Marijuana

Virginia lawmakers have advanced a revised legislative framework to establish a regulated retail marijuana market, with sales potentially beginning as early as November 1, 2026.

Virginia Democrats have introduced proposed changes to the state's cannabis framework as part of ongoing budget considerations, aiming to enhance the retail marijuana market through a focus on equity and statewide uniformity. The proposals include allocating funds for licensing support, eliminating local veto options on dispensaries, and mandating labor agreements for industry participants.

After four years of stalled efforts and repeated vetoes from outgoing Gov. Glenn Youngkin, Virginia lawmakers now see a clear path to finally standing up a legal adult-use Marijuana market.

Gubernatorial hopefuls Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle Sears and Abigail Spanberger, former Congresswoman, appeared on stage in person for the first time and probably only time during this election. They answered questions for one hour that ranged from the hated car tax to Jay Jones text messages to the Trump Administration and the ongoing shutdown of the federal government.

If enacted, the legislation would make Virginia one of the few Southern states with a legal marijuana retail market