physically or mentally incapable of or unfit for the efficient performance of the duties of his or her position by reason of infirmities due to advanced age or other disability, it shall be the duty of the appointing authority to transfer the employee to less arduous duties or to order his or her retirement. The appeal procedure established for dismissals shall apply to retirements ordered under authority of this section.