Cannabis Guidance for Adult Family Homes
Residential Care Services (RCS) reissued its 2015 cannabis guidance for Adult Family Homes (AFHs) after the original publication reached its administrative retention period. The guidance is intended to help providers understand current expectations regarding resident cannabis use and the development of facility policies.
While cannabis is legal in Washington State for certain medical and recreational uses, it remains illegal under federal law. As a result, federal funding sources, including Medicaid, cannot be used directly or indirectly for activities or expenses related to cannabis use.
Because RCS receives federal funding, it cannot issue regulatory guidance that specifically supports cannabis use. However, RCS recognizes that many residents obtain cannabis through licensed dispensaries and may use it to help manage symptoms of certain medical conditions. The Washington State Department of Health (DOH) continues to provide guidance regarding the medical and recreational use of cannabis.
Provider Expectations
At this time, RCS will not cite Adult Family Homes for allowing residents to use cannabis, provided providers ensure resident safety and have clear policies outlining how cannabis use will be managed within the home.
RCS encourages all providers to develop written cannabis policies, even if cannabis use is not currently an issue in their facility. Establishing policies helps ensure staff, current residents, and prospective residents understand the home’s expectations.
Policy Considerations
When developing policies and procedures related to cannabis use, providers should consider:
- Residents who smoke cannabis should be assessed using safety considerations similar to those applied to tobacco use and applicable Washington Administrative Code (WAC) requirements.
- Cannabis products should be stored securely and kept out of reach of residents who may be at risk of harming themselves or others.
- Residents under the influence of cannabis may require additional supervision to ensure their safety.
- A resident’s use of cannabis, including how it is obtained, administered, supervised, and monitored, should be documented in the resident’s Negotiated Service Agreement.
Keeping Current with Cannabis Laws
RCS notes that state and federal laws related to medical and recreational cannabis continue to evolve. Providers are responsible for staying informed of current laws, regulations, and guidance that may affect cannabis use in Adult Family Homes.
Recommended Steps for AFH Providers
In light of this guidance, Adult Family Home providers are encouraged to:
- Develop or review written policies addressing resident cannabis use.
- Ensure staff understand the home’s policies and procedures regarding cannabis.
- Assess resident safety needs when cannabis is used, particularly for smoked products.
- Store cannabis products securely and in accordance with applicable safety requirements.
- Document cannabis use and any necessary supervision in each resident’s Negotiated Service Agreement.
- Stay informed of updates to state and federal cannabis laws and guidance issued by the Department of Health.
Not a Member Yet?
Membership fees enable the Council to cover legal expenses and fund staff to advocate with the state and regulatory agencies. The participation of every adult family home is vital to ensuring fair regulations and rates that accurately reflect the costs of caring for our vulnerable adults. Consider becoming a member of the Council to help us continue improving conditions for all adult family homes in Washington State.