R.I. Gen. Laws § 40.1-5.4-9: Authority to lease.

Notwithstanding the provisions of § 42-11-2, the department of behavioral healthcare, developmental disabilities and hospitals may make available, on terms and conditions and for the period it deems proper, facilities under its jurisdiction, or space therein, to affiliating nonprofit agencies, provided that the premises are utilized for direct or supportive services to persons who are mentally ill and their families, and/or for education and training of any discipline concerned with the problems of serious mental illness and/or research directed to the problems of serious mental illness.