Observations

Discussion of “problematic” budget provisos and a review of what happened with HB 2870 engaged the Board while concerns about COVID-19 began to spread.

The legislature is getting more creative in its handling of cannabis-related bills and budget provisos as the close of the regular session approaches on March 12th.

SB 6057 (the “wholesale discounts” bill) and SB 6206 (the “location compliance” bill) were both heard in the House on Monday - but only one was subsequently advanced.

SB 6206 was advanced during the WA House COG’s Tuesday February 25th committee meeting.

Although the bill was scheduled for executive session during the WA House COG Tuesday committee meeting, SB 6057 was not moved.

The Board reviewed open agency rulemaking projects and learned new information about WSDA’s prospective organic-equivalent Certified Cannabis program.

Senators heard and moved both WSLCB agency request bills, HB 2826 on marijuana vapor products and HB 2870 on social equity in the cannabis industry.

LBRC hosted a second committee meeting on Tuesday afternoon during which members considered amendments to, and passage of, HB 2870.

The City hosted a town hall format event to gather feedback from communities impacted by the war on drugs while providing details on municipal and state equity efforts including HB 2870.

7 cannabis-related bills remained in motion as the Washington State House and Senate began considering opposite chamber bills prior to Friday’s policy committee cutoff.