Alleged 'raids' of Seattle-area LGBTQ+ bars prompts action from WA Liquor and Cannabis Board

SEATTLE - The Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board (LCB) notified Governor Jay Inslee Friday that it is no longer enforcing the state's lewd conduct law in response to recent "raid" accusations from Seattle-area LGBTQ+ bars.

LCB says it partnered with the City of Seattle Joint Enforcement Team (JET) last week, which resulted in additional enforcement work at some historically gay Seattle venues.

The JET consists of Seattle Police, Seattle Fire, and other code enforcement agencies. Much of the Seattle queer community felt blindsided by these unannounced visits from JET, where they tried to enforce nudity laws in places that sell alcohol.

LCB says it has become aware of the fear and alarm it raised within the LGBTQ+ community, and is now taking immediate steps to prevent a repeat of last weekend's events.

This includes:

Suspending enforcement of the lewd conduct rule while the board considers possible changes or modifications
Suspending participation with the JET
Not issuing any citations or violations related to last weekend's events
Preparing to review, amend, or repeal lewd conduct regulations
Working with legislators to protect LGBTQ+ communities
Reviewing past practices and policies based on recent complaints
Continuing to engage with the LGBTQ+ community

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LCB says it hopes to establish a strong relationship with the LGBTQ+ community and looks forward to sharing its progress in the future.