R.I. Gen. Laws § 42-12.3-11
The general assembly shall annually appropriate to the department of human services such sums as it may deem necessary to carry out the purposes of this chapter. Authorization to pay for health care services specified in this chapter shall be made by representatives of the department of human services, and the state controller is hereby authorized and directed to draw his or her orders upon the general treasurer for the payment of such sum or sums or so much thereof as may be required from time to time, upon the receipt by him or her of properly authenticated vouchers, provided, however, that the department of human services may enter into cooperative agreements for the transfer of funds to effectuate the purposes set forth in this chapter.
R.I. Gen. Laws § 42-12.3-11