WARWICK, RI – The Rhode Island Senate has confirmed Michelle A. Reddish as Chairperson of the Rhode Island Cannabis Control Commission and confirmed Robert B. Jacquard to an additional term on the Commission, with both terms expiring on May 17, 2032.
Reddish, who has served as Administrator of the Cannabis Office since 2024, assumes the role of Chairperson following her nomination by Governor Daniel McKee. As Administrator, she has played a central role in developing Rhode Island’s cannabis regulatory framework, supporting implementation of adult-use cannabis regulations, leading the Cannabis Office’s inspection and enforcement efforts, and supporting the transition of hemp and hemp-derived product oversight to the Commission. Her work has helped launch implementation of one of Rhode Island’s most significant new regulatory programs, grounded in public health, safety, transparency, and equity. Reddish holds a master’s degree in public health and healthcare management and completed Leadership Rhode Island’s Phi II Class in 2025. Her academic background and leadership development experience further strengthens her commitment to advancing effective public policy, regulatory excellence, and community-centered governance.
Jacquard, a lifelong Cranston resident and attorney, has served on the Commission since its inception. A former Cranston Police Sergeant, Assistant City Solicitor, and member of the Rhode Island House of Representatives for nearly three decades, Jacquard has brought extensive experience in public policy, law, and public service to the Commission during its formative years. During his legislative service, he held several leadership roles, including Speaker Pro Tempore, Chair of the House Committee on Corporations, and member of the House Finance Committee.
“Michelle and Bob have been instrumental in helping Rhode Island as we build a strong, transparent, and responsible cannabis regulatory system,” said Governor Dan McKee. “I thank them for their continued service, and I am confident they will help advance the Commission’s important work in the years ahead.”
“Michelle and Bob have been invaluable partners as the Commission has worked to implement the Rhode Island Cannabis Act,” said Commissioner Layi Oduyingbo. “Michelle has demonstrated exceptional leadership in building the Cannabis Office and advancing the Commission’s regulatory responsibilities, while Bob’s experience and steady guidance have helped shape the agency since its inception. I look forward to continuing our work together.”
“I am deeply honored and grateful for the confidence placed in me by Governor McKee and the Rhode Island Senate,” said Reddish. “I remain committed to supporting a cannabis regulatory framework grounded in public health, safety, transparency, and equity, and I look forward to continuing this important work on behalf of the people of Rhode Island.”
“It has been a privilege to serve on the Commission and help guide implementation of the Rhode Island Cannabis Act,” said Jacquard. “I am grateful for the opportunity to continue serving and look forward to supporting the Commission’s ongoing work in the years ahead.”
Governor McKee has appointed Kate Pirraglia as Interim Administrator of the Cannabis Office while a search is conducted for a permanent administrator. Pirraglia currently serves as Senior Advisor and Special Counsel in the Governor’s Office.
The Cannabis Control Commission is responsible for the regulation, licensing, and enforcement of Rhode Island’s medical cannabis, adult-use cannabis, hemp, and hemp-derived product programs. Since its establishment, the Commission has overseen the continued expansion and regulation of Rhode Island’s cannabis industry while advancing initiatives focused on public health, safety, transparency, and equity.
For additional information, www.ccc.ri.gov.
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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, and hemp in the state. The Cannabis Office serves as the operational arm of the Commission, supporting the safe, equitable, and effective regulation of cannabis in Rhode Island.
