R.I. Gen. Laws § 8-2-13.1: Retaining equity jurisdiction during arbitration.

Notwithstanding the existence of any agreement providing for the resolution of disputes, contract violations, or grievances by way of arbitration or other statutory means, the superior court shall have equity jurisdiction to issue temporary restraining orders and injunctions to maintain the status quo as it existed prior to the action which is the subject matter of the dispute pending resolution of the matter through arbitration and/or statutory means. The court’s decision to grant or not to grant a temporary restraining order and/or injunction shall not be considered by the arbitrator in resolving the dispute.