The Struggle for Inclusivity in Washington’s Cannabis Industry
Washington state is striving to make its cannabis licensing program more inclusive for Black and brown business owners. Data shows that 92% of the state’s cannabis industry is white, with only 4% of retail cannabis licenses granted to Black applicants. This alarming disparity has prompted a push for change in the state House.
Challenges Faced by Minority Business Owners
Black-owned medical cannabis dispensaries, like those owned by Mike Asai and Peter Manning, faced considerable difficulties when recreational cannabis became legal in 2015. Forced to close and reapply for new retail licenses, many found their applications rejected for various reasons. The lack of equity in the industry was evident, and the fight for change began.
Acknowledging the Missed Opportunity
When the Washington Liquor and Cannabis Board (LCB) was confronted with these concerns, board member Ollie Garrett admitted the state’s rollout of its cannabis program was a “failure” and a “missed opportunity.” State Senator Rebecca Saldaña had been discussing this failure and advocating for change behind the scenes.
Proposed Legislation for More Licenses
Senator Saldaña is sponsoring legislation that would add around 100 retail licenses specifically for social equity applicants. These licenses would be mobile, meaning they could be used in any city or county that allows cannabis sales. This would provide flexibility to new business owners as they seek suitable locations for their dispensaries.
Concerns of Market Oversaturation
Some argue that the addition of so many new licenses could disrupt the existing market. However, proponents of the legislation see it as a necessary step to create a pathway to opportunity for those who have been historically excluded from the industry.
Prioritizing Licenses for Those Impacted by the War on Drugs
The LCB has made changes to its social equity program, giving priority to applicants with prior drug arrests or those from areas with historically higher drug conviction rates. Saldaña’s bill would make existing unused or revoked licenses mobile and add 52 more retail licenses to the program. The LCB has also altered its scoring rubric for candidates, favoring applicants with prior drug arrests or previous medical cannabis dispensary ownership.
A Long-Awaited Opportunity
The application process for the social equity program opened on March 1, giving people like Asai and Manning another chance at obtaining a retail cannabis license. Though the road has been challenging, this legislation aims to create a more equitable future for the cannabis industry in Washington.
Applying for Social Equity Licenses
Social equity applicants can apply for a special license until March 30. To begin an application and view the list of required documents, visit the LCB’s website.
