Rhode Island Lawmakers Recess Legislative Session; Widely Supported Bill to Regulate Marijuana Like Alcohol Remains on the Table

The Marijuana Regulation, Control, and Taxation Act had bipartisan backing in both chambers, and an April poll found 57% of Rhode Island voters in favor of such a measure

PROVIDENCE, RI — Rhode Island state lawmakers recessed the legislative session late Thursday leaving hundreds of bills, including a widely supported proposal to make marijuana legal for adults and regulate it similarly to alcohol, pending action.

Legislative leaders have indicated they may call a special session in the fall to finish their agenda.

“Lawmakers’ decision to recess without voting on this widely supported legislation is disappointing, to say the least,” said Regulate Rhode Island Director Jared Moffat. “We believe we have the votes needed to pass the measure this session, and we’re optimistic that…