A bill removing the Liquor and Cannabis Board’s (LCB) statutory authority to regulate the size of licensed cannabis retailer signs could soon place the authority with local jurisdictions instead. SB 5363, sponsored by Sen. Drew MacEwen (R–Union), is scheduled for a hearing and vote in the House Regulated Substances & Gaming Committee this week.

Currently, LCB has strict limitations on the type and size of signage that a cannabis retailer may display outside of their business. This bill would remove LCB’s regulations on signage and put state law in line with a 2019 King County Superior Court decision that held that LCB’s strict signage rules violated the First Amendment. Local governments would be allowed to adopt their own rules of outdoor advertising by cannabis retailers. Cities that are considering new ordinances in response to this potential new law should consult with legal counsel. If the bill is enacted, cities may want to adopt an updated sign ordinance prior to the bill’s effective date in July. We will continue to keep cities updated as this bill moves through the legislative process.

Dates to remember

SB 5363 is scheduled for public hearing in the House Regulated Substances & Gaming Committee on Tuesday, March 21 at 4 pm, and for a vote in the same committee on Thursday, March 23 at 8 am.