Open Container Law Applies To Pot

BREMERTON, Wash. (AP) — The Washington State Patrol says it's warning drivers about the state's new marijuana open-container law.

The law, which took effect last month, is similar to the prohibition on having open containers of alcohol in vehicles. It says any open containers of marijuana — meaning any pot products that aren't still sealed in their original packaging — have to be kept in the trunk or other area normally inaccessible to drivers and passengers. That means no marijuana in the glove compartment or center console.

The State Patrol says troopers on the Olympic Peninsula and in southwest Washington are so far giving warnings for infractions instead of the $136 ticket, but enforcement is up to the individual trooper and tickets could come at any time.