Legislation that could make Washington a worldwide leader in the research of marijuana is headed to the governor’s desk following its unanimous passage by the House.

Senate Bill 5121, sponsored by Sen. Jeanne Kohl-Welles (D-Seattle), would create a marijuana research license for the production and possession of marijuana for research purposes.

“Prohibition of marijuana at the federal level has hampered research into the plant’s effect,” said Kohl-Welles. “Now that we have legalized marijuana in our state, it makes sense to research all the possible uses and applications of this plant.”

“Clearing the path for this emerging research is an important part of learning how we can harness the medical benefits of cannabis,” said Sen. Ann Rivers (R- La Center), co-sponsor of the bill. “I appreciated Sen. Kohl-Welles taking the lead on this bipartisan issue.”

Under the bill, licensed researchers would be able to produce and possess marijuana to test chemical potency and composition levels, conduct clinical investigations of marijuana-derived drug products, conduct research on the efficacy and safety of administering marijuana as part of a medical treatment, and conduct genomic or agricultural research. Furthermore, a marijuana research licensee may contract with the University of Washington or Washington State University to perform research in conjunction with the university. The Liquor Control Board would develop rules for the licensing and research projects would have to be approved by the Life Sciences Discovery Fund.

“Ultimately this will lead to greater patient protection,” said Kohl-Welles. “Testing marijuana products will ensure that vulnerable individuals and patients are assured that products they are using are safe and free of impurities and pesticides. Additionally, further research of the plant will help health care providers identify appropriate ways to treat different symptoms and illnesses with marijuana.

“This bill is especially important because it will allow researchers to collaborate with each other in a way that has never before been possible, which could result in a cascade effect of discoveries.

“This bill would allow us to finally have the chance to have peer-reviewed and widely acceptable facts around the plant’s benefits and harms.”