Washington State stands at the forefront of the legal cannabis industry, having legalized medical cannabis in 1998 and recreational adult-use cannabis in 2012 through Initiative 502 (I-502). This pioneering state established a robust regulatory framework, creating distinct license types to manage the cultivation, processing, and retail sale of cannabis products.

For those interested in the distribution aspect of the Washington cannabis market, the I-502 Processor license is paramount. Licensed cannabis processors are authorized to transform raw cannabis into usable products, concentrates, and edibles, as well as package, label, and sell these goods wholesale to cannabis retailers and other processors throughout the state. Additionally, a separate cannabis transporter license exists for the physical delivery of cannabis and cannabis products between licensed establishments. These licenses are crucial for the supply chain, connecting producers with the vibrant retail market in cities like Seattle, Spokane, Tacoma, Vancouver, and Bellevue.