State board adopts rules to restrict edible pot treats, labels, packaging

OLYMPIA -- The Washington State Liquor Control Board on Wednesday adopted emergency rules to restrict edible marijuana products and packaging to try to keep the items out of the hands of children.

The board's staff will bring a specific timeline for marijuana-infused products, labels and packaging approval before the board in about two weeks, the board ruled.

Pat Reichel, a grandmother of two boys, is worried when recreational pot shops open early next month that little ones could get their hands on THC treats and get sick.

“It would be really bad. I think it’s going to be a free for all,” said Reichel.

After learning of problems where children were exposed to products like these in Colorado, the Washington State Liquor Control Board is stepping in, announcing it wants to restrict edible pot treats sold here before the first 20 stores open starting July 8.

“We don’t want marijuana candy bars lying around on someone’s coffee table,” said Sharon Foster of the Liquor Control Board. “When we’re looking at gummy bears, and things like cherry bombs, we need to create a process so it can’t even get on the market before the board has approved it.”

That means all retail pot store owners must bring in their edible products and labeling before the items hit store shelves. Those products must also have child-proof packaging. The board said it may also consider banning things like pot gummy bears.

“They should have done it a long time ago. I guess it’s good they are thinking about it after the fact,” said Reichel.