5 hearings this week on Washington marijuana rules

Marijuana hearings in Washington

EVERETT — Five public hearings will be held this week on the proposed rules for state-authorized sale of recreational marijuana in Washington.

Hearings will be held Tuesday in Everett and Seattle. Two hearings also will be held on Wednesday in Olympia and Ellensburg. The fifth hearing will be Thursday in Spokane.

The hearings are part of the process for implementing Initiative 502, which was approved by voters in November to legalize marijuana for adults. The first pot stores could be open next year.

The state Liquor Control Board will regulate growing, distributing and selling marijuana in the stores.

The Daily Herald reports the board is asking for public comment on requirements for securing, tacking and testing marijuana, store hours and child-resistant packaging.