Retail marijuana sales are one step closer to becoming a reality in the Commonwealth.
For the second time, a marijuana bill is making its way through the General Assembly.
The bill would allow for marijuana licenses to be issued to business owners by the Virginia Cannabis Control Authority beginning this September.
“Every year that we do not enact retail sales in Virginia for adult use marijuana, is another year that the Commonwealth is choosing to continue ceding control of the marijuana market to untaxed, illicit operators,” NORML Development Director JM Pedini said.
Pedini, who also serves as the Executive Director of the state chapter of Virginia NORML, said the longer Virginia waits to legalize recreational sales, the more dangerous it is to Virginia’s youth.
Kevin Sabet, President and CEO of Smart Approaches to Marijuana, disagrees.
“The industry is hungry for money, they want to make money off of our young people and so of course they’re going to keep coming back again and again and again they’re going to be paying off lobbyists to pay off politicians that’s what they do best,” Sabet said.
A major concern on both sides is the impact of marijuana on children.
Pedini said if it’s legalized for retail, weed would be more regulated, thus cutting down on underage use.
When it’s illegal, Pedini said there’s a higher risk.
“This in no way provides for public or consumer safety or helps keep marijuana out of the hands of kids,” Pedini said.
Sabet said legalization would lead to an increase in promoting weed, which could lead to an increase in access for kids.
“This bill has no limit on advertising so you could be seeing it on your kid’s social media feed, billboards, bus stops, etc. and the bill has no limits on the kinds of products that can be marketed,” Sabet said.
According to the bill, sales would begin in May of next year.
The bill is expected to go before the House this week for its third reading and vote.
If it passes, it’s in the hands of the Governor.
ABC 13 reached out to Governor Youngkin’s office.
A representative said the Governor plans to once again veto the bill if it comes across his desk.
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