R.I. Gen. Laws § 42-51-6.1: Hearing boards.

(a) The commission’s chairperson shall appoint five (5) commissioners as the hearing board for the purpose of conducting hearings and rendering decisions on matters relating to the provisions of chapter 87 of this title and §§ 37-8-15.1 and 42-46-13 within the jurisdiction of the commission.

(b) Three (3) commissioners shall constitute a quorum of a hearing board.

(c) The hearing board is empowered to:

(1) Receive, investigate, and act upon charges of unlawful practices within its jurisdiction; and

(2) In connection with any investigation or hearing held on any matter within its jurisdiction to hold hearings, administer oaths, take the testimony of any person under oath, and to require the production for examination of any books and papers relating to any matter under investigation or in question before the hearing board.