“This vote is another huge disappointment for Virginians, the majority of whom favor swift access to retail sales,” added Pedini. “Legislation providing regulatory oversight is the best way for the Commonwealth to protect cannabis consumers. By failing to take legislative action, lawmakers are electing to continue driving consumers to the unregulated, underground market.”
NORML Development Director JM Pedini, said that Tuesday’s vote represented “another stunning failure of leadership on cannabis policy.”
If public safety is an actual priority for either chamber, then they will approve legislation to begin sales at licensed dispensaries as soon as possible.”.
The language, which creates two new misdemeanors, will take effect with Republican Governor Glenn Youngkin’s signature.
With the 2022 legislative session having already ended, this vote effectively ends any further discussion of the legislation this year.
Senate Bill 391 advances to the House of Delegates on a historic bipartisan 21-18 vote.
“Today, together, we celebrate an extraordinary victory for cannabis justice in the Commonwealth.”
Virginia becomes the first southern state to legalize the possession and use of marijuana by adults.