LAST UPDATED JANUARY 27, 2021
When it comes to legalizing cannabis, Washington state is the original success story. In 2012, Washington became the very first U.S. state to legalize the recreational use of cannabis after more than a decade of medical legalization. With the passing of Initiative 502, adults over the age of 21 became legally allowed to purchase and possess cannabis products from licensed dispensaries. The state still has an active medical marijuana program as well.
With one of the most mature markets in the country, the legal cannabis industry has grown at a staggering rate in Washington and now contributes roughly $2 billion a year to the state’s economy, according to a recent report on 2020 cannabis sales from Washington State University. Retail cannabis sales alone have grown 605% between 2015 and 2020, the report found.
Cova’s cannabis retail software suite is fully integrated with Leaf Data Systems, making it easier than ever for retailers to receive products and report their inventory data to the state. With Cova, retail owners can automate state reporting, build rapport with customers on the sales floor, monitor all locations remotely, plus much more.
Below, we’ve provided answers to some of the most pressing questions for cannabis retailers in Washington. But as the industry matures and loopholes or problems in the law are identified, these rules could change. As such, we will keep this page updated as changes arise. This page is informational only and should not be considered legal advice.