Liquor and Cannabis Board approves expedited rules to implement three 2026 laws

The Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board voted to approve a CR105 expedited rulemaking package to implement statutory changes enacted in the 2026 legislative session. Kevin Walder, the agencypolicy and rules manager, told the board the package would align five sections of chapter 314-55 with statutes "explicitly dictated in statute, and the board has no discretion regarding implementation." Board member Pete moved to approve the package and Ali seconded; the Chair recorded the motion carried.

The expedited package implements three legislative changes the rules team identified: a bill allowing snack bar licensees to serve wine by the glass in addition to beer in open bottles or cans; a bill increasing the maximum number of seats for theater licenses from 120 to 200; and a bill raising license fees for cannabis producers, processors, and retailers. Walder said the CR105 filing would be submitted that day, that a public comment period would run through June 20, and that the agency would seek CR103 adoption at the July 1 board meeting if no substantive changes arise. Board members praised the rules teamfor advancing statutorily required updates while noting the need to communicate with licensees about the changes.