Gov. Raimondo to propose legalization of recreational marijuana
By News Staff
Email: news@abc6.com
Twitter: @ABC6
PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) – Governor Gina Raimondo announced Sunday that she will propose the legalization of recreational marijuana in Rhode Island.
Josh Block, Raimondo’s press secretary, confirmed that her 2019-2020 proposal will include “the legalization and strict regulation of adult-use marijuana.”
“As our neighboring states move forward with legal marijuana, the Governor is mindful of its impacts on Rhode Island, from law enforcement to public health”, Block said.
The statement added that the Governor’s proposal “will give Rhode Island the strongest regulatory framework for adult-use marijuana in the nation.”
Spokesperson for Attorney General Peter Neronha, Kristy DosReis, said their office “intends to carefully review the Governor’s proposed legislation.”
“Attorney General Neronha recognizes that as surrounding states legalize the recreational use of marijuana, it is increasingly difficult for Rhode Island to do otherwise. That said, the Attorney General strongly believes that should Rhode Island legalize adult recreational use, it is imperative for strong regulatory measures to be put in place”, DosReis said.
They intend to work closely with the Governor to ensure they are “examining the issue from all angles.”
Rhode Islanders we spoke to were pleased after hearing the announcement from Raimondo.
“It’s gonna help boost the economy. It’s gonna happen either way, the use of recreational marijuana. We might as well tax it,” said Annette Ogunnaike of East Providence.
“If people want it, they’re gonna get it, so might as well have it nearby and tax it so that it does well for the economy as well,” said Austin Therrien of Pawtucket.
The Rhode Island Department of Business Regulation is set to provide more details on the proposal during a press conference Monday morning.
©WLNE-TV/ABC6 2019
