Today, the Washington State Liquor Control Board (WSLCB) issued a few updates on the implementation process for Initiative 502 (I-502), the marijuana reform law that recently passed in November 2012.

Specifically, WSLCB announced that it plans to hold evening forums in six locations across Washington. These forums present an opportunity for the public to meet WSLCB representatives involved in the implementation of I-502, to learn how implementation will proceed in the coming months, and to provide comments on the law. The forums will begin in late January and will run until mid-February. The forum schedule will be announced next week on the I-502 implementation section of the WSLCB website.

In addition, due to WSLCB’s lack of experience in regulating marijuana, the Board is seeking a consultant to advise on various aspects of I-502 during implementation. In particular, the Board is hoping to retain the services of a consultant to advise on issues relating to agriculture, government, horticulture, and management. In order to select an appropriate consultant, WSLCB will be conducting a Request for Proposals (RFP) process, the details of which are expected to be available on January 15, 2013. Once the RFP is posted on the State’s online vendor registration and bidder notification system, Washington’s Electronic Business Solution (WEBS), interested persons will be required to submit an online registration.

To receive WSLCB’s latest updates on the progress of I-502, continue to follow the Stoel Rives Alcoholic Beverages Law Blog or sign up for the WSLCB I-502 Listserv here.