Rhode Island General Laws Title 28. Labor and Labor Relations § 28-42-36. Personnel of department

The director is authorized, within his or her means, and in accordance with the State Merit System Act, chapters 3 and 4 of title 36, rules, and regulations, to appoint and fix the compensation of any officers, accountants, and other persons that are necessary in the execution of the functions of his or her department. The director shall not employ or pay any person who is serving as an officer or committee member of any political party organization or who is a member of the general assembly. The director, in accordance with the State Merit System Act, chapters 3 and 4 of title 36, rules, and regulations, shall fix the duties and powers of all persons thus employed, and may authorize any person to do any act or acts that could lawfully be done by the director. The director may in his or her discretion bond any person handling moneys or signing checks under this section.