Legislation designed to increase the sentences of those convicted of robbing a licensed marijuana store has been passed unanimously by the Washington State Senate.
(Photo credit: Tom Sydow).
Senate Bill 6133 was passed by the Senate Tuesday in a unanimous 49 to 0 vote, sending it to the House of Representatives for consideration. The measure was filed by Senators James McCune (R), Karen Keiser (D) and Mike Padden (R).
“A 12-month sentence enhancement is created for individuals convicted of robbery in the first or second degree of a cannabis retail outlet”, states the bill’s summary.
“For the enhancement to apply, it must be plead and proven that the cannabis retail outlet is licensed according to state law and an individual used a vehicle to damage or gain access to the retail outlet, or the individual committed the robbery in concert with one or more other persons.”
The measure’s passage comes amidst a string of marijuana-related robberies across the state, including some marijuana stores that have been robbed multiple times over the course of a few months.
Washington legalized marijuana in 2012, establishing a system of licensed, taxed and regulated marijuana stores. Given federal law forbids banks from providing services to marijuana businesses, marijuana stores must remain entirely cash-only, making them a prime target for criminals.
If SB 6133 passes the House, it will be sent to Governor Jay Inslee.
