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Rhode Island Cannabis Control Commission Unanimously Approves Final Cannabis Regulations
Regulations take effect May 1, marking full transition of regulatory authority to the Cannabis Control Commission
WARWICK, R.I. – The Rhode Island Cannabis Control Commission (CCC) voted today to approve its final regulations governing adult-use and medical cannabis, marking a major step in the full implementation of the Rhode Island Cannabis Act.
Immediately following the vote, the CCC will submit the regulations to the Secretary of State’s Office. Per state law, they will become effective after 20 days, on May 1, 2025. On that date, the CCC will assume full authority over the regulation, licensing, and enforcement of Rhode Island’s adult-use and medical cannabis programs.
“These finalized regulations reflect my administration’s commitment to ensuring that cannabis oversight in Rhode Island is fair, transparent, and rooted in safety,” said Governor McKee. “I’m grateful to the commission members, stakeholders, and industry leaders whose collaboration helped shape a strong, thoughtful regulatory framework for our state.”
As part of this transition, the former Office of Cannabis Regulation (OCR), previously within the Department of Business Regulation, will become the newly established Cannabis Office, which will oversee the day-to-day operations of the cannabis industry in Rhode Island, led by Administrator Michelle Reddish.
The Commission’s final regulations reflect feedback from 381 public comments and a broad range of stakeholder input. They establish a comprehensive framework to ensure that Rhode Island’s cannabis market operates with transparency, safety, and equity at its core.
“These final regulations represent our collective commitment to regulate our growing cannabis industry in a way that is safe, transparent, and equitable. Through extensive public feedback, we’ve ensured that these regulations prioritize safety, industry compliance, and the voices of communities that have been historically harmed by cannabis prohibition. I would like to sincerely thank industry members, stakeholders, members of the Cannabis Advisory Board, our staff, and my fellow Commissioners who contributed to this monumental effort,” said Commission Chair Kim Ahern.
Commissioner Robert Jacquard emphasized, “The success of a regulated cannabis market depends on strong safety standards. With these regulations, we are ensuring that every product meets rigorous quality controls and that businesses follow strict security and compliance measures to protect consumers and communities alike.”
Commissioner Layi Oduyingbo added, “Rhode Islanders deserve a cannabis market that is governed by clear, fair, and accessible rules. These regulations create a system where businesses, consumers, and the public all have the information they need to engage with confidence.”
The final regulations cover all aspects of cannabis in Rhode Island, including enforcement, licensing, business operations, and personal and medical cultivation. Notably, they include robust equity provisions, including the Social Equity Assistance Program and Fund, aimed at addressing the harms of prior cannabis prohibition.
Cannabis Office Administrator Michelle Reddish highlighted, “With a renewed governance structure under the Cannabis Control Commission, the Cannabis Office reinforces its commitment to accountability, public trust, and the responsible growth of Rhode Island’s cannabis market. Building on a strong foundation, the Office is committed to continuous improvement toward operational efficiency, regulatory integrity, and public health as we ensure our strategic direction evolves with the industry.”
The regulations will officially take effect on May 1, 2025.
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About the Rhode Island Cannabis Control Commission
The Cannabis Control Commission is an independent regulatory body established under the Rhode Island Cannabis Act of 2022. The CCC is responsible for licensing, regulation, and enforcement of both adult-use and medical cannabis in the state. With the transition from the Department of Business Regulation now complete, the newly formed Cannabis Office serves as the operational arm of the Commission, supporting the safe, equitable, and effective regulation of cannabis in Rhode Island. |
