Zips Cannabis

Supporters welcomed expanded signage allowances and clarifications offered in a cannabis advertising bill, but opponents viewed changes as increasing youth perception of normalization.

WACA members had a myriad of questions for former WSLCB Board Chair David Postman as he assumed a new post as Chief of Staff for the incoming Attorney General.

Staff presented two petitions, one on banning single use vapor products and another on employee stock ownership, opened rulemaking on cannabis waste, and heard public comments.

Staff received more input on how draft agency request bills on contract growing for patients and advertising changes might potentially impact patients, businesses, and the cannabis market.

WSLCB leaders introduced two concepts for 2024 request legislation, one for medical patients to contract with licensees; another to revise limits around cannabis retail advertising.

Leaders touched on several bills concerning cannabinoid regulation and “inactive” producer licenses in addition to a favorable court ruling and social equity program updates.

Several cannabis retailers told lawmakers licensed businesses were diverting products to illegal cannabis markets while calling for enforcement, licensing, and reporting changes.

The WSDA Legislative Liaison reviewed department work impacting hemp and cannabis rules before taking questions about staffing and issues expected in the 2023 legislative session.

Committee members heard positive testimony on a bill to increase penalties for cannabis retail robberies, and asked questions about the frequency of incidents and other solutions.

With increasing incidents of cannabis retail robbery, legislation adding reporting requirements and sentencing enhancements was seen as helpful, but some argued it sidestepped bigger issues.