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Rhode Island Lawmakers Are Fighting Over Marijuana Rules

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Democratic leaders in Rhode Island have submitted bills to veto powers given to the state’s General Assembly to expand the medical marijuana program. Governor Raimondo proposed that 6 new dispensaries be allowed to open, but only in specific areas, and that the incoming dispensaries be prohibited from cultivating their own product.

Democrats have also accused Governor Raimondo of “blatant overreach,” according to the Providence Journal. The General Assembly rejected Raimondo’s proposals last year. This has resulted in quite a squabble between the Governor and lawmakers.

House Speaker Nicholas Mattiello said, “The legislation introduced today fulfills the General Assembly’s pledge to repeal language contained in FY 2020 budget which required legislators to approve rules and regulations relating to the expansion of compassion center licenses. The General Assembly has done what it promised to do. However, the fact remains that the Department of Business Regulation’s proposed regulations, which must comply with the legislation, represent a blatant overreach by the executive branch. Our bill clarifies the regulatory powers granted to the executive branch regarding the expansion of compassion center licenses.”

This battle will likely be settled in court. All sides of the argument can’t come to an agreement when it comes to proper expansion of the Rhode Island medical marijuana program.