Implementation of legalized marijuana system to be discussed in Vancouver

What: Marijuana initiative implementation forum.

Where: Clark College, Foster Auditorium, 1933 Fort Vancouver Way.

When: 6-10 p.m. Feb. 7.

The Washington State Liquor Control Board will hold a public forum on the implementation of the marijuana-legalizing Initiative 502 at Clark College on Feb. 7.

Attendees can meet board staff members who are involved with I-502 and get updated on the process. From 7:15 to 10 p.m., the public can offer input for the board to consider as it develops rules.

The forum is one of six occurring around the state through Feb. 21.

“Clearly, there is passion about what Washington’s system of legal marijuana will look like when fully implemented,” said Board Chair Sharon Foster in a news release.

The board has until Dec. 1 to write the rules for the new system, which includes procedures for a retail market.

Retail stores will be licensed and regulated by the board, but will be private-sector businesses. Initial licenses for retailers will likely be available toward the end of 2013.

Marijuana’s average retail price before tax will be $12 per gram, taxed at 25 percent, according to the Office of Financial Management.

One aspect of the system that hasn’t been discussed is whether people who live outside of Washington can purchase marijuana. The initiative states that marijuana can only be consumed in Washington.

The public can sign up to get email notifications on I-502 through the Washington State Liquor Control Board website.

Patty Hastings: 360-735-4513; http://www.twitter.com/col_cops; patty.hastings@columbian.com.