HomeMy WebLinkAboutCAP 2015-06-08 Item 2 - Update - Medical CannabisCity of Tukwila
Jim Haggerton, Mayor
TO: Mayor Haggerton
Community Affairs and Parks Committee
FROM: Rachel Turpin, City Attorney
Nora Gierloff, Deputy Director Department of Community Development
DATE: June 3, 2015
SUBJECT: Medical Marijuana Update
ISSUE
The City currently has in place a moratorium prohibiting medical marijuana collective gardens
and dispensaries. This moratorium is set to expire in October, so staff is in need of policy
direction in order to craft regulations to replace the moratorium.
BACKGROUND
The City has had a moratorium prohibiting medical marijuana collective gardens and
dispensaries for several years, due to a lack of clarity in state laws regarding medical marijuana
and a lack of regulation of this industry. The Washington State Legislature recently passed
legislation that will dramatically change the current state medical marijuana laws in July 2016.
DISCUSSION
City staff are in the process of crafting a new ordinance to replace the City's existing medical
marijuana moratorium when it expires in October. The Cannabis Patient Protection Act,
recently passed by the Washington State Legislature, makes significant changes to the state's
current medical marijuana laws and adds new regulations to this industry. The purpose of this
meeting is to discuss the changes to the law and options for the City moving forward.
FINANCIAL IMPACT
Unknown at this time.
RECOMMENDATION
Information only.