Consumers have started queuing up to purchase recreational marijuana, just six months after Governor Dan McKee signed a law allowing individuals aged 21 and over to buy it.
At present, five stores have been allowed to sell recreational marijuana products, but according to the law, the state could eventually have as many as 33 stores. So far, the state's Marijuana Regulation Office has authorized stores to open in Central Falls, Providence, Pawtucket, Portsmouth, and Warwick. These five stores have already started selling medical marijuana.
Last week, the Democratic governor stated in a press release, "This milestone is the result of carefully executed procedures to ensure our state enters this emerging market in a safe, controlled, and fair manner.
According to Joe Pakuris, people were already waiting outside when Mother Earth Wellness, located in Poteau, opened its doors at 5:00 AM on Thursday. Usually opening at 8:00 AM, the store began its first ever recreational sale at 5:18 in the morning.
He said that as of midday, the store had already served around 300 customers, of which roughly 80% were recreational marijuana buyers.
We had a very successful day," he said. "I think it was a smooth transition and the state did an excellent job in implementing the plan. Everything went great.
In addition to a 7% state sales tax and a 3% local sales tax imposed by cities or towns, the law also levies a 10% state marijuana consumption tax. It is estimated to generate approximately $15 million in tax revenue during the first full fiscal year of sales.
It is illegal to smoke or consume cannabis in any public place where smoking or tobacco use is prohibited, as well as any location that may harm children. Under the influence of cannabis, individuals are also prohibited from driving a vehicle.
The legislation also stipulates the expungement of any prior convictions for possession of marijuana, which will be decriminalized.
Approximately 20 states across the country have approved the sale of recreational marijuana, including neighboring Massachusetts, where it has been legal for about four years. In Connecticut, recreational marijuana has been legalized, but sales are not expected to begin until next year.
Not everyone is happy, as state law enforcement agencies express concern about the possibility of more damaged drivers on the roads.
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