R.I. Gen. Laws § 42-12-17

The department of human services with the approval of the governor is hereby authorized to enter into an agreement on behalf of the state with the secretary of Health, Education and Welfare of the United States to carry out the provisions of the federal Social Security Act, 42 U.S.C. § 301 et seq., relating to the making of determinations of disability. The general treasurer is hereby authorized and directed to act as custodian of the moneys paid by the federal government to the state to carry out the agreement referred to in this section and shall disburse the moneys in accordance with the direction of the department of human services.