Washington’s full Senate has approved legislation that restricts the Liquor and Cannabis Control Board (LCB) from regulating the size of signs and billboards put up by marijuana stores, while removing the 1600 square inch cap for retail signs.
Senate Bill 5363, filed by Senators Drew MacEwen (R) and Derek Standford (D), was passed by the Senate today in a 48 to 1 vote. The measure must now be passed through the House of Representatives before it can be sent to Governor Jay Inslee.
According to an official summary of the bill, the Liquor and Cannabis Control Board (LCB) “may not regulate the size of retail signs, whether indoor or outdoor, and billboards for licensed cannabis retailers.”
The measure states that “Licensed cannabis retailers are subject to any size requirements for retail signs and billboards of the city, town, or county in which the retailer is located. LCB’s rule-making authority regarding any other advertising requirements is not affected.”
The requirement for retail signs to not exceed 1600 square inches would also be removed.
Marijuana was legalized in Washington in 2012. The state has a system of licensed and regulated marijuana businesses, overseen by the LCB.
Earlier this month the Senate voted overwhelmingly to pass legislation that could lead to future changes in the state’s marijuana excise tax.
Last month legislation that would prohibit Washington cities from banning marijuana stores without voter approval was approved through the House Committee on Regulated Substances & Gaming.
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