R.I. Gen. Laws § 40-6.4-3
The director, in consultation with the director of the division of vocational rehabilitation, shall establish a three-year (3) demonstration work-preparation and supportive work-employment program to place AFDC recipients and people with disabilities in private-sector employment. At least one-third (1/3) of the supportive work-employment program costs shall be covered by payment for services by the participating private employers. The program shall include the use of grant diversion to enable the director to provide all or part of the AFDC or other federal grant to an employer to cover part of the cost of wages paid to the recipient. The program shall also seek all available federal and private funds. The director shall seek federal approval, including waivers of applicable federal regulations as are necessary, to conduct the demonstration program for AFDC recipients and people with disabilities, using grant diversion. The demonstration program shall test the effectiveness of a supported work grant-diversion program in placing AFDC recipients and handicapped persons in long-term employment at wage levels and with advancement potential sufficient to permit economic self-sufficiency and permanent removal from AFDC or other government aid.
R.I. Gen. Laws § 40-6.4-3