R.I. Gen. Laws § 36-7-31: Appropriations.

The general assembly shall annually appropriate such sums as may be necessary for the purpose of carrying out the provisions of §§ 36-7-27 — 36-7-30 and § 36-7-35 and the state controller is hereby authorized and directed to draw his or her orders upon the general treasurer for the payment of such sums, or so much of the sums, as may be required from time to time, upon the receipt by him or her of properly authenticated vouchers.