Black Excellence in Cannabis
(BEC)

Diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts at WSLCB were discussed along with the budding social equity program, related community engagement efforts, and request legislation for 2023.

Just as social equity rulemaking at WSLCB was concluded, a report alleging abusive behavior by a former task force leader reinvigorated lingering public skepticism over agency progress.

A new tribal compact was signed, several rulemaking projects were underway though one was withdrawn, and a hearing on social equity plus public comments elicited a range of opinions.

After largely encouraging public comments for three city ordinances on cannabis labor and equity policies, the council adopted all the measures and promised more action in the future.

Opinions differed on an ordinance requiring a “cannabis needs assessment” on industry equity, but other measures on city equity licenses and worker retention were less controversial.

After opening two rulemaking projects and accepting four of five petitions for cannabis rulemaking, board members then heard complaints and compliments in public comment.

The committee reviewed background and amendments on multiple cannabis bills targeting worker retention and training; creation of a city social equity license; and a “Cannabis Needs Assessment.”

After asking several searching questions, the board approved filing proposed social equity rules then heard positive public comments as well as a few claiming obfuscation by board members.

The committee heard about a trio of ordinances being drafted by the Seattle Mayor’s office as “first steps” towards changing ownership and worker equity in the city’s cannabis sector.

The board rejected a petition to make curbside and walk-up cannabis sales permanent, rescinded another interim policy, and heard public remarks - some apparently “not necessarily helpful.”