Rhode Island Pauses Licensing of Hemp Product Retailers

The Rhode Island Cannabis Control Commission last Friday paused the issuing
of new hemp product retailer licenses, leaving 10 pending applicants in
limbo until potentially March of next year, or even later, the Rhode Island
Current reports. In addition to the pending applications, one current hemp
retailer is also seeking a license renewal.

The commissioners voted unanimously to pause the licensing process until an
ongoing study into the sale of intoxicating THC beverages in liquor stores
and bars is completed.

The General Assembly ordered the study earlier this year, tasking the CCC
to “consult with medical experts and appropriate state agencies and
departments” and make recommendations for THC beverage dosage limits,
packaging and labeling requirements, and licensing conditions, the report
said. The recommendations are due by March 1, 2026.

Meanwhile, some cannabis operators are pushing back on the retail of
intoxicating hemp products, arguing that the products typically come from
out-of-state and do not follow the same testing requirements that cannabis
products do.

“If it’s not been tested by a state-certified laboratory it’s difficult to
say what’s on the side of the tin is what people are getting.” — Stuart
Procter, co-founder and lab director for PureVita Labs, via the Current

Hemp-derived THC beverages have been available at properly licensed Rhode
Island restaurants, bars, and liquor stores since last summer.