LCB to seek expedited CR105 filing to align rules with 2025 law changes

Kevin told the board the director's office will request approval to file a CR105 expedited rulemaking package to align existing WAC Title 314 language with new statutory changes resulting from multiple bills passed during the 2025 legislative session. "The proposed rule changes are explicitly dictated in statute, and the board has no discretion regarding implementation," Kevin said, summarizing the rationale for expedited rulemaking under the Administrative Procedures Act.

Kevin identified the legislation driving the package as House Bill 1636 (which removed a 24‑liter per transaction limit for certain licensees), House Bill 1698 (which revised terminology and updated mandatory server training requirements), and 2nd substitute Senate Bill 5786 (which updated many alcohol license and permit fees). He told the board the office expects to file with the code reviser on Nov. 19, open a public comment period from Nov. 19 through Jan. 3, and seek permission to file CR103 at the Jan. 7 board meeting if no substantial revisions are required.

Kevin also said the package will include ministerial corrections and repeal of temporary COVID‑era provisions that statutory changes removed. Because the changes are implementation of statute, he emphasized they are ministerial rather than discretionary policy shifts. The director's office will bring the CR105 filing request to the board for action at the next board meeting.