Warwick, RI – The Rhode Island Cannabis Control Commission voted 2‑1 on Friday to expand the window during which licensed dispensaries may deliver cannabis to customers’ doors. Under the new schedule, deliveries may occur from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m., an hour earlier and three hours later than the previous 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. window.
Commission members weigh safety and convenience
Commissioner Layi Oduyingbo argued that extending delivery hours is a logical step for a growing industry. “Just continuing to move forward in this industry any way we can, and extending the delivery hours looks like a way we could do that,” Oduyingbo said.
Opposing member Robert Jacquard expressed concern that later deliveries could increase the risk of violence. “The later you go into the evening, I just think it invites the potential for violence, and I don’t agree with endorsing that type of a system to be delivering at those late hours,” he said.
Local shoppers split on the idea
Outside Solar Cannabis Co. in Warwick, opinions were divided. One shopper, who asked to remain anonymous, called the concept “half‑baked,” likening it to “delivering liquor to a house” and questioning who would receive the product.
In contrast, Kaden Short, a regular customer, supported the change. “If people can get liquor delivered from DoorDash, they should get it from dispensaries,” Short said. He added that broader delivery windows could reduce the temptation for drivers to operate vehicles while impaired. “If they really want people to stop driving high, they should just extend the hours and make it more accessible so you don’t have people driving and smoking on the way home,” he argued.
Commission chair cites public demand
Chair Michelle Reddish noted that the commission had received multiple petitions requesting longer delivery windows. “We’ve had a couple petitions now requesting those delivery hours be extended, so licensees are just looking for an opportunity to expand their time earlier in the morning and a little later in the afternoon,” Reddish explained.
The vote reflects a broader trend among states that have legalized cannabis: many are experimenting with delivery models to increase access while attempting to maintain public safety. Rhode Island’s decision aligns with neighboring states that have already approved extended delivery windows.
What the change means for residents
For consumers, the new hours could mean greater flexibility, especially for those who work non‑traditional schedules or who prefer to avoid in‑person visits to dispensaries. For delivery drivers, the shift could translate into longer workdays, with the potential for up to 15 hours of driving per day.
Industry observers will watch how law‑enforcement agencies respond to the extended hours, particularly in light of Jacquard’s concerns about nighttime safety. The commission has indicated it will continue to monitor the impact of the change and adjust regulations as needed.
Next steps
Licensed dispensaries must update their operating procedures to comply with the new schedule. The commission plans to review data on delivery incidents and public feedback after a six‑month trial period.
Residents who wish to voice support or opposition can submit comments to the commission during the upcoming public comment window, which opens next month.
Original reporting: NBC 10 WJAR (Sinclair) – local — read the source article.
