Virginia had lots of promise at the beginning of the month. However, disagreements between members of the House and Senate could put their bills in jeopardy. Both HB 2312 and SB 1406 passed the House and Senate respectively. Afterwards, a committee formed with members from both chambers to create a compromise before sending the bill to Governor Northam.

That’s where the process is stalled. 

There’s one thing that remained consistent throughout discussion. Sales wouldn’t begin until January 1, 2024, three years from now. Both the Senate and the House agree. The differences come with almost everything after that. 

Disagreement

One of the biggest differences that House members and Senate members can’t come to an agreement on is decriminalization measures. Some members want to decriminalize possession up to one ounce immediately. Others say to not decriminalize until the bill goes into effect. Plus, in 2020, SB 2 became law. All possession charges dropped to $25 civil fines. Some say that is enough. Others say no. 

“We can’t risk more people being caught in the system for acting in ways that will soon be legal,” wrote a coalition of 25 advocacy organizations led by the ACLU of Virginia.

Chelsea Higgs Wise, the director of nonprofit Marijuana Justice, says SB 2 only further adds to Virginia’s history of racism. “The commonwealth’s ‘decriminalization’ enforcement maintains Virginia’s racial disparities and goes against Governor Northam’s stated commitment to social equity, racial equity, and economic equity for marijuana legislation,” Wise stated. 

There is also concern between both chambers about youth usage of recreational marijuana. SB 1406 would increase the penalties for underage consumers caught with marijuana. Fines for possession for people 18-20 would increase from $25 to $250. Those under 18 could see $200 fines for their first offense. 

Valerie Slater, director of RISE for Youth, says by adding these additional offenses to minors, these childern would be hindered in life before they got a chance to reach adulthood. It could also lead to further racism in the state for looking specifically at children of color and charging them over non-colored children.

Future

There is a chance a full chamber vote could begin on a proposed combination bill as early as Friday February 26th. But many are skeptical the bill will even be introduced, despite push from the public and Governor Northam. There is a chance this compromise could fall apart simply because there’s no time left.

As more news develops, we will be sure to update you with the latest. Make sure to check back for more cannabis and hemp related news.