Bill > SB5796

This bill restructures the appropriations of cannabis revenue in Washington state to provide more transparency and accountability, and to increase community infrastructure and investment. Specifically, the bill: 1. Amends the existing dedicated cannabis account to specify that all cannabis-related revenue must be deposited in the account, and that monies may only be spent after appropriation by the legislature. 2. Reorganizes and revises the appropriations from the cannabis account, including directing funding to the Liquor and Cannabis Board for administration, the Department of Health for cannabis education and public health programs, the Department of Commerce for cannabis social equity grants and technical assistance, research at the University of Washington and Washington State University, and various other state agencies and programs. 3. Requires the Joint Legislative Audit and Review Committee to conduct a review of the appropriation and expenditure of cannabis revenues and report to the legislature by December 1, 2023, to evaluate transparency and accountability. The bill aims to provide more structure, oversight, and transparency around the use of cannabis tax revenues in Washington.

Budget and Finance, Business and Industry

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5796&Year=2021&Initiative=false