Washington CannaBusiness Association
(WACA)

In their final meeting of 2021, board members discussed a recent ride-along, a legislative proposal to overhaul the board from a cannabis trade association, and “collateral enforcement.”

Three senators offered their thoughts around cannabis policy and answered specific questions about potential bill subjects as well as the format of the 2022 legislative session.

A cannabis researcher from WSU went over academic developments around safety, economic development, health, and agriculture before answering attendee questions.

Staff reviewed the imminent transition from the existing cannabis traceability provider to a WSLCB reporting system scheduled for December 6th - despite expressed concerns.

Director Rick Garza shared some observations with attendees, focusing on vertical integration, cannabinoid regulation, medical cannabis, and social equity before taking questions.

Cannabis trade associations shared their legislative priorities around out-of-state ownership, social equity, medical cannabis, and synthesized cannabinoids.

Prevention and social equity advocates would convene online, while a cannabis trade association would host state legislators, regulators, and researchers for in person discussion.

Director of Legislative Relations Chris Thompson went over the status of two potential agency request bills (lab standards, cannabinoid regulation) and an upcoming briefing to lawmakers.

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

Industry, academic, and agency representatives brought lawmakers up to speed on CBD product research and policy development in Washington state.