R.I. Gen. Laws § 42-8-19
The secretary of state, having charge of the archives of the state, may employ a suitable person to restore, preserve, classify, and assemble the state archives under his or her direction. The person shall be trained in the care and preservation of archives and the general assembly shall annually appropriate such sum as it may deem necessary for the annual salary of the employee; and the state controller is hereby authorized and directed to draw his or her orders upon the general treasurer for the payment of the sum as may be appropriated, or so much thereof as may be from time to time required, upon receipt by him or her of properly authenticated vouchers. There shall also be appropriated for the repair and restoration of the archives and for the necessary supplies therefor, such sums of money as the general assembly shall deem necessary.
R.I. Gen. Laws § 42-8-19