Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research | BILL ANALYSIS |
Government Accountability & Oversight Committee |
HB 1808
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent. |
Brief Description: Addressing the proper disposal of legal amounts of marijuana inadvertently left at retail stores holding a pharmacy license.
Sponsors: Representatives Nealey and Hurst.
Brief Summary of Bill |
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Hearing Date: 2/12/13
Staff: Thamas Osborn (786-7129).
Background:
The Uniform Controlled Substances Act (Act) provides the regulatory framework regarding the manufacture, distribution, and dispensing of specified controlled substances in this state. The State Board of Pharmacy is authorized to enforce the Act and, pursuant to this authority, may add, delete or recategorize the controlled substances falling within its scope. The act provides a legal definition of "marijuana" and lists it as a "Schedule I" controlled substance.
Initiative 502 (I-502) was a ballot measure approved by Washington voters in November of 2012. The passage of the initiative legalized the recreational use of marijuana and created a comprehensive regulatory scheme that includes provisions regarding the following:
legalizing the possession of up to one ounce of marijuana and related products for personal use;
licensing and regulating marijuana production and distribution;
implementation of excise taxes on marijuana production, distribution, and sales;
creation of a dedicated marijuana fund for the collection and distribution of marijuana-related tax revenues;
deletion of statutory provisions containing criminal and/or civil penalties for activities authorized by I-502; and
revision of drunk driving laws to include specific provisions pertaining to driving under the influence of marijuana.
Summary of Bill:
If a manager or employee of a retail store holding a pharmacy license finds one ounce or less of marijuana inadvertently left within the premises of the business, he or she must promptly notify either the local law enforcement agency or the Washington State Patrol. Following such law enforcement notification, the store manager or employee must properly dispose of the marijuana.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Not requested.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.