Virginia has really been put through the ringer in its journey to getting legal marijuana in the state.
After an entire tenure of a Republican governor who refused to pass anything marijuana related, a Democrat was elected in 2024 that was very marijuana friendly. A marijuana sales bill was passed in March by the State Senate, but from then on the momentum halted.
Apparently Governor Abigail Spanberger had some specific amendments that she wanted added to the bill, including a delay of the start by 6 months, a higher tax rate, and new criminal penalties for consumers.
This was then sent back to the Senate, who refused to take up the amendments. Now, we’re left with a standoff as the Governor vetoed the bill in its current form.
“I greatly appreciate the patrons’ time crafting this important piece of legislation as well as our continued dialogue and collaboration to strengthen this framework ahead of the next legislative session. I remain committed to working with members of the General Assembly, stakeholders, and law enforcement to get this right,” said Spanberger as she vetoed the legislation.
There’s certainly some frustration in the Senate, with one Senator airing out his grievances with how long it’s taking to get legal marijuana running in Virginia, saying that “once again, Virginia’s efforts to establish a safe, regulated and equitable adult-use cannabis marketplace has been halted despite years of work, public input and broad recognition that the status quo is failing Virginians.”
This veto and its consequences belong to the Governor and the Governor alone.
Delegate @KrizekForVA and I release the following statement as our historic legislation HB642/SB542 establishing a regulated adult-use cannabis retail market in Virginia was vetoed: pic.twitter.com/DBZqVNBxzE
— Senator Lashrecse Aird (@lashrecseaird) May 19, 2026
Judging by the tambor of the Governor’s statement, it does seem like she is expecting a continued dialogue and eventual passing, but the length of time it has taken is certainly not a great sign for its future.
Read the original story at Marijuana Moment.
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