The general assembly shall annually appropriate any sums as it deems necessary for support and maintenance of elementary and secondary education in the state and the state controller is authorized and directed to draw his or her orders upon the general treasurer for the payment of those appropriations or so much of this sum as may be necessary for the purposes appropriated, upon the receipt by the controller of proper vouchers as the board of regents for elementary and secondary education may by rule provide. The regents shall receive, review, and adjust the budget of its several subordinate committees and agencies and present the budget as part of the budget for elementary and secondary education.
R.I. Gen. Laws § 16-60-8