A bill that would legalize the licensed distribution of recreational marijuana in Virginia has been approved by the state’s full legislature and sent to Governor Glenn Youngkin.
Senate Bill 970, filed by State Senators Aaron Rouse (D), Jennifer Carroll Foy (D), and Lashrecse Aird (D), has been given final approval by both the House of Representatives and Senate, allowing the measure to be officially sent to the desk of Governor Youngkin.
The bill would establish a regulatory framework for legal cannabis sales, to be overseen by the Virginia Cannabis Control Authority. Under the legislation, the authority could begin issuing licenses for marijuana-related businesses starting September 1, 2025, with sales beginning by May 1, 2026.
Governor Youngkin has promised to veto the measure, similar to a move he made last year. The legislature can override the veto, but only with a two-thirds majority.
Virginia legalized the possession of marijuana in 2021 for those 21 and older. However, the law did not establish a recreational market, making them the only state to legalize marijuana but not allow licensed sales.
