R.I. Gen. Laws § 37-2-47

This section shall apply to a claim or controversy arising under contracts between the state and its contractors. If the claim or controversy is not resolved by mutual agreement, the chief purchasing officer or his or her designee, shall promptly issue a decision in writing. A copy of that decision shall be mailed or otherwise furnished to the contractor. If the chief purchasing officer does not issue a written decision within thirty (30) days after written request for a final decision, or within such longer period as might be established by the parties to the contract in writing, then the contractor may proceed as if an adverse decision had been received.