Virginia sets timetable for phased legal cannabis market by 2027

Virginia leaders announced a negotiated plan to launch a phased, 350-location retail cannabis marketplace by July 1, 2027, with a state tax starting at 6% and rising to 8% by 2029, and local jurisdictions allowed to add 1-3.5%. The package includes a 2-ounce per-transaction limit, up to 100 microbusiness licenses by May 1, 2027, strict testing and youth-protection measures, and revenue earmarked for childcare, education, and behavioral health; the plan ties to the state budget after vetoes and aims for a balanced rollout overseen by the Cannabis Control Authority.