R.I. Gen. Laws § 40.1-5-16

The general assembly shall annually appropriate such sums as it may deem necessary for the payment of the salaries of such clerical assistance as may be deemed necessary and for the payment of office expenses and other actual expenses incurred by the mental health advocate in the performance of his or her duties; and the state controller is hereby authorized and directed to draw his or her orders upon the general treasurer for the payment of such sum or sums, or so much thereof, as may from time to time be required, upon receipt by him or her of proper vouchers approved by the mental health advocate.