The bill seeks to enhance access to medical cannabis in Washington State by amending various sections of the Revised Code of Washington (RCW) related to cannabis licensing and the medical cannabis authorization database. It introduces a medical cannabis endorsement for cannabis retailers and processors, enabling them to sell compliant products to qualifying patients and designated providers. The bill outlines specific requirements for these licensees, including prohibitions on authorizing medical use at their locations and mandates for employee training on valid authorizations and product details. Additionally, it establishes a secure medical cannabis authorization database to track patient authorizations, ensuring compliance with privacy standards while allowing healthcare professionals and cannabis businesses to verify patient information.

Moreover, the legislation addresses the confidentiality of patient information within the medical cannabis authorization database, exempting personally identifiable information from public disclosure while permitting the release of aggregate data for statistical purposes. It introduces a one-dollar fee for initial and renewal recognition cards issued by cannabis retailers, processors, or healthcare professionals, with funds directed to a dedicated cannabis account. The bill also establishes a medical cannabis consultant certificate, detailing the authority of the department to adopt rules and conduct background checks for certification applicants, while clarifying the services consultants may provide. Lastly, it allows qualifying patients and designated providers to purchase immature plants, cannabis seeds, and compliant cannabis products from licensed producers and processors.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 69.50.325, 69.50.335, 69.51A.230, 69.51A.290, 69.51A.310