On March 23, 2020, Washington State Governor Jay Inslee issued a “Stay Home, Stay Healthy” order, which requires everyone in the state to stay at home for at least the next two weeks. The order requires the following:
- Every Washingtonian must stay home unless they need to pursue an essential activity.
- All gatherings for social, spiritual and recreational purposes are banned.
- All businesses except essential businesses must close.
Marijuana businesses are included in the Governor’s list of essential businesses. The “essential workforce” includes “Workers supporting cannabis retail…” as well as “cannabis retailers”.
The next thing to look for is whether the Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board (the “LCB”) will enact emergency rules regarding further social distancing and/or curbside deliveries. The LCB is currently allowing curbside delivery to medical marijuana patients. It seems appropriate to now start allowing curbside delivery for all customers as well as drive through windows in locations that can provide sufficient security and drive through lanes.
These are no doubt difficult times for everyone. It is good to know, however, that Washington State now considers licensed marijuana businesses to be an essential part of the health and economic welfare of the state. Stay tuned to this blog for more LCB rule updates regarding COVID-19.
For more information on the regulation of hemp and marijuana businesses in Washington State, please contact Heather Wolf.