In accordance with RCW 69.50.331 (12), all cannabis licensees may submit a Social Equity Plan to the Liquor and Cannabis Board to receive a one-time reimbursement of their annual license fee, per entity.
The purpose of the Social Equity Plan is to address ways in which your licensed cannabis business will promote social equity.
The social equity goals, defined in RCW 69.50.335, are intended to reduce accumulated harm suffered by individuals, families, and communities subjected to severe impacts from the historical application and enforcement of cannabis prohibition laws.
The Social Equity Plan should address elements that promote social equity. The plan may include:
- A statement that indicates how your licensed cannabis business will work to promote social equity in your community or communities most impacted by the war on drugs;
- The demographic composition of the workforce your licensed cannabis business has employed or intends to hire; and/or
- Business plans involving partnerships or assistance to organizations or residents with connections to populations with a history of high rates of enforcement of cannabis prohibition.
Examples of what could be included in the Social Equity Plan:
- A fruit and vegetable community garden in a disproportionately impacted area.
- Working with non-profit organizations that find work for individuals incarcerated for drug-related crimes.
- Hiring an individual(s) with prior cannabis offenses, convictions, or incarcerations.
- School supply drive in a disproportionately impacted area.
- Community beautification in disproportionately impacted areas.
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A community project that aids and supports highly impacted areas or people.
Download a copy of the Social Equity Plan form here.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Q: What is a Social Equity Plan?
A: Social Equity Plan addresses ways in which your licensed cannabis business will promote social equity in communities with a history of high rates of enforcement of cannabis prohibition.
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Q: Why should I submit a Social Equity Plan?
A: Social Equity plans are intended to help promote Social Equity goals. These goals are to reduce accumulated harm suffered by communities subjected to impacts from the historical application and enforcement of cannabis prohibition.
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Q: Is a Social Equity Plan Required?
A: No, a Social Equity Plan is not required, but it is encouraged.
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Q: If I have more than one cannabis license, will I receive a reimbursement for all of them?
A: No, an entity holding more than one cannabis license is eligible for only one reimbursement.
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Q: What happens after I submit a Social Equity Plan?
A: The Social Equity Plan will be reviewed and sent forward to LCB Finance to process a one-time reimbursement of your license fee.
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Q: Do I have to pay my renewal fee if I know I will be submitting a plan?
A: Yes, your renewal fee must be paid before a reimbursement will be issued.
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Q: If I have a Producer/Processor license, will I be issued a reimbursement of both fees?
A: No, you will only receive a reimbursement of one license fee.