Virginia Senate Approves Legal Marijuana Sales Bill Amid Veto Threat from GOP Governor
The Virginia Senate has passed a bill to license and regulate retail marijuana sales in the state, despite a veto threat from Republican Governor Glenn Youngkin. The bill, SB 970, was approved on a 21-19 party-line vote, with all Republicans voting against it and all Democrats voting in favor.
The bill would allow adults 21 and older to purchase up to 2.5 ounces of marijuana from state-licensed retailers, with sales expected to begin no earlier than May 1, 2026. The Virginia Cannabis Control Authority would oversee the licensing and regulation of the industry, and local governments could ban marijuana establishments with voter approval.
The bill also includes provisions for the taxation of marijuana sales, with a tax rate of up to 11.625 percent. Additionally, the bill would establish a system for the testing and labeling of marijuana products, and would prohibit the use of vending machines, drive-through windows, and other automated sales methods.
The bill’s sponsor, Senator Aaron Rouse (D), argued that the bill would help to create a safe and regulated market for marijuana, and would reduce the illegal drug trade. “In recent years, we’ve seen the unchecked proliferation of illegal and unregulated marijuana stores that has put Virginians at risk as unlicensed drug dealers sell billions of dollars of untested and untaxed products, and frequently to children,” Rouse said.
However, Governor Youngkin has threatened to veto the bill, citing concerns about the potential impact on public health and safety. Youngkin has also argued that the bill does not provide enough funding for substance abuse treatment and prevention programs.
The bill now heads to the House of Delegates, where it is expected to face a similar party-line vote. If the bill is approved by the House, it would then go to Governor Youngkin for his signature or veto.
In related news, the Virginia Senate has also advanced a bill to seal records related to marijuana possession, and a proposal to establish a program to provide access to psychedelic-assisted therapy for veterans.
