LCB reports 17 social equity cannabis licenses issued and describes mobility outcomes

Agency managers Aaron Washington and Linda Thompson updated the board on progress in the Social Equity in Cannabis program, reporting licensing and applicant‑status data and describing outreach efforts to local authorities.

Linda Thompson said the program has issued 17 social equity licenses across the state since selections began under HB 2870 and later SB 5080; she described where licenses and secured locations exist and noted increased movement by 50‑80 applicants toward licensing. "As of today, 17 social equity licenses have been issued across the state," Thompson said, and listed counties and cities with licensees and pending locations.

Aaron Washington summarized operational work: the team reviewed 151 addresses with GIS checks to verify buffer zones and other restrictions, and staffers are performing weekly, bimonthly, and quarterly case management outreach depending on application window. Presenters described local authority outreach (e.g., Pasco committee hearing, Lynnwood lifting a ban for four stores) and said the team is exploring text notifications, resource fairs, and events for local authorities to promote participation in the regulated market. Board members thanked staff and offered to help with outreach to jurisdictions still restricting cannabis retail.