R.I. Gen. Laws § 42-17.1-9: Assumption of duties.

Except as otherwise provided in this chapter, the director of the department of environmental management assuming any duties formerly imposed upon any other department, division, board, commission, or other agency shall perform those duties, notwithstanding that those duties were formerly performed by a board, commission, or single officer. Any ruling, decision, or order made by such head with regard to matters within his or her jurisdiction shall be subject to any existing right of appeal to a court of competent jurisdiction.