USA - Washington

Committee members learned the status of the WSLCB equity retail program and asked a few questions as they sought to develop a dedicated social equity program for Seattle.

The locus of cannabis policymaking in Washington state would temporarily shift to Walla Walla as an influential trade association convened legislators and regulators to confer and commingle.

Board members adopted revisions to pesticide action level rules, planned to begin “hybrid” in-person and virtual events the following week, and heard public comments on retail licensing.

An outline of the education approach of the Enforcement and Education division was provided to the board, in addition to rulemaking updates and information on upcoming agency events.

A mild summer week for WSLCB policymaking could hold some surprises if new rulemaking projects for packaging and labeling (PAL) and cannabis advertising were initiated.

Convened experts had no definitive answer for distinguishing impairing THCs or other cannabinoids, but agreed research was needed to create a legally defensible standard.

The 2021 Healthy Youth Survey of Washington school students showed mostly positive signs around cannabis, but a three year gap disrupted comparison of trends with past results.

WSLCB board members would hear about the Healthy Youth Survey from public health officials while Policy and Rules staff hosted a deliberative dialogue on cannabis impairment.

The board looked at extending one temporary allowance for cannabis through September; heard new cannabis retail safety and banking information; and got an update on rulemaking.

Lawmakers learned about cannabinoid synthesis and potential health risks before hearing an overview on relevant cannabis policy from WSDA and WSLCB representatives.