This bill legalizes home cultivation of cannabis for individuals aged 21 and older in Washington State, amending several sections of the Revised Code of Washington (RCW), including RCW 69.50.4013. It allows individuals to produce and possess up to six cannabis plants, provided they have liability insurance and adhere to specific conditions. The legislation introduces penalties for violations, including civil infractions for exceeding plant limits, and mandates bias training for law enforcement regarding the historical context of cannabis laws, effective July 1, 2026. Additionally, it expands cannabis producer licenses to include the sale of immature plants and seeds, emphasizes consumer education, and establishes a traceability system for cannabis products.

The bill also revises regulations surrounding cannabis retailer licenses, setting application and renewal fees, and limiting ownership interests to a maximum of five retail licenses. It outlines a process for license forfeiture if retailers are not operational within 24 months, with protections during the initial nine months. Furthermore, it updates laws related to property forfeiture by law enforcement, specifying procedures for claiming ownership and the distribution of proceeds from forfeited property. The bill mandates that seizing agencies remit a portion of net proceeds from forfeitures to a behavioral health program until June 30, 2027, and introduces a "social equity plan" requirement for cannabis licensees to promote social equity goals within their communities.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 69.50.4013, 69.50.401, 69.50.101
Substitute Bill: 69.50.4013, 69.50.325, 69.50.401, 69.50.101