Understanding Marijuana Laws in Washington State
Initiative 502 brought significant changes to marijuana laws in Washington State in 2012, allowing possession in limited amounts for individuals over 21. However, it remains illegal at the federal level, leading to tensions between federal and state regulations. The Washington State Liquor Control Board regulates licensing for marijuana production and sales. The rules restrict where marijuana retailers can operate and impose fees for licensing. It is illegal to grow marijuana at home under these regulations.
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Initiative 502: Marijuana Laws in Washington
History of Initiative 502 Summer 2011: Submitted to WA Sec. of State w/ 341,000 signatures. April 2012: WA Legislature adjourned w/ no action. November 2012: Advanced to General Ballot. November 6, 2012: I-502 approved by popular vote (approx. 56% YES 44% NO).
Whats Still Illegal? Federal Law WA State Law Possession? ILLEGAL Marijuana is still a Schedule I controlled substance under federal law and subject to prosecution. ILLEGAL if you re under 21 years old! LEGAL in certain amounts if 21 or older! Amount? ILLEGAL Possession of any amount of marijuana may still be subject to prosecution. LEGAL to carry up to one ounce of marijuana for personal use. DUI s? ILLEGAL Can t use marijuana so can t drive under the influence of it. SIMILAR TO ALCOHOL DUI S I-502 sets a limit of 5 ng/mL of THC level for driving under influence of marijuana.
Answers from the SPD Can you smoke pot outside of your home? Like at a park or the Bite of Seattle? It is a civil infraction Will SPD assist federal law enforcement in investigations of marijuana users or marijuana- related businesses, that are allowed under I-502? No. Officers and detectives will not participate in an investigation of anything that s not prohibited by state law.
Answers from the SPD I m under 21. What happens if I get caught smoking pot? It s a violation of state law. It may referred to prosecutors, just like if you were a minor in possession of alcohol. SPD seized a bunch of my marijuana before I-502 passed. Can I have it back? No.
From the WSLCB WSLCB = Washington State Liquor Control Board -In December 1, 2013 Washington State Liquor Control Board (WSLCB) wrote the rules and implementation details, of the new system. -The rules basically regulate who can produce, process and sell marijuana (NOTE: the rules do not allow a producer/processer to also be a seller) -In order to sell, process or produce marijuana, a person/business must get a license from the state
Some Rules from the WSLCB I-502 establishes a license application fee at $250 and a $1,000 renewal fee for each of the three licenses; marijuana producer, marijuana processor and marijuana retailer. Recreational use marijuana must be purchased from a state-licensed retailer ILLEGAL to grow at home Marijuana retailers cannot open stores within 1000 feet of an elementary or secondary school, park, childcare facility, library, public transit center or game arcade
