R.I. Gen. Laws § 36-10-7
The general assembly of the state of Rhode Island hereby declares that it is the intention of the state to make payment of the annuities, benefits, and retirement allowances provided for under the provisions of this chapter and to that end that it is the intention of the state to make the appropriations required by the state to meet its obligations to the extent provided in this chapter. The general assembly shall make annual appropriations which shall be sufficient to provide for the payment of the annuities, benefits, and retirement allowances required of the state under this chapter. The amounts to be appropriated shall be included in the annual appropriation bill and shall be paid by the general treasurer into the retirement system.
R.I. Gen. Laws § 36-10-7