Washington State Office of the Governor
(WA Governor)

The first cannabis bill of 2024 was signed into law before a dynamic conclusion to the session as the “high THC” legislation criss-crossed the rotunda for a last minute change which may have fiscal consequences.

All cannabis bills were funded in the operating budget; the patient excise tax exemption bill was passed; a bill action was scheduled by the Governor; and lawmakers would conclude the 2024 regular session.

Legislative and budget issues were top-of-mind for the board, but they also discussed an impending rulemaking project related to minors on the premises of producers and processors.

Committee members moved to approve three cannabis bills for a data dashboard, home growing, and regulation of high THC products.

The published calendar for the first week of the 2024 regular session appeared relatively light on cannabis-related activity, but schedules can change quickly and regulatory activity continued.

Agency leaders went over what they anticipated dealing with in 2024, including “high-THC” regulations, lab accreditation authority, medically endorsed stores, and social equity applicants.

WA HCA staff presented the newest strategic plan for substance use disorder prevention and mental health promotion, touching on the history, goals, and groups that created the plan.

The board voted to open rulemaking to implement social equity program changes and then heard public remarks related to the grant programs and transparency of the equity process.

Presenting a report on cannabis health and safety outcomes, staff detailed patterns and limitations in their data as board members asked about the findings and future WSIPP studies.

An update on retail social equity licensing preceded public comments that ranged from praise of the process to accusations of corruption and conflicts of interest.