Those who have been running businesses in the cannabis industry for years, as well as those that are working hard to become licensed, know it is not a simple task to stay in compliance with state and local regulations. The complexity of such regulations can cause businesses to inadvertently make mistakes, which can lead to…
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The Future of Cannabis in Washington and Oregon
OregonRecreational MarijuanaUncategorized February 7, 2019
In late January, Portland hosted the Cannabis Collaborative Conference (“CCC” or “Conference”), an annual forum created by cannabis industry leaders, aimed at addressing the most pressing issues facing this emerging market. This year’s conference focused on the future of the cannabis industry. Rick Garza, Director of the Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board (“WLCB”), was one…
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Washington Cannabis: The Proposed Hemp Overhaul is Here
HempUncategorized February 7, 2019
In light of the recent federal legalization of industrial hemp, Washington lawmakers are taking a hard look at the state’s hemp program. Senators Bob Hasegawa (D) of Beacon Hill, Steve Conway (D) of Tacoma, and Karen Keiser (D) of Kent recently introducing Senate Bill 5719. The stated purpose of SB 5719 is as follows: Authorize the…
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In December 2018, Congress passed the Agricultural Improvement Act of 2018 (better known as the “Farm Bill”). Among other things, the passage of the bill removed industrial hemp from the federal Controlled Substances Act, allowing legal production of the crop. Despite this landmark legislation, pitfalls still lay on the path ahead. The legality of many…
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FREE Webinar Jan. 29: Washington Employment Law for Cannabis Businesses
Uncategorized January 10, 2019
Owning a cannabis business can feel like you’re drowning in various regulation compliances and not actually spending time with your business. The excess of rules and regulations levied by the Washington Liquor and Cannabis Board (WSLCB), cannabis-specific regulations, along with an array of state and federal employment laws and regulations can keep any business from…
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BREAKING NEWS: Washington Governor Announces Marijuana Conviction Pardon Program
Uncategorized January 5, 2019
Today I’m attending the Washington State Cannabis Summit. This is the 5th Annual summit, but this year is particularly special due to a major announcement by Governor Jay Inslee. During the morning session, Gov. Inslee unveiled the Marijuana Justice Initiative. The Initiative will allow individuals to submit an online petition to Gov. Inslee requesting a pardon…
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Washington Marijuana Business Owner-Finance: Some Regulatory Improvement
Uncategorized December 25, 2018
After years of us banging the drum for the WSLCB to change its financier approval process, there is a glimmer of hope out there that the agency is willing to listen to reason. The WSLCB has issued a new interim policy, BIP-06-2018, that allows existing true parties of interest and financiers to get clearance for…
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Washington Regulators Ban Certain Colors and Shapes on Marijuana Packaging
Uncategorized December 23, 2018
In a move straight out of the 1984 classic “Repo Man,” Washington regulators are making marijuana edibles really, really boring. Earlier this year, we wrote about the Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board’s (WSLCB) decision to effectively ban marijuana-infused candy. The industry pushed back and the WSLCB reevaluated its stance. December 12, the WSLCB issued a…
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Washington Marijuana Beverages Can’t Be Too Enticing for Children… or Adults?
Recreational MarijuanaUncategorized December 19, 2018
The Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board (WSLCB) is creating a real niche in the beverage product design industry through some of its most recent policy pronouncements. As has always been the case, edible (and drinkable) marijuana products are regulated so that they are not appealing to children. There are a host of old and…
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Washington State Regulates CBD Additives as Used in Marijuana Products
HempRecreational MarijuanaUncategorized November 10, 2018
Earlier this year, the Washington Legislature passed House Bill 2334 (the “Bill”) into law. The Bill allows licensed marijuana producers and processors to use cannabidiol (CBD) from a source not licensed by the Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board (LCB). The Bill defines a “CBD product” as “any product containing or consisting of cannabidiol” and would permit…
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