Observations

The head of the Office of Health Professions talked about the medical cannabis program, addressed a study of patient tax exemptions, and discussed patient trends.

While many meetings were cancelled or not scheduled for the holiday week, a new working group at WSDA would consider revisions to the penalty matrix for pesticide violations.

Staff reviewed the imminent transition from the existing cannabis traceability provider to a WSLCB reporting system scheduled for December 6th - despite expressed concerns.

Senators learning about delta-8-THC and other novel cannabinoids found the lack of control around youth access “very alarming” as they questioned WSLCB and CANNRA leaders.

The lobbyist for WSLCB gave an update on staff engagement with lawmakers and progress on two draft bills with associated budget requests being prepared for the governor’s office.

Mere weeks away from pre-filing, legislators and agency staff prepared draft bills including the WSLCB “impairing” cannabinoids legislation of interest and consequence to many.

Staff reviewed stalled rulemaking for a certified cannabis program in Washington before turning to two California programs: an organic-comparable certification and appellations of origin.

Director Rick Garza shared some observations with attendees, focusing on vertical integration, cannabinoid regulation, medical cannabis, and social equity before taking questions.

While social equity work groups continued to review the regulated cannabis market, the body historically responsible for introducing the state controlled substances act was set to convene.

Cannabis regulators from multiple states---including the leadership of CANNRA---discussed public health concerns and ways to regulate delta-8-THC and other novel cannabinoids.