OLYMPIA – Several new alcohol and marijuana related laws became effective recently. Among the new laws is a section of Senate Bill 5052, the Cannabis Patient Protection Act, which changes the name of the former Liquor Control Board.

The new name is the Liquor and Cannabis Board which reflects the regulatory responsibilities the agency has had since 2012. The name change is the first for the agency since it was established by the Steele Act on January 23, 1934.

“Having just passed the first anniversary of marijuana sales the timing of the change could not have come at a better time” said Director Rick Garza. “I think it’s only fitting that the agency’s name has been changed to reflect our new regulatory responsibility regarding the cannabis industry.”

In addition to the name change, many other bills were passed that impact the business of marijuana, alcohol and tobacco in Washington.

Selected highlights of 2015 legislation that impact WSLCB:

• HB 2136 – This law makes comprehensive marijuana market reforms to ensure a well-regulated and taxed marijuana market in Washington State.

• SSB 5052 – This law establishes regulations for the formerly unregulated medical marijuana system and aligns it with the existing recreational system.

• SB 5121 – This law authorizes the WSLCB to offer licenses for research into marijuana. All research projects must be approved by the Life Sciences Discovery Fund Authority.

• HB 2000 – This law authorizes the Governor to enter into agreements with federally recognized Indian tribes in the state of Washington concerning marijuana.

• SB 5292 – This law bans the purchase, sale and possession of powdered alcohol.

• SSB 5280 – This law allows grocery store licensees to fill/sell growlers of cider.

Legislative summaries for each bill that impacts the WSLCB can be found on the WSLCB website.