The bill amends Section 21-28.11-6 of the Rhode Island Cannabis Act to update the structure and responsibilities of the cannabis advisory board. The advisory board will now focus on advising the commission on matters relating to the regulation and policy development of the state's cannabis program. It will convene at the request of the commission to address specific questions and provide recommendations.

The membership structure of the advisory board has been revised to consist of eleven voting members, including a chairperson appointed by the governor. The previous requirement for eight non-voting members has been eliminated.

Additionally, the bill removes the statutory requirement for specific subcommittees within the advisory board that were previously designated to focus on public health, public safety, the cannabis industry, market participation, and social equity. This change aims to streamline the advisory board's operations and enhance its ability to respond to the commission's needs. The act will take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
2962: 21-28.11-6