AWC opposes the approach taken by the Liquor and Cannabis Board (LCB) in creating a social equity program.

HB 2870, sponsored by Rep. Eric Pettigrew (D–Seattle), and companion SB 6604, Sen. Karen Keiser (D–Kent), seek to provide new opportunities for minorities to enter the cannabis retail industry. The legislation allows cities to request additional cannabis retail licenses to be issued to qualifying individuals and groups who submit a social equity plan to their city council.

The legislation places the burden of requesting additional retail licenses to create social equity in the cannabis market on cities. This creates an administrative burden in addition to requiring cities to decide between additional retail licenses or supporting social equity. Additionally, the bill creates a grant program that places a financial burden on cities that pursue additional retail licenses.

AWC opposes the bill as drafted.

Dates to remember

HB 2870 is scheduled for a public hearing in the House Commerce & Gaming Committee at 1:30 pm on Monday, February 3. The bill is scheduled for a committee vote at 3:30 pm on Tuesday, February 4.