By JM Pedini, NORML
Virginia's legislature did its part by passing a bill to legalize and regulate adult-use cannabis sales. Gov. Abigail Spanberger (D) should sign it without seeking amendments that would postpone the market's launch.
Virginia became the first Southern state to legalize marijuana for adults in 2021, but the 2022 election of Republican Gov. Glenn Youngkin brought four years of stalled cannabis policy and a surge in illicit market activity. Legalization didn't create Virginians' demand for marijuana — Youngkin's refusal to establish a regulated market let unregulated operators fill the gap instead.
The unregulated market carries none of the obligations placed on licensed dispensaries: no consumer safety standards, no age verification, no consistent product testing, and no reliable labeling. There are no meaningful safeguards to keep such products out of minors' hands. Where regulated sales exist, the illicit market has shrunk as consumers shift to licensed retailers offering accurately tested, clearly labeled products.
Five years after Virginia first approved legalization, no regulated retail cannabis system exists outside the medical program. Sen. Lashrecse Aird's (D) SB 542 and Del. Paul Krizek's (D) HB 642 would allow adults 21 and older to purchase tested and labeled cannabis at licensed dispensaries beginning January 1, 2027. The General Assembly kept the tax rate aligned with neighboring states, including Maryland — a critical decision, since an unaffordable legal market won't draw consumers away from illicit sellers. Aird's companion bill, SB 543, adds enforcement resources and consumer and industry protections that take effect when retail sales begin.
"Any delay in implementation continues to drive consumers to the illicit market, jeopardizes public safety and delays the tools needed by law enforcement and regulators to address these concerns."
Virginians deserve a system with real consumer protections and meaningful age restrictions. Spanberger should sign SB 542 and HB 642 as written.
JM Pedini is the development director at NORML, the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws, and executive director of Virginia NORML.
