With ‘reluctance,’ Raimondo to propose legalization of recreational pot for R.I.

Providence (AP) — Gov. Gina Raimondo says with “reluctance” she will propose within the next week that Rhode Island legalize the sale of marijuana for recreational use.

The Democrat tells The Providence Journal for a story Sunday the state is facing the “inevitable” prospect of being encircled by states that have legalized recreational marijuana.

The first recreational pot shops opened in Massachusetts late last year and Connecticut, New York and New Jersey are considering legalization.

She says her proposal, included in her budget plan, would create one of the most regulated recreational pot industries in the country, to reduce the health and safety problems experienced in some other states.

If her proposal is approved by lawmakers, the first recreational stores could open by next January.

Rhode Island approved the use of medical marijuana in 2007.