R.I. Gen. Laws § 42-72-36.2: Recommendations as to allocation of resources.

On or before October 1, 2016, the department of children, youth and families shall recommend the allocation of existing resources as needed to ensure that those children in need of residential care, including foster homes and support services, receive them in the least-restrictive setting appropriate to their needs. The department is hereby authorized to utilize screening criteria to avoid unnecessary, congregate-care placements of children.