It was almost three years ago when Rhode Island became the 19th state to legalize adult-use recreational marijuana. Supporters praised the move as a way to generate state revenue, keep money from migrating to Massachusetts and ensure a safe product for users. Rhode Island’’s approach was touted for including so-called social equity elements to help people hurt by the war on drugs. Three years later, though, the state has yet to move ahead with issuing licenses for 24 new pot shops. There are also questions about the effect of legalizing recreational marijuana. So what does a key state official have to say about driving while stoned? When will Rhode Island actually move ahead with awarding licenses for new pot shops? And will the state’s legalization law really live up to the billing about promoting social equity? This week on Political Roundtable, I’m going in-depth with Kim Ahern, chairwoman of the state Cannabis Control Commission.

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