TheVBJ reported recently on Virginia’s historic move to become the 16th state to legalize recreational marijuana when the legislature passed the relevant bills (HB 2312 and SB 1406).

But the final legislation left some unimpressed, as it meant a three year wait for legal possession and cultivation, aligning with the eventual opening of retail stores. This is partly due to concerns about a black market developing before retail stores are able to meet new, higher demand.

It seems Governor Northam agrees with many residents and interested parties who think that’s no reason to wait for some of the more important provisions of the new law, and he’s just announced amendments to the bills that would legalize simple possession and home cultivation effective July 1 this year. Now the legislation goes back to state representatives for another vote, due to take place this week.

About the changes Governor Northam said, “Virginia will become the 16th state to legalize marijuana—and these changes will ensure we do it with a focus on public safety, public health, and social justice. I am grateful to the advocates and legislators for their dedicated work on this important issue, and I look forward to this legislation passing next month.”

Marijuana legalization is growing increasingly popular in the US, with a new poll showing that 3/4 of the country support ending federal prohibition.

To make sure your representatives know how you feel on the issue, you can quickly find their email addresses by going to Virginiageneralassembly.gov and either enter your address, or you can click “use map” and click on your home there. The first two results that pop up will be your State Delegate and State Senator. You can right-click on the word “email” to save their email address.