Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Enforcement Vs Rulemaking topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Board frames patient-verification complaints as enforcement and education problem, not ambiguous rule
Summary
Agency staff and two board members said the evidence from petitioner spot-checks points to training and enforcement gaps; staff urged education and spot-check enforcement rather than changing WAC language.
Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board staff told members that the issue raised by petitioner John Kingsbury—retailers allegedly failing to verify medical cannabis recognition cards—appears rooted in enforcement and training shortfalls rather than unclear rule text.
Kevin Walder, policy and rules manager, said DOH training materials and WAC 314-55-080 already emphasize recognition-card verification and that audits and recordkeeping create pathways for corrective action. "We can amend and revise rules all we want...but aside from temporarily raising awareness...it likely won't make a significant difference in the long run without any real or sustained focus on licensee education following rule adoption or follow-up with enforcement and audits," Walder said. Board member Garrett echoed the enforcement-first view, saying the board should ensure enforcement follows up before pursuing rulemaking.
