Observations

WSLCB board members would discuss prospective challenges to cannabis social equity programs with a subject matter expert and traffic safety commissioners planned to convene.

The head of the WSDA hemp program presented the basics of hemp harvest reporting, inspections, and remediation before introducing an interim Program Manager.

A new timeline for social equity rules was hypothesized by staff who looked ahead to a plant canopy rule project while responding to an “unprecedented” influx of rulemaking petitions.

Panelists with experience in drug prevention and behavioral science couldn’t reach consensus on the question of what makes cannabinoids impairing during a final dialogue on the topic.

A busy summer week would feature deliberations of a social equity work group, a WSDA hemp program webinar, WSLCB leadership updates, and the WA Impaired Driving Advisory Council (WIDAC).

Members approved a rule change normalizing use of the word ‘cannabis’ and heard criticism of the hold on the social equity rulemaking project leading to a lengthy explanation for the pause.

A “pause” on canopy enforcement was reviewed as well as rulemaking projects and upcoming rulemaking petitions before closing with a call for optimism about federal banking reform.

The task force elected a new co-chair, learned the status of a technical assistance and mentorship program, and heard allegations about “anti-union” activity of a retailer.

As the state recognized the 4th of July holiday during turbulent times, regulators may take steps to renew progress towards the minimum social equity program imagined for the cannabis sector.

At four tables with small groups of lawmakers, WACA members and meeting attendees honed arguments in support of lower taxes, more advertising, vertical integration, and out of state ownership.