R.I. Gen. Laws § 45-9-1

It shall be the policy of the state to provide a mechanism for the state to work with cities, towns, and fire districts undergoing financial distress that threatens the fiscal well-being, public safety, and welfare of such cities, towns, and fire districts or other cities, towns, fire districts or the state, with the state providing varying levels of support and control depending on the circumstances. The powers delegated by the general assembly in this chapter shall be carried out having due regard for the needs of the citizens of the state and of the city, town, or fire district and in such a manner as will best preserve the safety and welfare of citizens of the state and their property and the access of the state, its municipalities, and fire districts to capital markets, all to the public benefit and good.