WSLCB leaders reviewed progress on the cannabis reporting system, agency request legislation, and enforcement data showing increased pesticide complaints and fewer AVN hearings.
After two meeting cancellations, the Washington State Hemp in Food Task Force was scheduled to convene on Wednesday to receive “requested direction, guidance, and timelines.”
A new tribal compact was signed, several rulemaking projects were underway though one was withdrawn, and a hearing on social equity plus public comments elicited a range of opinions.
After largely encouraging public comments for three city ordinances on cannabis labor and equity policies, the council adopted all the measures and promised more action in the future.
Members heard about social equity, pesticide testing, and retail safety from WSLCB regulators before a follow up on a cannabis business safety task force by the King County Sheriff’s Office.
It could be a controversial week for cannabis policy in Washington state given debates around social equity rules and research concerns about “High THC Cannabis Products.”
Members prepared to approve the 21st tribal cannabis compact and heard the status of 2023 agency request legislation the same day WSLCB officers led raids on two cannabis markets.
After a critical briefing was postponed, task force members offered high-level updates from two work groups and reiterated a need to collect appropriate data to produce a timely report.
Opinions differed on an ordinance requiring a “cannabis needs assessment” on industry equity, but other measures on city equity licenses and worker retention were less controversial.
The Seattle City Council could amend and adopt three social equity and worker ordinances after WSLCB board members began reckoning with the covert actions of their Enforcement division.
