R.I. Gen. Laws § 40.1-2-7: Application of funds deposited to care and treatment of residents.

The fiscal agent of the department of behavioral healthcare, developmental disabilities and hospitals shall apply any funds now or hereafter deposited in the name of any discharged or deceased patient or inmate in any institution under the control of the department of behavioral healthcare, developmental disabilities and hospitals as partial or full payment, as the case may be, for the care and treatment of the patient or inmate.