The bill amends Washington state laws regarding cannabis licensing, specifically RCW 69.50.325 and RCW 69.50.331, by introducing new provisions for the issuance of cannabis producer, processor, and retailer licenses. It establishes that the application fee for these licenses will encompass any additional fees required under RCW 69.50.331. A significant change is the requirement for a cannabis producer's license to be suspended if no activity has been recorded since July 1, 2021, with specified conditions for reissuance. The bill also grants the board authority to adopt rules concerning license forfeiture for retailers that are not operational within a designated timeframe, while emphasizing a thorough evaluation process for license applications, including inspections and background checks.

Additionally, the bill allows for the issuance of a certificate of compliance, enabling licensees to operate at proposed locations despite later disqualifying factors. It clarifies that licenses cannot be issued for premises within Indian country without tribal consent and empowers local governments to enact ordinances that may prohibit cannabis operations in primarily residential or rural areas. Notably, the bill removes residency requirements for applicants, permitting non-residents to qualify under certain conditions, and stresses the importance of local objections based on chronic illegal activity in the license approval process. The bill is set to take effect in stages, with some provisions starting on July 1, 2023, and others on January 1, 2024.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 69.50.325, 69.50.335, 69.50.331