Social Equity in Cannabis Events
In an effort to improve accountability and communication with the public, the LCB solicited feedback directly from members of communities of color regarding experiences and concerns about working within the existing cannabis system.
The LCB recognizes that when the regulatory structure of the current cannabis regulatory system was developed, mistakes were made. It's also important that the public has a clear understanding of the laws surrounding what the LCB is responsible for when it comes to cannabis industry.
A new state law (E2SHB 2870) created pathways for those disproportionately harmed by the war on drugs to potentially gain a license for retailing cannabis. Under the new law, a Social Equity Task Force, was created. The Social Equity Task Force will later inform the LCB of the criteria for issuing additional cannabis retail licenses to persons disproportionately harmed by the war on drugs.
In order to gain a broad perspective that represents the feelings and experiences about the current cannabis system held by those from communities of color, the LCB held three virtual meetings. During the meetings, particpants were encouraged to share their thoughts, and the LCB provided updates on the upcoming work of the Task Force. The LCB also provided clarification of the roles of the LCB, the Social Equity Task Force, and the Legislature and Governor when it comes to the Social Equity Task Force.
This provided citizens an opportunity to:
- Speak to the LCB about your experience trying to obtain a cannabis license.
- Learn about the Social Equity Task Force and new cannabis retail licenses.
Liquor and Cannabis Board (LCB) Member Ollie Garrett and members of the LCB’s executive leadership directly interacted with registered participants during the sessions. These community were facilitated by Dr. Caprice D. Hollins, Psy.D. of Cultures Connecting.
When and How
The LCB will host three separate virtual meetings, beginning in late September. Each meeting will cover the same information. It is only necessary to attend one session. Due to health and safety restrictions, these community events will be online only. Register for the meeting that you can attend by clicking the link below, entering the requested information and the password provided in the table.
| Session 1 | Tuesday, September 29, 2020 5:00 - 8:00 p.m. | Register for Session 1 |
| Session 2 | Monday, October 5, 2020 1:00 - 4:00 p.m. | Register for Session 2 |
| Session 3 | Monday, October 12, 2020 1:00 - 4:00 p.m. | Register for Session 3* |
*Please note: Session 3 will be a zoom session. If you previously registered via WebEx, please reregister using the updated zoom link.
You may log into the online event through your computer or mobile device. Each session will follow the same agenda, outlined here.
Social Equity Resources
Session 1 Slide Deck and Recording
Session 2 Slide Deck and Recording
Session 3 Slide Deck and Recording
Hillard - Heintze Independent Review Information
- January 9, 2020 Message to Regulated Communities and Stakeholders
- Hillard-Heintze Independent Review of Enforcement Operations and Management at WSLCB
Related Legislation
- E2SHB 2870: Allowing additional cannabis retail licenses for social equity purposes
- SB 5605: Misdemeanor cannabis Offense Convictions--Vacation
- SB 5318: cannabis Licensees--Compliance and Enforcement
Social Equity Program Contacts
- Marc Webster, Director of Legislative Relations, (360) 819-3487
- Send inquiries to Communications@lcb.wa.gov
- Governor's Interagency Council on Health Disparities: Social Equity in Cannabis Task Force
- TVW coverage of Oct. 26, 2020, kickoff meeting of the Social Equity in Cannabis Task Force
- Request Information/Join mailing list for Social Equity in Cannabis Task Force: healthequity@sboh.wa.gov
- Commissioner Paula Sardinas, Washington State Commission on African Affairs: paulasardinas@fmsglobalstrategies.com
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