Observations

Several cannabis rulemaking projects would be advanced during the week, including reform of criminal history background checks and authority over synthesized cannabinoids.

WSLCB leadership learned about the process and timeline for agency request legislation, and the Chair called for a public presentation of the legislative agenda before the 2022 session.

Details of a board member’s discussion with state counsel on synthesized delta-9-THC led to conversation about the policy statements and agency regulatory powers beyond rulemaking.

The WSLCB Board would learn more about the subject of synthesized delta-9-THC the day before the social equity task force work group on licensing discusses the “State of the Industry.”

The board heard from concerned cannabis stakeholders about legal, health, and economic risks of failing to enforce a prohibition on the use of synthesized cannabinoids in I-502.

Members asked about the potential to include consideration of synthesized delta-9-THC in open rulemaking and had a lengthy discussion on the tone of official statements on the matter.

Board members entertained a possible public relations effort around delta-8-THC before they learned what other states had done or were attempting to do to control use of the compound.

Amidst long solstice days after a week of high temperatures, important decisions about the future of the Washington state cannabis industry were under way - and more heat was expected.

A board member called a special caucus to air confusion about investigating a licensed processor turning CBD into delta-9-THC, kicking off a debate about the law and potential board action.

After a presentation on prospective Department of Commerce grant and mentorship programs for equity applicants, work group members and the public delved into potential details.