USA - Washington

Legislators would hear about a study into “whether current levels of cannabis production align with market demand and capacity” before a WSLCB work group discussed cannabis education.

After an update on social equity license applicants, board members heard encouragement, criticism, and questions about the program, among other comments, from the public.

The board was advised to amend an already active cannabis advertising bill rather than pursue a request bill on the topic in 2024 before hearing a short rulemaking update.

Following a march in Seattle, a legislative leader on cannabis shared how she became interested in sponsoring adult home growing legislation in Washington.

Willing avoidance of increased transparency and unexplained delays characterized important cannabis-related policymaking events in the week beginning on September 11th.

The board agreed to skip patient growing contracts but seek approval for other request bills on cannabis advertising and relating to enforcement against alcohol sales to minors.

After honoring the Labor Day holiday, WSLCB staff were scheduled to present plans for agency request legislation to board members during their weekly caucus.

Aside from a short rulemaking update, most of the meeting focused on the new agency research team, including outputs and external collaborations they had begun to develop.

During the final webinar on 2024 draft request bills, WSLCB staff acknowledged one idea was likely to be shelved due to lack of support, but another would probably be moved forward.

The WSLCB board and staff would convene again this week, but the next formal cannabis rulemaking action by members was not expected until October 25th.