Bill > H8265

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 individuals with certain prior cannabis convictions will not be automatically disqualified from obtaining a cannabis license, especially if the conviction occurred more than five years before the application date, and specifies that juvenile adjudications, arrests without conviction, and expunged or annulled convictions cannot be used against an applicant. The bill also expands the definition of a "social equity applicant" to include those who have resided in disproportionately impacted areas or have family members affected by past cannabis laws, and it establishes a dedicated "disproportionately impacted areas investment fund" to support public housing, education, and health initiatives in these areas. Furthermore, the bill alters the distribution of cannabis tax revenue, directing a significant portion to the social equity assistance fund and the new disproportionately impacted areas investment fund, with specific percentages allocated to each for the first five years and then a 50/50 split thereafter, while sales tax revenue continues to go to the general fund.

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