Rhode Island has officially joined the growing list of U.S. states where marijuana is fully legal for both medical and recreational use. Since the passage of the Rhode Island Cannabis Act in May 2022, and the launch of recreational sales in December of that year, the Ocean State has seen significant legal, economic, and social changes surrounding cannabis.
Recreational Marijuana Is Legal for Adults 21+
As of 2025, adults aged 21 and older in Rhode Island can legally possess and consume cannabis. The law permits:
- Possession of up to 1 ounce of cannabis in public
- Up to 10 ounces of cannabis stored securely at home
- Home cultivation of six plants per household (three mature, three immature)
This legalization aligns Rhode Island with neighboring states like Massachusetts and Connecticut, further normalizing adult-use cannabis in the New England region.
Cannabis Industry Brings in Millions
In the first three months of legal sales, Rhode Island’s cannabis industry brought in over $28 million in revenue. According to data from the Rhode Island Cannabis Control Commission, nearly $5 million in tax revenue was generated during this period.
This figure is expected to grow as the state issues more retail licenses and local cannabis businesses mature.
Medical Marijuana Still Available
Rhode Island has had a medical marijuana program since 2006. Under the program, qualifying patients are allowed to:
- Possess up to 2.5 ounces of cannabis
- Grow up to 12 mature and 12 immature plants
- Purchase cannabis from state-licensed compassion centers
Patients must register with the state and obtain a medical marijuana card. Details on qualifications and applications can be found on the RI Department of Health’s Medical Marijuana Program page.
Cannabis Control Commission and Regulation
The Cannabis Control Commission was established to regulate both the adult-use and medical cannabis markets. In May 2025, the Commission finalized its regulations, marking a major milestone in the implementation of Rhode Island’s Cannabis Act.
The state will issue 24 new retail licenses, distributed across six geographic zones. These licenses include:
- Allocations for social equity applicants
- Worker-owned cooperatives to encourage inclusive participation
More information can be found in the Commission’s public updates at DBR Cannabis Control Commission News.
Social Equity and Criminal Record Expungement
One of the central aims of the Cannabis Act is to promote social equity by addressing historical injustices caused by cannabis prohibition. The law mandates:
- Automatic expungement of certain marijuana-related criminal records
- Expungements to be completed by July 1, 2024
- Support for businesses in communities disproportionately impacted by past enforcement
Rhode Islanders can check their expungement eligibility via the Rhode Island Judiciary’s Expungement Resources.
Local Authority and Zoning
While cannabis is legal statewide, municipalities have the right to regulate:
- Where cannabis businesses can operate
- Whether public consumption is permitted in parks and other areas
- Zoning rules for cultivation or retail sales
Many towns opted out of allowing retail locations during the early rollout but may reconsider as the state’s legal market expands.
Restrictions Still Apply
Despite legalization, some restrictions remain:
- Public consumption is not permitted unless explicitly allowed by a municipality
- Driving under the influence of cannabis remains strictly illegal
- Only adults 21+ can legally purchase or possess cannabis for recreational use
- Federal properties in Rhode Island still prohibit cannabis use under federal law
For safe usage guidelines and legal advice, consult the Rhode Island Cannabis Resource Hub.
Summary
Legal cannabis in Rhode Island has ushered in new opportunities and responsibilities for residents, businesses, and lawmakers alike. Whether you’re a recreational user, a medical patient, or simply curious about your rights and responsibilities, staying informed is crucial.
From economic growth to criminal justice reform, the legalization of marijuana in Rhode Island represents more than a change in law — it’s a shift in how the state approaches public health, equity, and commerce.
For the latest updates, visit the official Office of Cannabis Regulation.
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