WASHINGTON STATE

Washington State House Democrats

HOUSE DEMOCRATS

Companion bills would allow personal marijuana home grows

Clarity, limited bureaucracy and patient protections are the goals of bipartisan marijuana legislation introduced today by Sen. Jeanne Kohl-Welles, D-Seattle, and Rep. Brian Blake, D-Aberdeen.

Senate Bill 6083, sponsored by Kohl-Welles, and House Bill 2196, sponsored by Blake, would permit individuals 21 years of age or older grow up to six marijuana plants for personal use. Only one home grow would be allowed per residence. Anyone who grows marijuana for personal use would be able to possess up to 8 ounces of useable marijuana and donate up to one ounce to another adult without compensation. The legislation would go a long way towards eliminating the need for multiple regulatory schemes and remove incentives driving the illicit marijuana market, the sponsors said.

“This bill would protect patients as well as recreational users,” said Kohl-Welles. “It also would create a bright line for law enforcement officers so that they could easily assess how many plants are growing in a residence, check for age, and quickly decide if the operation is legal without hassling residents.”

“This bill is about consistency, congruency and especially, freedom” said Blake. “Adults in our state can brew their own beer and make their own wine for personal consumption. Just like alcohol, marijuana can be used safely and responsibly, so it makes sense to allow adults to home grow their own if they want to.”

“We must keep in mind the unique needs of seriously ill patients who already bear an overwhelming burden due to health care costs and lost opportunities,” added Kohl-Welles. “Many cannot afford to purchase marijuana from a state-licensed retailer to meet all their needs or may not be able to drive to get their medicine. This bill would allow these people to grow at least some of what they need to treat their medical condition without breaking the bank.”

Growing up to six marijuana plants for personal use is allowed in all the other states that have legalized marijuana – Colorado, Oregon, and Alaska, as well as the District of Columbia.