Washington State Department of Health
(DOH)

Two visions for the future of cannabinoid regulation were presented to senators, with testimony split between a measure developed by WACA members and WSLCB request legislation.

Some licensees, WSLCB staff, and prevention advocates encouraged lawmakers to pass request legislation on cannabinoid regulation, while other licensees preferred a competing bill.

Before the 2022 legislative session, WA SECTF recommendations may be formally endorsed and one prong of the WSLCB response to synthesized cannabinoids would likely be adopted.

Events were wrapping up for the holidays, but the transition to CCRS would keep the cannabis sector busier than usual checking lists twice before the shutdown of MJ Freeway on Saturday.

The chair of the cannabis science task force explained the work of the group, including its remaining report, and fielded a question about in-matrix proficiency tests.

University of Washington researchers spoke about recommending policies regarding high THC cannabis concentrates ahead of a legislatively mandated report on the subject.

2022 legislative session preparations continue as pre-filing of bills begins on Wednesday, interim actions were wrapped up, and required reports filed.

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.

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.