Yes. The 2022 Rhode Island recreational legalization applies only to adults 21 and over. Marijuana possession by anyone under 21 remains illegal and can result in civil or criminal charges depending on the amount and circumstances. Possession by minors (under 18) can trigger juvenile court proceedings with separate procedural rules. Possession on school grounds or in school buses can result in elevated charges and school disciplinary action. Defense work in under-21 marijuana cases often focuses on diversion programs that avoid a criminal record, particularly for first-time offenders.
