R.I. Gen. Laws § 40.1-1-15: Continuity of administrative function.

In order to ensure continuity of the administrative business of the state, the actual transfer of functions or any part thereof to the department of behavioral healthcare, developmental disabilities and hospitals from the department of health may be postponed after July 1, 1998, until such time as, by executive order of the governor, the transfer herein provided can be put into force and effect.