R.I. Gen. Laws § 36-4-50: Merit as basis — Discrimination prohibited.

Except as provided in § 36-4-50.1, the determinations of eligibility for appointments, promotions, and demotions in and dismissals from the classified service shall be based solely upon merit, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, age, disability, country of origin, or ancestral origin, consistent with collective bargaining agreements, and consistent with title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, 42 U.S.C. § 2000e et seq.