R.I. Gen. Laws § 46-19-8: Appropriations and disbursements.

The general assembly shall annually appropriate such sum as it may deem necessary, to pay all necessary expenses incurred by the director of the department of environmental management in the discharge of the director’s duties; and the state controller is hereby authorized and directed to draw his or her orders on the general treasurer from time to time for such sums as may be necessary, upon the presentation of properly authenticated vouchers.