The District of Columbia’s Alcoholic Beverage and Cannabis Board has finalized a series of regulatory amendments for the medical cannabis industry, making several key decisions regarding licensing, testing, and patient access.

Notably, the Board opted against imposing a limit on the number of retail cannabis licenses, citing concerns that such a cap could discourage cultivation center applicants and that existing regulatory tools are sufficient to manage potential market overconcentration. The Board also emphasized its commitment to verifying ownership during the application process and investigating any potential irregularities.

Regarding product safety, the Board declined to alter current testing requirements related to fertilizer and nutrient disclosure, as well as leaf tissue sampling. However, purchase limits were adjusted to address concerns related to the use of Colorado’s cannabis regulations, and the total amount of medical cannabis products patients can possess has been changed.

Packaging regulations were modified to allow for either “tamper-proof” or “tamper-evident” packaging, as long as it is difficult for children under five to open. The Board also removed prohibitions against brightly colored packaging and certain restrictions on medical cannabis chocolate products.

In other decisions, the Board chose not to establish a social equity advisory panel at this time. Temporary card changes for non-resident patients were implemented with an earlier effective date, and fees for temporary non-resident cards were reduced, including the creation of a new, less expensive 3-day card.

Internet retailers will not be required to operate brick-and-mortar locations. The Board clarified that the 50 percent social equity set-aside requirement applies to each specific license category. The “spousal conflict rule” will remain, as the Board determined that its elimination could potentially violate the D.C. Human Rights Act.

Waste disposal regulations will not be adjusted at this time, as they fall under the jurisdiction of a separate D.C. government agency. The Board also removed the previous limit of five patients per caregiver. These changes aim to refine the regulatory landscape for the medical cannabis industry in the District while balancing patient access and market stability.