Senate Bill 5206 has cleared another legislative hurdle, passing the Senate Ways and Means Committee yesterday after previously being approved by the Senate Committee on Labor and Commerce. The bill now advances to the full Senate for a vote.
Sponsored by Senators Drew MacEwen (R), Chris Gildon (R), and Derek Stanford (D), the legislation would modify Washington’s marijuana advertising regulations by expanding signage allowances for licensed retailers.
If enacted, SB 5206 would increase the number of exterior signs marijuana retailers can display from two to four. These signs must be attached to the building or placed in windows, with each limited to 1,600 square inches. Smaller signs under 512 square inches that do not include branding, such as those indicating store hours or ATM availability, would be exempt from advertising regulations.
The bill reinforces prohibitions on marijuana advertising near schools, parks, playgrounds, and similar locations. It bars advertisements featuring alcohol, tobacco, or motor vehicles, as well as transit ads placed in or around public transportation facilities. Additionally, it bans promotions targeting individuals outside Washington and marketing tactics that could appeal to minors, including the use of mascots or cartoon imagery.
SB 5206 includes escalating penalties for violations, starting with a $1,000 fine and potentially leading to license suspension or revocation.
With approval from a second committee, the bill now heads to the full Senate for further consideration.
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