The Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board (WSLCB) is the primary adult use cannabis regulatory authority in the State of Washington. The executive agency, which also regulates alcohol, tobacco, and vapor products in Washington state, is overseen by a three member board appointed by the Governor to six-year terms. The Board holds regular public meetings and work sessions with stakeholders, makes policy and budget decisions, and adjudicates contested license applications and enforcement actions on licensees. Board members are also responsible for hiring the agency's Director, who manages day-to-day operations.
Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board
(WSLCB)
Public
Observations
The Week Ahead
(December 16, 2024)
As activity wrapped for the holidays, WSLCB board members planned to complete social equity work but all other rulemaking activity would be trimmed or further delayed into 2025.
UW ADAI - Symposium - 2024 - Reviewing the Evidence
(September 19, 2024) - Lindsey Hines
An epidemiologist spoke to her research on THC concentrations and mental health outcomes among adolescents, including a longitudinal study from the UK, before taking questions.
WSLCB - Board Meeting
(December 4, 2024) - Summary
Proposed social equity program changes garnered a mix of support and criticism during their hearing, plus almost all public comments reflected doubt WSLCB would improve the situation.
The Week Ahead
(December 9, 2024)
Legislators planned to host work sessions in advance of the 2025 session which would occasion the final convening of the House Regulated Substances and Gaming Committee.
UW ADAI - Symposium - 2024 - Reviewing the Evidence
(September 19, 2024) - Daniel Myran
A researcher from the University of Ottawa in Canada discussed his country’s experience with legalization, including health studies he’d participated in, and addressed a couple of questions.
WSLCB - Board Caucus
(December 3, 2024) - Summary
The departure of the Policy and Rules Manager meant rule actions for 2024 would be led by an Acting Manager, including withdrawal of a project on Employee Stock Ownership Plans.
The Week Ahead
(December 2, 2024)
Officials and licensees alike moved to squeeze in policy-related meetings between the end of year holidays as pre-filing for the 2025-26 biennial state legislative session opened on Monday.
WSLCB - Board Caucus
(November 26, 2024) - Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome
(CHS)
A data brief on CHS prepared by staff analyzed patterns in cannabis use not previously studied, leading to questions about further investigation of the condition from the acting board chair.
The Week Ahead
(November 25, 2024)
A few events may get stuffed in ahead of November holidays, including an advocacy training by leading public health officials which was “not open to anyone from the Cannabis industry.”
UW ADAI - Symposium - 2024 - Reviewing the Evidence
(September 19, 2024) - Deepak Cyril D'Souza
A Yale University cannabis researcher who examined the interplay between cannabis and psychosis delved into his studies and findings before responding to attendee questions.