Notice on Behalf of the Department of Health

What is the purpose of this notice?
The Washington State Department of Health (DOH) and Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board (WSLCB) are reaching out to industry leaders to notify you of temporary changes to heavy metal testing requirements. Products compliant with DOH rules are required to be tested for heavy metals and prohibited pesticides to promote patient safety under chapter 246-70 WAC. These requirements are voluntary and in addition to WSLCB rules.

What is the current situation?
Testing for heavy metals and pesticides is provided by a WSLCB certified testing lab. Beginning January 25, 2019, there will not be any laboratories certified to test cannabis products for heavy metals.  The department has filed emergency rules to temporarily suspend the heavy metal testing requirement, effective January 24, 2019. For licensed producers and processors committed to creating cannabis products compliant with DOH rules, securing a new lab will allow continued heavy metal testing services. The suspension would stay in effect until a lab becomes certified to screen for heavy metals.

How does the emergency rule impact me?
Effective January 24, 2019, products produced under this suspension that have not been tested for heavy metals, may still use the DOH logo appropriate for their product (General Use, High CBD, or High THC) as long as “Not Tested for Heavy Metals” is included on the label before being sold in retail stores. A copy of the emergency rule has been attached for reference.

Contact
For information on how to comply with this requirement, please contact the Medical Marijuana Program at 260-236-4819 or medicalmarijuana@doh.wa.gov. For other questions, please contact your Liquor and Cannabis Board enforcement officer.