our roots
Thomas C. Slater is universally regarded as the father of Rhode Island’s medical marijuana program. As a member of the Rhode Island General Assembly, Tom fought tirelessly for passage of the state’s medical marijuana law in 2006.
The legislation, which bears his name, protects patients with chronic and debilitating medical conditions who engage in the medical use of marijuana. Tom was also the driving force behind a 2009 amendment to the law, which allowed for the creation of state-licensed medical marijuana compassion centers to make it safer and easier for patients to obtain medical cannabis.
Despite being seriously ill with cancer, Representative Slater faithfully attended legislative sessions that summer to gain passage of the amendment. He did so through a steely resolve, earning him the collective admiration of his legislative colleagues.
The compassion center law was his final legislative accomplishment before he died in August 2009. He was 68 years old. A proud Marine and even prouder husband, father and grandfather, Tom Slater will never be forgotten for his advocacy on behalf of the sick, the poor and those less fortunate among us.
blazing trails
The Thomas C. Slater Compassion Center, named after a true pioneer, was Rhode Island’s first medical cannabis dispensary when we opened our doors in April 2013. You’ll feel Tom’s spirit in everything we do here, and we’re all about following his lead in showing compassion to everyone who walks through our doors.
Slater’s impact has become a key part of Rhode Island’s culture and history. His vision for making medical cannabis accessible and respectful has set the bar high, and we’re here to keep that vision alive. At the Slater Center, we’re dedicated to providing safe, dignified, and affordable access to medical marijuana for all our patients.
By keeping Tom’s memory and spirit alive, we’re not just honoring his legacy—we’re making sure his commitment to compassion continues to shape the way we serve our beautiful state.
