The Hollingsworth Cannabis Company
(THC)

Legislation expanding the membership and responsibilities of the social equity task force was signed into law, strengthening an influential movement in the Washington state cannabis sector.

Following passage by the House, legislation to modify and expand the State social equity in cannabis task force and program was heard by senators for the first time.

During the first work group meeting, members introduced themselves; heard staff briefings on the group’s scope, responsibilities, and timeline; and solicited public comments.

Task force members recommended expanding the qualifying criteria for the social equity program to include race and opening the technical assistance grant program to current licensees and retail title certificate holders.

A diverse majority publicly testified against legislation to establish a Washington state cannabis commodity commission, although more individuals signed in support.

An extensive briefing by WSLCB staff on past cannabis business licensing windows provoked a lively Q&A on the prospective social equity program application process.

Though not unanimous, the task force voted to focus on anti-Black racism in their operating principles before broadly discussing the equity program and establishing three work groups.

Board members discussed the announcement of Chair Jane Rushford’s retirement, considered feedback on social equity, and heard updates in preparation for rulemaking on Wednesday.

Task force members received a data briefing to assist in elaboration of qualifying criteria for cannabis social equity applicants residing in “disproportionately impacted areas.”

Review of the task force’s scope and responsibilities, draft bylaws, and operating principles elicited member perspectives on the kinds of systemic racism they would attempt to address within the state’s legal cannabis market.