R.I. Gen. Laws § 5-56.1-3: Licensing authority.

The department of environmental management, acting through its director and referred to as “the licensing authority,” shall carry out the functions and duties conferred upon it by this chapter. The licensing authority shall adopt standards, rules, and regulations, pursuant to the administrative procedures act, chapter 35 of title 42, for the administration of the licensing program established under this chapter and related activities.