R.I. Gen. Laws § 39-3-25
The proceedings for obtaining the consent and approval of the division for such authority shall be as follows: There shall be filed with the division a petition, joint or otherwise, as the case may be, signed and verified by the president and secretary of the respective companies clearly setting forth the object and purposes desired; stating whether or not it is for the purchase, sale, lease, or making of contracts or for any other purpose in § 39-3-24 provided; and also the terms and conditions of the same. The division shall upon the filing of the petition, if it deem a hearing necessary, fix a time and place for the hearing thereof. If, after the hearing, or, in case no hearing is required, the division is satisfied that the prayer of the petition should be granted; that the facilities for furnishing service to the public will not thereby be diminished; and that the purchase, sale, or lease and the terms thereof are consistent with the public interest, it shall make such order in the premises as it may deem proper and the circumstances may require.
R.I. Gen. Laws § 39-3-25