A new report presented to Washington lawmakers shows the state produced far more marijuana in 2023 than it sold, prompting concerns about where the excess product is ending up.
According to the Washington State Institute for Public Policy, marijuana production in 2023 was two to three times greater than what was purchased by consumers. Yet the state Liquor and Cannabis Board (LCB) has no clear data on what happened to the remaining supply.
“Surplus cannabis may be destroyed, or it could be diverted to the illegal market either in state or out of state,” the report notes.
The findings were reviewed by the Joint Legislative Audit and Review Committee, which is now calling for reforms. One major recommendation is for the LCB to submit a plan to the legislature by the end of 2025 detailing how it will improve data collection from producers and retailers. The plan must include what funding and staffing would be required to implement better tracking.
Lawmakers say the move is needed to ensure transparency and accountability as the state’s marijuana industry continues to grow.
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