Rhode Island General Laws Title 40.1. Behavioral Healthcare, Developmental Disabilities and Hospitals § 40.1-8.5-1. Policy and purpose

(a) The state recognizes that children and adults with mental disabilities are entitled to appropriate, accessible, and adequate mental health services in the least restrictive environment that appropriately can serve their needs.

(b) The state recognizes private, nonprofit community mental health centers that provide mental health services to children and adults with mental disabilities, and it is the policy of the state to support these mental health centers as an adjunct and alternative to inpatient services.  The state shall fund community mental health centers and shall provide a mechanism by which the state and local governments share responsibility for ensuring community mental health services to mentally disabled children and adults and/or those who are unable to pay for mental health services.