USA - Washington

A bill to exempt registered medical cannabis patients from paying the State excise tax on compliant products received a nod from members of both parties before passage.

Seven cannabis-related bills were already through the house of origin cutoff on Tuesday which would mark the halfway point of the 2021 Washington State legislative session.

Legislation to reshape the state’s social equity task force had two of three amendments adopted regarding “interested parties” and the effective date during its successful passage through the House.

During the first work group meeting, members introduced themselves; heard staff briefings on the group’s scope, responsibilities, and timeline; and solicited public comments.

A solid majority of representatives in the Washington State House voted to extend arrest protections to authorized medical cannabis patients and caregivers who choose not to register with the State.

Legislators prepared for a long week of virtual sessions to move bills out of their house of origin while the WSLCB convened the traceability 2.0 work group for the first time since October.

Senators amended legislation exempting registered medical cannabis patients and designated providers from the State excise tax, requiring a sunset date and a review of marketplace effects.

A bill expanding the State’s social equity in cannabis task force and grant program was recommended out of committee after two amendments to limit the legislation were rejected.

The Health Care and Wellness Committee voted to recommend legislation which would extend arrest protections to all medical cannabis patients, not just those registered with the State.

Legislative staff briefed on a bill to modify the cannabis social equity task force which drew a question on the need for an emergency clause, received some sign in support, but broached no public testimony.