State regulators in Washington are looking to have new cannabis stores licensed by the end of 2015 while they get ready to mix the medical and recreational markets. The state Liquor and Cannabis Board are expecting to accept cannabis-store applications beginning on October 12th for the first time since 2013. This announcement “marks the beginning of phase two,” according to Jane Rushford, chairwoman of the cannabis board. In addition, the board also stated that ceilings were going to be raised on how many crops licensed producers can grow. For instance, a farm currently able to grow 21,000 square feet will rise up to approximately 30,000 feet.
Those whose applications are accepted will be able to sell cannabis recreationally and medically; stores that already exist may apply for the same benefit. This year, a law was passed that would replace unregulated medicinal marijuana dispensaries and even shut them down by the summer-time. Switching to a new medical system will not happen anytime soon, but stores will be able to open. A huge concern, though, is that they will not be able to sell medicinal products until the Department of Health evaluates and deciphers medicinal marijuana from recreational marijuana. Something that’s different from the application process that went on in 2013 is that there will be neither a cap on the amount of applicants expected nor a deadline on applications.
What this all means is that the primary licenses will “to applicants who ran or worked at a medical-marijuana operation in 2012 or earlier and who have stayed current on taxes and business licenses.” Even higher priority will go to those who go to the first round applicants and meet the qualifications. Temporary rules were set on Wednesday by the board as they look into permanent rules to be set. As of right now, the cannabis board has licensed over 700 producers and 200 stores.
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