Observations

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.

Two OLCC regulators briefed Washington legislators on the Oregon approach to cannabinoid regulation before answering questions on market limits and “pushback” elicited.

In addition to a WSLCB board meeting, a WSU researcher would present their findings on “High-Potency Cannabis” and WSDA staff planned next steps on the hemp program.

A comprehensive Enforcement and Education briefing delved into that division’s work in 2022 before staff updated on federal banking legislation and media engagements at the agency.

With continued advocacy from Washington CannaBusiness Association members, the council approved a motion to create a cannabis business security task force in King County.

The committee heard about a motion to create a cannabis security task force to address robberies in the area, amending wording and scope before recommending it to the full council.

The King County Council would decide whether or not to create a “cannabis business security task force” to convene in the months leading up to the county biennial budget season.

As staff prepared to open rulemaking on cannabinoid regulations, they also announced a delay on social equity rules and shared the status of several open or near future efforts.

The committee heard about social equity programs in three California cities and a Colorado county before asking panelists how a potential Seattle program might improve equity outcomes.