WA Hemp in Food Task Force - Meeting (October 5, 2022) - Summary
The task force received an overview of cannabis extraction and product formulation processes and heard status reports from two work groups as an October 31st deadline drew near.
The task force received an overview of cannabis extraction and product formulation processes and heard status reports from two work groups as an October 31st deadline drew near.
Three Democratic state legislators shared their views on research and pushing legislation around cannabis products with high cannabinoid concentrations, if re-elected.
Just as social equity rulemaking at WSLCB was concluded, a report alleging abusive behavior by a former task force leader reinvigorated lingering public skepticism over agency progress.
As the initial social equity effort was prepared for completion, staff looked ahead to rulemaking projects, a new petition, and two agency work groups being set up.
A research analysis portrayed cannabis consumption, particularly among youth, as one of the top “environmental factors that need to be considered” in mental health policymaking.
A presentation on consumption habits among young adults in Washington described negative health effects, poor academic outcomes, and suicidal thoughts attributed to cannabis use disorder.
A WSU researcher described results of two studies she conducted on cannabis consumption and memory, sharing that her hypothesis on the impacts of concentrates hadn’t been validated.
Two work groups presented draft recommendations to the full task force covering product scope and requirements, as well as definitions for ‘hemp extract’ and classification of cannabinoids.
A researcher suggested changes in availability and acceptance of high THC products contributed to increased use by adults and youth, and gave ideas for monitoring and reducing this trend.
Members got an extensive review of hemp in food policies in other states, learned five principles regulators wanted recommendations to prioritize, and debated scheduling their next meeting.