R.I. Gen. Laws § 42-12-10: Rehabilitation of disadvantaged persons.

The state department of human services is hereby authorized to provide vocational evaluation and work adjustment services to disadvantaged persons who are disabled and other individuals disadvantaged by reason of their youth or advanced age, low educational attainment, ethnic or cultural factors, prison or delinquency records, or other conditions that constitute a barrier to employment. Services may also be provided to family members when necessary to the rehabilitation of the disadvantaged.