The bill amends various sections of the Revised Code of Washington (RCW) to enhance the clarity and regulation of cannabis products and promote social equity within the cannabis industry. Key insertions include new definitions for "cannabis edibles in liquid form," "cannabis edibles in solid form," "cannabis flower," "cannabis topical," "cannabis trim," and "preroll," which provide specificity regarding cannabis-infused products. The bill also updates the THC concentration limits for cannabis concentrates and cannabis-infused products to a maximum of 10 percent. Additionally, it introduces a definition for "social equity plan," requiring cannabis licensees to outline their efforts to promote social equity goals, including workforce composition and partnerships with organizations serving populations historically affected by cannabis prohibition.

Furthermore, the bill revises the age limit for "youth access" to vapor products to 21 years and establishes a tiered cannabis excise tax system based on product weight and type, replacing the previous flat rate. It maintains annual renewal requirements for cannabis producer, processor, and retailer licenses, clarifying that possession and sale by licensed entities will not be criminalized under state law. The bill also sets conditions for the forfeiture of cannabis retailer licenses if businesses are not operational within a specified timeframe, while allowing for extensions. Certain sections of the bill will expire on June 30, 2027, with others taking effect on that date.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 69.50.101, 69.50.535, 69.50.325