SENATE BILL REPORT

HB 2520

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.

As of February 23, 2016

Title: An act relating to the sale of marijuana to regulated cooperatives.

Brief Description: Concerning the sale of marijuana to regulated cooperatives.

Sponsors: Representative Wylie; by request of Liquor and Cannabis Board.

Brief History: Passed House: 2/17/16, 93-5.

Committee Activity: Commerce & Labor: 2/24/16.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON COMMERCE & LABOR

Staff: Richard Rodger (786-7461)

Background: Effective July 1, 2016, the Legislature authorized the creation of medical marijuana cooperatives. The cooperatives may have up to four patients and are authorized to grow medicinal marijuana for their own use. However, there are no statutory provisions that provide a legal pathway for cooperatives to acquire marijuana plants. Marijuana producers are not authorized to sell plants directly to marijuana cooperatives.

Summary of Bill: Licensed marijuana producers may grow marijuana plants for sale to medical marijuana cooperatives.

All marijuana plants grown by a medical marijuana cooperative must be purchased or cloned from a plant purchased from a licensed producer.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Available.

Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect on July 1, 2016.