USA - Washington

Comments on a bill to ban pre-employment cannabis testing for many businesses got supportive testimony from the cannabis sector, labor interests, and police, with some business voices dissenting.

Several task force members helped develop the scope of a third-party contract to review scientific literature and contemplated a legislative strategy for pursuit in 2023.

Although only five cannabis-specific bills were pre-filed, the convening of the Washington State Legislature portended significant changes to the policy landscape and operating environment.

Several cannabis retailers told lawmakers licensed businesses were diverting products to illegal cannabis markets while calling for enforcement, licensing, and reporting changes.

The longtime Director of WSLCB planned to step down, CCRS 2.0 was on track to go live, and public comments touched on equity, traceability, transparency, and the cannabis economy.

Informed by a small survey of stakeholders, a researcher producing a legislative report recommended officials reduce the availability and use of high-concentration cannabis products.

Staff provided updates on active and upcoming rulemaking projects before sharing details ahead of the inaugural meeting of the Quality Control Standards Work Group on Thursday January 5th.

The WSDA Legislative Liaison reviewed department work impacting hemp and cannabis rules before taking questions about staffing and issues expected in the 2023 legislative session.

The Washington State Legislature was scheduled to convene in one week, and pre-session jitters were amplified by a questionable CCRS update coming in for a landing on the same day.

WSLCB Board Member Jim Vollendroff spoke candidly about his history, his goals as a cannabis regulator, and his commitment to helping licensees achieve success.