R.I. Gen. Laws § 42-7.2-3: Secretary of health and human services — Appointment.

The executive office of health and human services shall be administered by a secretary of health and human services, hereafter referred to as “secretary”. The position of secretary is hereby created in the unclassified service. The secretary shall be appointed by the governor, and shall be subject to the advice and consent of the senate. The secretary shall hold office at the pleasure of the governor and until a successor is appointed and qualified. Before entering upon the discharge of duties, the secretary shall take an oath to faithfully execute the duties of the office.