Washington State Bill Seeks to Allow Public Cannabis Use in ‘Regulated Environments’

A bill proposed in Washington state would allow public use of cannabis in regulated environments, NBC Right Now reports. The legislation would allow licensed organizers to host up to one event per month, each lasting a maximum of three days at locations approved by the Washington Liquor and Cannabis Board (LCB) which would regulate the events under strict guidelines.   

The proposal would also create a budtender permit for employees working at these events. The permit would cover training for responsible selling, avoiding over-serving, and best practices for dealing with impaired customers.

During a hearing in the House Committee on Consumer Protection and Business, James McMahan, policy director with the Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs, said his organization is concerned that, if approved, the law “would be the first in yet another slew of bills that further expand the opportunities for those to drive intoxicated.”

State Rep. Brandy Donaghy (D), a co-sponsor on the legislation, responded that the same argument could be made “about anywhere that sells alcohol.” 

“You’re being trusted to be an adult, take responsibility and get home safely in a way that also doesn’t put others at risk.” — Donaghy via NBC Right Now 

The bill is currently in the Committee on Consumer Protection and Business.