Rhode Island has specific regulations and laws around how to open and operate a cannabis business. In Rhode Island, cannabis is approved for medicinal and recreational purposes.
In 2022, Rhode Island became the 19th state in the U.S. to legalize cannabis use for both recreational and medicinal purposes. Medicinal marijuana use has been legal since 2006.
Cannabis dispensaries in Rhode Island are regulated by the Office of Cannabis Regulation division of the Department of Business Regulation.
At this time, dispensaries are not required to carry any particular level of insurance to operate. The only exceptions are Rhode Island businesses with employees and those with vehicles owned and operated by the dispensary.
According to the Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training, if your dispensary has one or more employees (full or part-time), you'll need workers' compensation insurance. This policy will protect your employees if they're injured while working.
Rhode Island businesses with company vehicles are also mandated to have commercial auto insurance in case there is an accident or incident while driving for business.
Check with your city and county rules and regulations, as cannabis rules can often vary at the local level.
While Rhode Island only requires commercial auto and workers' compensation for dispensaries, cannabis businesses would benefit from:
Rhode Island dispensaries are often referred to as Compassion Centers. To open a cannabis dispensary in Rhode Island, you'll need to abide by a number of rules and regulations. Cannabis dispensaries in Rhode Island requirements include:
Keep in mind that not all Rhode Island cities and counties allow dispensaries. There are additional guidelines and restrictions [PDF] around how dispensaries can advertise their products within the state.
Business insurance is essential to protecting your customers, employees, and investments. Start an easy online application now to get quotes for your cannabis dispensary.
For other cannabis businesses, you can call our dedicated agent at (872) 260-5150 to get insurance quotes for your business.