Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board
(WSLCB)

A busy week inclusive of hearings on a local ban, medical cannabis taxation, social equity, and product testing would culminate in a legislative work session setting the stage for 2022.

CFO Jim Morgan told agency leadership CCRS remained on track and testing revealed no significant bugs; meanwhile, an informal integrator group formed to facilitate data exchange.

The board moved ahead on a “stopgap measure" to regulate cannabinoids, received an update on rulemaking for quality control testing, and heard concerns about draft request legislation.

WSLCB Board Chair David Postman provided an opening keynote speech reflecting on his work and the status of the agency before answering questions of concern to conference attendees.

The task force adopted work group recommendations to significantly increase spending on grants, establish loans for equity applicants, and open grants to qualified existing licensees.

One window closes before another opens: stakeholder feedback on “psychotropic compounds” agency request legislation was due to WSLCB staff prior to publication of proposed THC rules.

Legislative, regulatory, and lobbying leaders talked about preparing the Washington state cannabis sector for national legalization and interstate trade.

WSLCB staff planned to host a third webinar on the Cannabis Central Reporting System (CCRS) to help expedite the transition away from MJ Freeway - and reallocate funding?

A staff briefing on potential effects of a draft discussion bill to legalize cannabis federally prompted questions on engagement with the Washington state congressional delegation.

Director of Policy and External Affairs Justin Nordhorn discussed the background, intent, and changes requested in draft legislation on “psychotropic” and “impairing” cannabis compounds.