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Cannabis Control Commission Opens Applications for Adult-Use Cannabis Retail Licenses
WARWICK, RI – The Cannabis Control Commission made history today as adult-use cannabis retail license applications opened, marking the beginning of the largest expansion to Rhode Island’s cannabis industry. The Commission is authorized under the Rhode Island Cannabis Act to license up to 24 retail establishments statewide, divided equally across six geographic zones, making this announcement a defining moment in shaping the state’s cannabis marketplace.
“Today’s announcement represents years of work, collaboration, and preparation to ensure Rhode Island has a cannabis marketplace that is safe, transparent, and equitable,” said Kim Ahern, Chairperson of the Cannabis Control Commission. “The release of this application and launch of our submission portal is not only about opening doors for businesses but about creating meaningful opportunities for Rhode Islanders while keeping public health and public safety at the center of everything we do.”
With only 24 retail licenses available statewide, the launch of the application process is expected to draw significant interest from prospective applicants. Together with the Social Equity Applicant Status Certification Portal, which opened in August, the application process reflects the Commission’s deliberate steps toward building a cannabis industry that prioritizes economic opportunity, equity, and fairness in Rhode Island.
"Rhode Island's cannabis market is poised for growth, and this application is helping us do exactly that," said Governor McKee. "As we expand the cannabis industry here in the Ocean State, we're opening the doors to new investment, new good-paying jobs, and new opportunities for our economy."
Adult-use retail licenses will authorize sales of cannabis products to adults aged 21 and older. By releasing the application and opening the submission portal simultaneously, the Commission is providing applicants with a transparent process while reinforcing its commitment to accountability and access.
“Today’s release of the adult-use retail license application reflects the Commission’s commitment to equity and accountability,” said Commission Layi Oduyingbo. “This framework provides applicants with the information they need while reinforcing our responsibility to safeguard public health and consumer safety.”
Commissioner Robert Jacquard added, "The Commission aims to make this application process as business friendly as possible, while upholding standards that will protect public health."
To ensure the process is fair and accessible, the Commission and Cannabis Office will provide technical assistance resources and ongoing guidance for prospective applicants. Applications will be accepted until 4:00 PM EST on December 29, 2025.
“This is a milestone that reflects the dedication and perseverance of so many people,” said Michelle Reddish, Cannabis Office Administrator. “From lawmakers and advocates to community members and our dedicated staff, countless individuals have helped build the foundation for this moment. By publishing the application today, we are taking a historic step toward building a cannabis marketplace that serves consumers, supports equity, and advances public health in Rhode Island.”
The adult-use retail license application is available on the Commission’s website at www.ccc.ri.gov/auapp.
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About the Rhode Island Cannabis Control Commission
The Cannabis Control Commission is an independent regulatory body established under the Rhode Island Cannabis Act of 2022. The CCC is responsible for licensing, regulation, and enforcement of both adult-use and medical cannabis in the state. With the transition from the Department of Business Regulation now complete, the newly formed Cannabis Office serves as the operational arm of the Commission, supporting the safe, equitable, and effective regulation of cannabis in Rhode Island.
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