R.I. Gen. Laws § 42-83-3
In addition to any of its other powers and responsibilities, the commission is authorized and empowered to accept any grants made available by the United States government or any agency of the United States government, and the commission, with the approval of the governor, is authorized and empowered to perform such acts and enter into all necessary contracts and agreements with the United States of America or any agency of the United States government that may be necessary in any manner and degree that shall be deemed to be in the best interest of the state. The proceeds of grants received shall be paid to the general treasurer of the state and by him or her deposited in a separate fund and shall be utilized for the purposes of the grants.
R.I. Gen. Laws § 42-83-3