R.I. Gen. Laws § 42-69-3: Terms of membership.

When first appointed, three (3) of the members shall serve for a term of three (3) years, three (3) for a term of two (2) years, three (3) for a term of one year, as shall be designated by the governor. The successor of each member shall be appointed for a term of three (3) years, except that any person appointed to fill a vacancy shall serve only for the unexpired term. They shall annually elect from among their members a chairperson and a vice-chairperson. The members of the commission shall serve without compensation but shall be reimbursed for expenses necessarily incurred in the performance of their duties.