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Virginia lawmakers have officially kicked off a new effort to create a legal retail cannabis market. A special commission, formed earlier this year, held its first meeting in Richmond to figure out how to move forward after several failed attempts.
Delegate Paul Krizek, who helped create the commission, was chosen as chair. He says the goal is to build a fair and safe cannabis system that supports public health, small businesses, and racial equity—especially after years of unequal enforcement during marijuana prohibition.
The commission plans to use parts of a previously vetoed bill as a base for a new plan, aiming to legalize sales by 2026—when a new governor will be in office. It will run through 2028 and give lawmakers time to hear from the public and shape a strong cannabis policy.
What Happened Before
Earlier this year, lawmakers passed a bill (with support from both parties) that would’ve started legal cannabis sales by May 2026. It included licenses for growers, sellers, and testers—plus a special license for small or historically disadvantaged businesses.
The bill also outlined how tax money would be spent:
- 40% to early childhood education
- 30% to communities hit hardest by the war on drugs
- 25% to addiction treatment
- 5% to general public health
But Governor Glenn Youngkin vetoed the bill, saying it would increase crime, harm kids, and wouldn’t stop the illegal market. He also vetoed other related bills, like ones that would have cleared old cannabis charges or protected parents from being penalized for legal marijuana use in custody battles.
Legal, but Not Regulated
Since 2021, it’s been legal for adults in Virginia to possess and grow small amounts of marijuana. But there’s still no legal way to buy it unless you’re a medical patient. That means people are still buying from unregulated and untaxed sources.
Senator Adam Ebbin said the current system isn’t working and it’s time to move sales from the street to licensed stores with age checks and safety standards.
Public Weighs In
Many community members spoke at the first meeting, including business owners, farmers, and activists. They asked the commission to focus on equity, education, and making sure smaller and marginalized groups can take part in the industry.
Chelsea Higgs Wise, a longtime advocate, stressed that the legal market should benefit more than just big businesses. Farmer Thelonius Cook reminded the group that Black farmers deserve a place in this new economy, especially given the state's history.
Wellness coach Jabria Craft called for education-focused policies that help people understand cannabis—not just fear it.
What’s Next?
The commission is expected to come up with a new retail cannabis bill by next year. Their success may depend on who wins the governor’s race in November. Democrats hope that a new administration will be more open to legal sales.
For now, the commission will continue to gather feedback and work toward a system that can safely and fairly regulate marijuana in Virginia. Their next meeting is scheduled for August 20.
SOURCE: Virginia Mercury