Marijuana in Virginia: The Future Retail Marijuana Market

Virginia made headlines in 2021 when it became the first Southern state to legalize the possession and home cultivation of marijuana for adults 21 and over. Yet three years later, there is still no legal way to buy recreational marijuana.

While it's perfectly legal to grow up to four marijuana plants per household and possess up to an ounce, the retail market needed to support legal sales never materialized. This means the only way Virginians can currently access marijuana legally through a dispensary is by obtaining a medical marijuana card.

Despite repeated attempts by lawmakers to launch a regulated adult-use marijuana market, Governor Glenn Youngkin has blocked every effort, most recently by vetoing a bipartisan bill that would have created a retail framework in 2024.

Why You Still Need a Medical Marijuana Card in Virginia

Until a retail market is officially established and operational, Virginia’s licensed dispensaries remain strictly medical-use only. That means:

• You must have a valid medical marijuana card to shop at any of Virginia’s licensed dispensaries.

• Recreational customers cannot legally buy marijuana anywhere in the state.

• Traveling to other states may result in legal complications depending on reciprocity laws and federal restrictions.

Let’s break down a few key reasons why getting a Virginia medical marijuana card is the smart move, especially in this uncertain policy landscape.

1. It’s the Only Legal Way to Buy Marijuana in Virginia

Though recreational possession is legal, purchasing marijuana without a medical card is not. Virginia has not launched any retail dispensaries for adult use, and no clear timeline exists for when, or if they will open.

2. Medical Marijuana Cards Offer Protection and Peace of Mind

Having a medical marijuana card protects you from potential legal issues. Even in a state where recreational use is technically legal, law enforcement may still question possession quantities, packaging, or source of the product.

With a medical card:

• You have legal proof of your right to possess and use marijuana.

• You can shop legally at regulated dispensaries.

• You avoid the risks associated with sourcing marijuana from unlicensed sellers.

3. Better Products, Better Oversight

Medical dispensaries in Virginia are state-regulated and must meet strict standards for product testing, labeling, and safety. Patients can access:

• High-quality, lab-tested marijuana

• Formulations for specific medical conditions

• Guidance from trained dispensary professionals

Until a recreational framework exists, medical dispensaries remain the only reliable source for safe, legal marijuana products in Virginia.

4. Avoid the Pricey Alternatives

Virginia's current system isn’t without its faults. Prices remain high averaging $14 per gram, the most expensive in the region, and access is limited in many areas. Some patients travel two or more hours to reach the nearest dispensary. Still, having a medical card gives you more control and the option to participate in reform advocacy.

Many patients seek alternatives in neighboring states. In Washington D.C., adult-use marijuana is legal and more affordable (around $8.73 per gram), and Virginia medical cards are accepted. Crossing state lines with marijuana, even medical, is still a federal offense.

What Happened?

In 2024, a bill designed to create Virginia’s adult-use marijuana market made it through the General Assembly, only to be vetoed by Governor Glenn Youngkin, who reaffirmed his opposition to marijuana retail sales.

The proposed bill would have:

• Legalized recreational sales starting in May 2025

• Imposed a 1.125% state sales tax and an 8% marijuana excise tax

• Allowed local governments to add up to a 2.5% local excise tax

• Generated an estimated $74 million in annual revenue by 2030

Despite its comprehensive framework, Youngkin’s concerns over the illicit market, public safety, and youth exposure as reasons for his veto.

November Election Could Change Everything

With Governor Youngkin leaving office in 2025, this year’s gubernatorial race could determine the future of retail marijuana in Virginia.

Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears (R) opposes retail marijuana sales, calling marijuana a “gateway drug.”

Former Rep. Abigail Spanberger (D) supports legalization and wants to use marijuana tax revenue to invest in schools and community services.

If a retail bill is to succeed, the next governor will need to support it, or at least not veto it. According to NORML’s JM Pedini, if no action is taken, Virginians may have to wait for another real chance at legal marijuana sales.

Final Thoughts

Virginia’s marijuana policy remains stuck in limbo, while it’s legal for adults to possess marijuana, there is still no legal way to purchase it unless you have a valid medical marijuana card. Without a regulated adult-use market in place, the state’s medical marijuana program remains the only safe, legal, and reliable option for Virginians seeking access to marijuana.

Getting your medical marijuana card provides several key benefits; legal access to licensed dispensaries, safe and lab-tested products, protection from legal gray areas, and a meaningful voice in shaping future policy. With no clear timeline for the launch of recreational sales, there’s no reason to wait. Don’t hold out for the next election cycle to determine your access, secure your medical marijuana card now and ensure you’re covered no matter how the policy landscape shifts.

Get Your Medical Marijuana Card Today

Lucky for you, medical marijuana is already available in Virginia! You can get your medical marijuana card and access dispensaries today if you have a qualifying condition.

Recreational marijuana is legal in Virginia, but it does not mean much since there are no recreational dispensaries to purchase products from.

There are also countless benefits to having your medical card in a recreational state! You will save money on taxes and marijuana products, and you will enjoy higher possession and purchase limits if you have your medical card in Virginia!

In order to qualify for your medical marijuana card, you will need to have a condition that makes you eligible. If you aren’t sure if you would qualify, give us a call and we can answer any questions you may have about the process.

If you don’t already have your card, no worries. We can help! If you think you could benefit from medical marijuana, there is a good chance you would qualify for your medical card in the State of Virginia. With telemedicine, it is now easier than ever to get your medical card from the comfort of your own home!

In Virginia, any inhibiting condition could qualify you for your medical card. If you don’t already have it, we can help! Schedule an evaluation online today and we’ll make an appointment for you with one of our knowledgeable, compassionate doctors.

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Doctors Who Care.

Relief You Can Trust.

At Virginia Marijuana Card, our mission is helping everyone achieve wellness

safely and conveniently through increased access to MMJ. Our focus on

education, inclusion, and acceptance will reduce the stigma for our patients by

providing equal access to timely information and compassionate care.

Call us at (888) 633-5808, or simply book a medical marijuana evaluation to start getting relief you can trust today!