R.I. Gen. Laws § 46-3-2

Consistent with the legislative determination and declaration of state policy to protect and promote the health, safety, and welfare of the people as heretofore set forth in this chapter, it is hereby declared to be the intention of the state, by cooperative means providing for the acquisition, by purchase or otherwise, of lands, or any rights, title, interest, or estate in lands in beach areas vulnerable to storm damage, to assist municipalities in arresting, protecting, and preserving the beach areas from erosion and damage by the elements.