Bill > S2980

This bill makes several changes to Rhode Island's cannabis laws, primarily focusing on applications for licenses, the social equity assistance program, and how cannabis tax revenue is used. It clarifies that convictions for cannabis possession alone will not automatically disqualify someone from obtaining a cannabis license, unless the crime involved distribution to a minor or substantially relates to the occupation, and it establishes a presumption of rehabilitation for convictions older than five years. The bill also significantly expands the Social Equity Assistance Program and creates a new "disproportionately impacted areas investment fund" to support public housing, education, and health initiatives in communities that have been negatively affected by past cannabis enforcement. A substantial portion of the state's cannabis excise tax revenue will now be directed to these social equity and investment funds, with specific allocations changing after five years, while sales tax revenue will continue to go to the general fund.

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