
Virginia’s journey toward establishing a legal marijuana market is taking another step forward. A Virginia Senate committee recently approved legislation aimed at regulating adult-use marijuana sales, pushing the measure to its next phase despite strong opposition from Governor Glenn Youngkin. While recreational marijuana is already legal in the state, there is still no way to purchase it legally. For now, the only option for Virginians to access marijuana is through medical dispensaries, which require a medical marijuana card.
This article explores the latest legislative developments, the governor's stance, and why obtaining a medical marijuana card remains essential for Virginians.
The Push for Regulated Marijuana Sales
Virginia’s Senate Committee on Rehabilitation and Social Services recently advanced SB 970, a bill introduced by Sen. Aaron Rouse (D). The measure aims to create a regulated marketplace for adult-use marijuana, ensuring public safety and reducing reliance on the state’s thriving illicit market. The committee approved the bill with a narrow 8–7 vote, highlighting the contentious nature of marijuana reform in Virginia.
If passed, the bill would allow adults to purchase up to 2.5 ounces of marijuana from licensed retailers. Regulators at the Virginia Cannabis Control Authority would oversee the program, with sales projected to begin as early as May 2026. The legislation also includes provisions for taxing marijuana sales, equity-focused licensing programs, and stringent regulations to ensure safe and responsible use.
Despite these efforts, Governor Youngkin has made his opposition clear. In his State of the Commonwealth address, he reiterated his stance against a retail marijuana market, citing concerns about youth access, mental health, and public safety.
Governor’s Opposition and Legislative History
Governor Youngkin has consistently blocked efforts to establish a retail marijuana market in Virginia. Last year, he vetoed a similar proposal, citing similar concerns about the impact of legalization on public health and safety. His opposition has left Virginia in a peculiar situation: recreational marijuana use is legal, but there’s no legal way to purchase it.
This regulatory gap has fueled a booming illicit market, with unregulated stores and underground dealers meeting consumer demand. Proponents of SB 970 argue that a well-regulated marketplace would address these issues by ensuring product safety, taxing sales, and reducing criminal activity. Advocates point to data from other states, which shows that regulating marijuana sales leads to declines in youth use and decreases in illicit market activity.
Why Medical Marijuana Is the Right Choice for Virginians
For now, medical marijuana remains the only legal option for accessing marijuana in Virginia. Patients who meet the qualifying conditions can obtain a medical marijuana card, which grants access to licensed dispensaries. Here’s why medical marijuana is the right choice:
Safe and Regulated Products: Medical marijuana dispensaries provide lab-tested products, ensuring safety and consistency, something the illicit market cannot guarantee.
Customized Care: Medical marijuana allows for tailored treatment plans, helping patients manage conditions like chronic pain, PTSD, and cancer-related symptoms.
Legal Protections: Possessing a medical marijuana card ensures you’re protected under state law, giving you peace of mind while accessing essential treatment.
Access to Expertise: Licensed dispensaries and medical professionals offer guidance on dosing and product selection, helping patients achieve the best outcomes.
What the Proposed Legislation Includes
The reintroduced legislation outlines a comprehensive framework for regulating marijuana sales in Virginia. Key provisions include:
Retail sales could begin by May 2026, with regulators issuing licenses starting in September 2025.
Adults would be allowed to purchase up to 2.5 ounces of marijuana or equivalent amounts of other products.
A tax structure would apply, with a combined state and local tax rate of up to 11.625% on retail sales.
Local governments could opt out of allowing marijuana businesses through a voter-approved referendum.
Equity-focused licensing would prioritize applicants from historically disadvantaged communities or those impacted by prior marijuana laws.
These measures aim to create a regulated market that balances economic opportunity, public safety, and equity.
Supporters of the legislation argue that regulating marijuana sales is essential to curbing the state’s illicit market, which is estimated to be worth nearly $3 billion. Illegal operators currently supply untested, untaxed products, often targeting underage consumers. By establishing a regulated market, Virginia could:
Ensure product safety through testing and accurate labeling.
Generate tax revenue to fund public health initiatives and community programs.
Reduce violent crime associated with the unregulated marijuana trade.
Advocates also emphasize that regulation would address Governor Youngkin’s concerns about youth access. Studies from other states show that youth marijuana use declines when legal markets replace the illicit trade.
The Path Forward
While the Senate’s advancement of SB 970 is a positive step, the bill faces significant challenges. Governor Youngkin’s continued opposition means the legislation is likely to face a veto if it reaches his desk. However, proponents hope that bipartisan support and growing public demand for a regulated market will eventually overcome these hurdles.
With the governor’s term ending next year, advocates believe the next administration may be more receptive to marijuana reform. In the meantime, the medical marijuana program remains a lifeline for Virginians seeking legal access to marijuana.
Final Thoughts
Virginia’s path to establishing a retail marijuana market is fraught with challenges, but the medical marijuana program provides a critical alternative for patients. For those managing chronic conditions or seeking safe, legal access to marijuana, obtaining a medical marijuana card is the best option.
While lawmakers and advocates push for broader reforms, medical marijuana offers immediate benefits. It ensures access to regulated products, protects patients under state law, and provides tailored treatment options. If you’re in Virginia and need marijuana for medical purposes, don’t wait, schedule an appointment, get your medical marijuana card, and take control of your health today.
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 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 would make 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.
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!
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