One of Oklahoma's top medical cannabis regulators is Gov. Dan McKee's choice to become Rhode Island's first cannabis administrator. Michelle Reddish was named to lead the state's Cannabis Office — a position tasked with coordinating the oversight and administration of cannabis use in Rhode Island, per the statute that legalized recreational cannabis in 2022 — McKee's office announced Thursday, May 23.
"I'm thrilled to move to beautiful Rhode Island with my children and step into the role of inaugural administrator," Reddish said in a statement. "I am eager to build strong partnerships across the state in support of safe and equitable access to cannabis. The Senate Committee on Judiciary is scheduled to consider Reddish's nomination Thursday, May 30. If confirmed by the whole Senate, Reddish would receive an annual salary of $162,270, said Christina O'Reilly, a spokesperson for the Rhode Island Department of Administration.
Reddish would also have to report directly to the state's Cannabis Control Commission — the three-member panel that regulates and gives licenses to businesses looking to get in on Rhode Island's growing cannabis industry. The commission was formed last June, just a little over a year after recreational cannabis was legalized. Commissioners spent their summer on a listening tour, hearing the concerns of community members and cannabis workers, which include ensuring the commission prioritizes social equity measures.
The commission is still in discussion mode, with input from an 11-member Cannabis Advisory Board, and expects to finalize rules and regulations this year.
Read more at rhodeislandcurrent.com