The bill aims to extend and evaluate the cannabis social equity program in Washington State, with a focus on improving its implementation and efficiency. It mandates the liquor and cannabis board, in consultation with the department of commerce, to conduct a comprehensive evaluation of the program by December 1, 2025. This evaluation will include public feedback and an analysis of the initial licensing and grant awards, as well as identifying barriers to the success of cannabis businesses under the program. The bill also extends the program's duration until July 1, 2034, and removes restrictions on grant issuance to qualifying cannabis licensees.

Additionally, the bill amends existing laws to facilitate the issuance of cannabis licenses, particularly for social equity applicants. It allows for the issuance of up to 100 cannabis processor licenses and up to 10 cannabis producer licenses starting January 1, 2025, while also permitting the board to increase the number of licenses based on census data. The bill establishes a cannabis social equity technical assistance grant program to support social equity applicants and licensees, providing funding for various technical assistance activities. The act is declared an emergency measure, taking effect immediately to ensure the timely support of the cannabis social equity program.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 69.50.335
Substitute Bill: 69.50.335
Engrossed Substitute: 69.50.335, 43.330.540