This bill amends RCW 69.51A.230 to enhance the functionality of the medical cannabis authorization database by allowing the liquor and cannabis board to verify excise tax exemptions. The new legal language specifies that the liquor and cannabis board can confirm these tax exemptions under RCW 69.50.535. Additionally, the bill outlines the responsibilities of the department to maintain a secure and confidential database that facilitates access for various stakeholders, including cannabis retailers, healthcare professionals, and law enforcement, while ensuring the protection of personally identifiable information.

The bill also establishes guidelines for the issuance and renewal of recognition cards for qualifying patients and their designated providers, detailing the requirements for the cards and the process for reexamination and renewal. It mandates that the database administrator consult with relevant stakeholders during the development of the database and sets forth privacy and security standards to protect the information contained within. Furthermore, it includes provisions for fees associated with the issuance of recognition cards and penalties for non-compliance by the database administrator.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 69.51A.230
Bill as Passed Legislature: 69.51A.230
Session Law: 69.51A.230