Virginia Legislature Votes to Legalize Recreational Marijuana Sales
In a significant step towards legalizing recreational marijuana sales, both chambers of the Virginia legislature have now passed bills to regulate and tax the industry. The House of Delegates voted 53-46 in favor of HB 2485, while the Senate approved companion legislation, SB 970, last week.
The bills, which will now be sent to the opposite chamber for consideration, would allow adults 21 and older to purchase up to 2.5 ounces of marijuana from licensed retailers. The legislation also establishes a tax rate of up to 11.625 percent on retail sales, with local governments able to levy an additional 2.5 percent.
Despite the progress, the bills are unlikely to become law without a change in Governor Glenn Youngkin’s stance. Youngkin, a Republican, has previously vetoed similar legislation and has indicated he plans to do so again.
Supporters of the legislation argue that legalizing recreational marijuana sales would help to shut down the illegal market, which is estimated to be worth nearly $3 billion. “It’s time for the state to put this $3 billion illegal cannabis market to sleep,” said Del. Paul Krizek, the sponsor of HB 2485.
The legislation also includes provisions to promote equity and social justice, such as an equity-focused microbusiness program and a Cannabis Equity Reinvestment Fund. Tax revenue from the program would be used to support substance use disorder treatment and prevention, as well as other initiatives.
The bills would also create new criminal penalties for certain offenses, such as selling or giving marijuana to someone under 21. However, possession of small amounts of marijuana by adults would remain legal, and sharing up to 2.5 ounces with other adults would be allowed without financial remuneration.
The Virginia Cannabis Association has expressed support for the legislation, with President Jason Blanchette stating that while he expects Youngkin to veto the bills, it is important to continue pushing for legalization. “We’ve got one more year of Youngkin, and then if we can get it out, get it on his desk, that’ll be two times the Democrats have gotten the exact same bill through,” Blanchette said. “The feeling is that’ll set some very strong precedent for the next governor.”
The legislation is expected to be considered by the full Senate and House of Delegates in the coming weeks.
