Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin has vetoed House Bill 2485, which sought to create a retail marijuana market in the state. In his decision, he raised concerns about the potential negative impacts on children’s health and safety, as well as citing failures of similar markets in other states. Youngkin also pointed to increased violent crime, psychiatric disorders, and a decline in road safety as reasons for his opposition.
This recent veto mirrors his rejection of a similar bill last year put forth by Democrats, who currently lack the majority needed to override his decision. Although Democrats legalized adult-use cannabis in 2021, the shift to a Republican-controlled government has halted any efforts to implement a retail market.
JM Pedini, the executive director of Virginia NORML, criticized the governor’s actions, stating that Youngkin is prioritizing his political agenda over public safety. He argued that the legislation would have ensured that marijuana sales were conducted through licensed dispensaries for individuals aged 21 and older, rather than allowing unregulated sales from corner stores and smoke shops. Pedini emphasized that the vetoes jeopardize the health and safety of both consumers and children, benefitting the illicit market that has grown during Youngkin’s administration.
In his veto, Governor Youngkin described the illegal cannabis market in Virginia as “pervasive and dangerous.” However, advocates for retail cannabis maintain that not allowing regulated sales only encourages the illegal market to thrive. He drew a comparison between marijuana and opioids, asserting that controlled substances require strict regulation and medical consultation to minimize their risks.
Youngkin concluded his statement by expressing skepticism about the possibility of creating a safe and regulated marketplace for cannabis, suggesting that instead, the state should address enforcement discrepancies. As Youngkin’s term ends later this year, the future of Virginia’s retail cannabis market remains uncertain, especially if another candidate opposed to cannabis takes office.
