-
Dominic Castillo
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.
Share This Story

Dominic Castillo
More Stories

Virginia Beach Is One Of The Safest Cities In The US In 2023
The WalletHub study compared 182 cities, including the 150 most populated…
More Stories
Virginia Beach Among The Top 25 Happiest Cities
They compared the 200 largest American cities using 13 relevant...
Apex – New Indoor Amusement Park Coming
Offering go-karts, virtual sports simulators, laser tag...
Weather
Donate to TheVBJ!
More

Norfolk In “Early Negotiations” With Pharrell’s Team For Military Circle Redevelopment
Some other familiar names are part of Wellness Circle, LLC, including Armada Hoffler, Live Nation, Venture Realty Group, and the YMCA of South Hampton Roads.

Virginia Beach Gets A New Reggae Festival
Headlining the two-day Oceanfront event are the iconic band…

Virginia Beach Ranked 29th Best City to Buy a House in 2024
Choosing where to live is one of the most significant decisions a person can make…

Virginia Beach Adult And Youth Sports Leagues
Sign up and stay fit this summer.

New Maker Space Coming To Norfolk’s Pretlow Library
It will be similar to Slover Library’s maker studio.