R.I. Gen. Laws § 28-39-3.2
The election shall be made by submitting to the director a duly certified copy of a resolution or act of the legislative body of the political subdivision or subdivisions passed in accordance with their ordinances. Upon receipt of the certified copy of the resolution or act, the director shall specify the date as of which the governmental entity shall become subject to these provisions. Notwithstanding any provisions of chapters 39 - 41 of this title to the contrary, any political subdivision or subdivisions in this state may elect in accordance with these provisions that services performed by individuals for its highway department or department of public works, including full-time highway surveyors, whether or not those surveyors are elected, shall be deemed to be in employment.
R.I. Gen. Laws § 28-39-3.2