JOINT RESOLUTION REQUESTING THAT THE CANNABIS CONTROL COMMISSION PROVIDE THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY WITH RECOMMENDATIONS ON LEGISLATION TO REGULATE AND LICENSE CANNABINOIDS AND HEMP-DERIVED BEVERAGES

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Bob Britto and 7 co-sponsors

Rhode Island would have the Cannabis Control Commission study and recommend a unified regulatory framework for cannabinoids and hemp-infused beverages, covering dosing, packaging,

07/05/2025 Effective without Governor's signature

Title and Status

Bill: SR 984 (Sub A) — Joint Resolution requesting that the Cannabis Control Commission provide the General Assembly with recommendations on legislation to regulate and license cannabinoids and hemp-derived beverages

Status: Effective without Governor's signature as of July 5, 2025

Introduced: April 16, 2025

Referred to: Senate Judiciary

Version: Substitute A (LC002704/SUB A)

Purpose and Intent

The resolution seeks to have the Rhode Island Cannabis Control Commission (CCC) study and prepare legislative recommendations on a unified regulatory framework for cannabinoids and hemp-derived beverages, including hemp THC-infused beverages.

It emphasizes the need to protect public health and safety, address potential underage access, and provide clear guidance to industry to participate in a growing hemp/cannabis economy.

Key Provisions and Provisions Under Study

The CCC is directed to consult with medical experts and relevant state agencies (Department of Health, Department of Revenue, Department of Business Regulation) to develop recommendations on:

Dosage limits
Packaging standards
Labeling requirements
Licensing conditions
Age requirements and other safeguards to prevent underage access
Best practices from other states regulating ingestible hemp products

The aim is to create a cohesive regulatory framework that would cover both cannabis products and hemp-derived products (specifically hemp THC-infused beverages), reducing regulatory confusion and promoting compliance.

The CCC must complete these recommendations prior to March 1, 2026.

Affected Parties and Stakeholders

State agencies: Cannabis Control Commission (lead), Department of Health, Department of Revenue, Department of Business Regulation

Industry: Cannabis and hemp product producers, distributors, retailers, and venues selling hemp THC-infused beverages

Public: Rhode Island residents, with particular focus on youth protection and public health

General Assembly: Receives the CCC’s recommendations to consider potential future legislation

Procedural and Timeline Aspects

Timeline: Prior to March 1, 2026, the CCC must consult with experts and agencies and develop recommendations.

Transmission: The Secretary of State is directed to transmit certified copies of the resolution and related communications to CCC commissioners and the DBR administrator.

Legislative path: The measure advanced through Senate and House processes in June 2025, was transmitted to the Governor on June 27, 2025, and became effective without the Governor’s signature on July 5, 2025.

Relationship to Existing Law

Builds on Rhode Island’s Cannabis Act, which established a regulatory framework for cannabis via the CCC.

Recognizes hemp-derived products, including hemp THC-infused beverages, as an emerging category requiring careful study to harmonize regulation with existing cannabis rules and public health protections.

Potential Impact and Implications

Structures a formal, expedited study and set of recommendations that could inform future legislation or regulatory updates.

If adopted, could lead to new or revised regulations governing dosage, packaging, labeling, licensing, and age verification for cannabinoids and hemp-derived beverages.

Aims to provide industry clarity, support small businesses, and strengthen safeguards against underage consumption while promoting a coordinated regulatory approach.

Bill