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 inserted into the current law includes provisions for the liquor and cannabis board to confirm these tax exemptions under RCW 69.50.535. Additionally, the bill outlines the responsibilities of the department to create and maintain a secure database that facilitates access for various stakeholders, including cannabis retailers, healthcare professionals, and law enforcement, while ensuring the confidentiality 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 emphasizes the importance of privacy and security in handling sensitive information, mandates the retention of database records for verification purposes, and sets forth penalties for non-compliance by the database administrator. Overall, the legislation aims to streamline the verification process for tax exemptions while maintaining the integrity and confidentiality of medical cannabis patient information.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 69.51A.230