Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research | BILL ANALYSIS |
Commerce & Gaming Committee |
SSB 5398
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: Concerning marijuana, useable marijuana, and marijuana-infused products in public.
Sponsors: Senate Committee on Commerce & Labor (originally sponsored by Senators Rivers and Hasegawa; by request of Liquor Control Board).
Brief Summary of Substitute Bill |
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Hearing Date: 3/23/15
Staff: David Rubenstein (786-7153).
Background:
It is unlawful to consume or open a package containing marijuana or marijuana products in view of the general public. A violation is a class 3 civil infraction, punishable by a fine of $50 plus applicable local fines.
Liquor control statutes prohibit the consumption of alcohol in a public place. Public place is defined to include numerous specific premises but also includes any place to which the general public has unrestricted right of access and which is generally used by the public. State parks and parks on brewery and winery grounds are specifically excluded from the definition.
Summary of Bill:
Consuming or opening a package containing marijuana or marijuana products in view of the general public or in a public place is prohibited. Public place has the same definition as in liquor control statutes, except that consuming or opening a package of marijuana or marijuana products is not permitted in state parks or on brewery or winery grounds.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.