Billboard in Providence promotes legalized marijuana

PROVIDENCE — A new highway billboard has been unveiled in Providence.

It's meant to get the attention of local lawmakers, and show them that marijuana could mean big business for the state.

There's a bill up at the State House that would legalize, regulate and tax marijuana in Rhode Island.

One local group, Regulate Rhode Island, is showing their support.

The group said this could be the answer to the state's economic troubles by attracting young talent and jobs to Rhode Island.

The leader of Regulate Rhode Island didn't say exactly how many jobs could be created, but noted it could be hundreds or thousands.

While lawmakers are discussing moving the PawSox stadium to Providence, the group said this would generate nearly $60 million a year in tax revenue.

Legalizing it would also allow research universities to study its medical benefits.

The group points to Colorado as an example of what could happen in the Ocean State.

"It's been attracting millennials, who create jobs and drive the innovation economy," said Jared Moffat, director of Regulate Rhode Island. "It has been pointed out that Rhode Island has a brain drain problem, and passing this legislation could help reverse that trend, helping to retain much of the young talent that currently leaves our state after graduation."

If marijuana is legalized, it would only be for adults.

Of course, there are still some critics of legalization in Rhode Island and across the country who believe the drug is harmful and could cause further problems.