Wash. state receives access to background check database for legal pot dealers

finally granted the state access to an FBI database so the state can conduct background checks on those who apply for a license. The Dept. of Justice allowed the state access in order to stand by its requirements that those with “troublesome” criminal histories be kept out of the industry. By granting access to the database, the state is able to see if potential licensees have criminal histories, and their applications can be approved or denied on a case-by-case basis, depending on parole status and how recent their convictions are. Having a conviction within the past decade immediately disqualifies Washington residents from acquiring licenses to grow or sell marijuana. Previously, the state had to rely on background checks by the Washington State Patrol, and only included in-state arrest records. According to the Obama administration, the goal in requiring state licensing is to ensure that revenues from the industry don’t trickle back down into illegal drug trafficking or other forms of organized crime. The Dept. of Justice allows similar background checks in Colorado, for those who wish to acquire licenses to distribute marijuana legally, but up until the beginning of April, Washington’s requests were met with silence. Last month, in a memo to the Associated Press, the Dept. of Justice stated that it aims “to ensure a consistent national approach” to the way licenses are dealt with in the industry. According to the memo, “This decision to permit states and localities to perform their own background checks for marijuana licenses is consistent with our previous guidance designed to protect public safety and ensure strict regulation of those businesses.” Since the state received access to the database, Washington has issued 10 licenses to grow or sell marijuana.]]>