R.I. Gen. Laws § 28-5-42

The fact that an individual has applied for, received, or continues to receive private insurance or government assistance on the basis of a physical or mental impairment shall not, by itself, relieve or excuse any employer, employment agency, or labor organization from its obligations under this chapter, but may be considered as evidence by the commission or court in its determination, nor does such a fact serve as an estoppel or otherwise preclude an individual with a disability from obtaining the protections of this chapter.