Virginia Legislature Keeps Course on Marijuana Sales, Rebuffs Governor’s Amendments

Virginia lawmakers rejected Governor Abigail Spanberger’s amendments to the recreational marijuana sales bill, sending the measure back to her desk with a risk of a veto while preserving their own framework for a regulated market. The House voted by voice and the Senate approved 21-18 to block Spanberger’s changes, and lawmakers also declined her tweaks to a separate resentencing bill, though they adopted some of her adjustments to delivery and labeling rules. Key policy disputes include the start date (Jan. 1, 2027 in the legislature’s plan vs. Spanberger’s July 1, 2027), tax structure (6% excise and 5.3% sales tax vs. her proposed 8% excise), and revenue allocation (funds would go to a Cannabis Equity Reinvestment Fund and public programs rather than the general fund). The bill would allow up to 2.5 ounces per transaction, permit delivery, cap serving sizes at 10 mg THC per item (100 mg per package), and place licensing under the Virginia Cannabis Control Authority; localities could not opt out. If Spanberger vetoes, lawmakers would need to start over with new bills in 2027.