Despite reluctance, adult-use marijuana could be a priority for RI lawmakers in 2019

Opportunities for new and brisk cannabis businesses could develop in a number of states that might legalize adult-use marijuana in 2019, according to some industry experts.

One state on that radar is Rhode Island.

And, noting some hesitancy, the state’s Democratic lawmakers said they will likely discuss whether to legalize recreational cannabis in 2019.

Gov. Gina Raimondo said she’s looking at legalizing recreational use more seriously than she has in past years because “our hand is being forced by all of our neighbors.”

Massachusetts has legalized cannabis for adult use, and Connecticut’s incoming governor supports legalizing recreational marijuana there.

Rhode Island House Speaker Nicholas Mattiello said he’s open to discussing it, given the state could be burdened with the social costs of marijuana use without receiving any revenue.

Dominick Ruggerio, Rhode Island’s senate president, is more reluctant and points to a number of concerns – including marijuana use in the workplace.

– Associated Press