R.I. Gen. Laws § 13-7-8
When the state purchasing agent or agent of any state office, department, or institution has occasion to purchase any articles, services or materials similar to those produced in the adult correctional institutions, and notification of that production has been given to him or her pursuant to § 13-7-7, he or she shall make requisition for the articles, services or materials to the director of corrections, the provisions of any statute, resolution, rule, or regulation to the contrary notwithstanding. The requisition shall conform to specifications and descriptions previously submitted by the director unless it appears that special style, design, or quality is needed. The requisition shall be on forms provided by the director. If the articles or materials are needed immediately and are not on hand, or the articles, services, or materials can be purchased at a price less than the quote received by the requisitioner from the adult correctional institutions, the director shall immediately notify the requisitioner and he or she may purchase the articles, services or materials elsewhere.
R.I. Gen. Laws § 13-7-8