Rhode Island Social Equity License Reset | Providence News

Rhode Island’s cannabis social equity program is sparking outrage after investors who poured over half a million dollars into licensing applications are forced to restart from scratch — a move that’s gutting their dreams and leaving them with no recourse. Originally designed to uplift communities harmed by past drug laws, the program now locks out those it was meant to help, as new rules disqualify even previously approved applicants. Frustration boils over with protest signs like “The Program Built To Lift Her Up Now Locks Her Out,” highlighting the bitter irony. While the Cannabis Control Commission prioritizes legal compliance over speed, pressure mounts from affected investors and local leaders like former Mayor Allan Fung, who demand licenses by January 1st — a deadline the commission won’t guarantee, leaving the future uncertain for those who’ve already sacrificed everything for this opportunity. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/9ee0d77ac62f15c5