R.I. Gen. Laws § 42-154-2
There is hereby transferred to the division of elderly affairs within the department of human services those powers and duties formerly administered by the department of elderly affairs as provided for in chapters 42-66 ("Elderly Affairs Department") through 42-66.10 ("Elder Health Insurance Consumer Assistance Program"), inclusive, and any other applicable provisions of the general laws; provided, however, in order that there is no interruption in the functions of elderly affairs and/or human services the transfer may be postponed until such time as determined by the secretary of the office of health and human services that the transfer may best be put into force and effect; provided, further, the governor shall submit to the 2012 Assembly any recommended statutory changes necessary to facilitate the merger.
R.I. Gen. Laws § 42-154-2