Rhode Island Governor’s Budget Includes Legal Marijuana Sales In State-Run Stores

The governor of Rhode Island called for marijuana legalization through a state-run program on Thursday, including the proposal in her fiscal year 2021 budget. Gov. Gina Raimondo (D) said that adult-use cannabis shops should be operated by the government, which will source marijuana products through a contractor. While lawmakers in other states have floated the idea of a state-run program, none have ben enacted thus far. “This legalization takes the form of a state-control model, similar to how liquor sales are regulated in New Hampshire and over a dozen states,” the budget states. “This regulatory approach will allow the state to control distribution, prevent youth consumption, and protect public health.” Revenue from cannabis sales will be distributed between the state (61 percent), the contractor (29 percent) and municipalities (10 percent). The governor estimated that Rhode Island will take in $21.8 million in fiscal year 2020, $21.1 million in 2021 and $39.6 million in 2022, with revenue expected to grow by three percent each subsequent year. “A State-control model for adult-use marijuana distribution would enhance the State’s ability to control the marketplace, deter over-consumption, and mitigate problematic, profit-driven practices.” Under the plan, adults would be able to purchase up to one…

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Source : MJ moment
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