Cannabis Information For Adults

Under the Rhode Island Cannabis Act, adults 21 and older are allowed to possess up to one ounce of cannabis flower on their person (or an equivalent amount of cannabis concentrate) and up to 10 ounces at home. They are also allowed to grow up to three mature and three immature plants. Cannabis not grown at home may be purchased legally from a Rhode Island-licensed dispensary, which offer products that are required to undergo testing for THC concentration, or strength, and contaminants.

Cannabis Strength

Cannabis products can vary widely in THC concentrations, or strength. It is important to carefully read the labels on all cannabis products before using them.

The strength of cannabis has risen sharply over the years. For example, the average THC concentration seized by the US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) was about four percent in 1995; in 2021, that percentage  increased to 15 percent, making it more likely to produce negative effects.

Types Of Cannabis Products

  • Flower: The parts of the cannabis plant that are harvested, dried, and cured for consumption. Flower is most often smoked or vaped.
  • Concentrates: Products that contain high levels of active cannabis ingredients, including THC. Concentrates can come as an oil or a wax and are typically vaped or inhaled through a dabbing tool called a “rig.” There is a greater risk of physical dependence and addiction when using concentrates.
  • Edibles: Food products infused with cannabis, such as cookies, candies, brownies, or drinks. The effects of edibles may be delayed and last up to 12 hours.  
  • Topicals: Cannabis-infused lotions, balms, oils, and other products absorbed through the skin. They are generally applied to treat localized pain and inflammation.
  • Tinctures: Cannabis-infused alcohol or oils taken orally using a dropper or measuring spoon.

Unregulated Cannabis

Synthetic, or laboratory-made, cannabinoids are substances that are chemically similar to cannabis, but often produce very different effects. According to the DEA, synthetic cannabinoids have been linked to several health problems, including elevated heart rate and blood pressure, unconsciousness, tremors, seizures, vomiting, hallucinations, agitation, anxiety, numbness, and tingling. In some instances, these health effects can continue even after a person stops using these substances.

Alternative (alt) cannabinoids come from hemp plants grown under the 2018 Federal Farm Bill and can produce intoxicating effects. Examples of alt cannabinoids are delta-8 THC and delta-10 THC. They are available in a variety of products including vapes, smokable hemp, gummies, chocolates, and infused beverages.  

These drugs may contain unsafe contaminants and can cause negative health effects that include lethargy, slurred speech, difficulty breathing, and coma.