R.I. Gen. Laws § 33-16-26
Whenever, in any proceeding under the laws of this state for the commitment of a person alleged to be of unsound mind or otherwise in need of confinement in a hospital or other institution for his or her proper care, it is determined after adjudication of the status of the person as may be required by law that commitment to a hospital for mental disease or other institution is necessary for safekeeping or treatment and it appears that the person is eligible for care or treatment by the veterans administration or other agency of the United States government, the court, upon receipt of a certificate from the veterans administration or other agency showing that facilities are available and that the person is eligible for care or treatment therein, may commit the person to the veterans administration or other agency. The person whose commitment is sought shall be personally served with notice of the pending commitment proceeding in the manner as provided by the law of this state; and nothing in this chapter shall affect his or her right to appear and be heard in the proceedings.
R.I. Gen. Laws § 33-16-26