Virginia 2024 Regular Session

Virginia Senate Bill SB448

Introduced
1/9/24  
Refer
1/9/24  
Report Pass
1/26/24  
Report Pass
1/31/24  
Report Pass
2/8/24  
Engrossed
2/12/24  
Refer
2/15/24  
Report Pass
2/22/24  
Engrossed
2/28/24  
Engrossed
2/28/24  
Enrolled
3/8/24  

Caption

Cannabis control; establishes a framework for creation of a retail marijuana market, penalties.

Impact

The bill appears to significantly impact existing state laws surrounding marijuana, as it creates new regulatory bodies and modifies or repeals previous statutes that addressed marijuana-related offenses. Central to the bill is the establishment of the Virginia Cannabis Control Authority, which will oversee the licensing and regulation of businesses in the marijuana industry. This authority not only regulates production and sales but also aims to address issues related to social equity and economic development in historically marginalized communities.

Summary

SB448 establishes a comprehensive legal framework for the creation of a retail marijuana market in Virginia. The bill outlines the processes for licensing marijuana establishments, including retail stores, processors, and cultivators, while also detailing penalties for violations within the industry. This legislation was intended to regulate the sale and distribution of marijuana products and ensure compliance with public health standards, thereby promoting responsible use and safety for consumers.

Sentiment

General sentiment towards SB448 has been mixed, reflecting the broader societal debates surrounding marijuana legalization. Supporters argue that it creates a much-needed regulatory framework that legitimizes the marijuana market and safeguards public health. Conversely, opponents express concerns about potential overregulation and the effectiveness of the implementation of the social equity aspects of the bill, suggesting that there may be barriers to entry for marginalized communities it aims to support.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the challenge of balancing public health considerations with economic opportunities presented by the legalization of marijuana. There are also debates surrounding the effectiveness of the regulations designed to promote social equity within the marijuana industry, as many stakeholders question whether existing mechanisms will adequately address the historic injustices related to drug enforcement. Furthermore, the logistical challenges of rolling out a new compliance and inspection regime add to the complexity of successfully implementing SB448.

Companion Bills

VA HB698

Similar To Cannabis control; establishes a framework for creation of a retail marijuana market, penalties.

VA SB423

Similar To Cannabis control; retail market, penalties.

Previously Filed As

VA HB1750

Cannabis control; establishes framework for creation of retail marijuana market.

VA HB1464

Cannabis control; establishes framework for creation of retail market, transitional sale, penalties.

VA SB1133

Cannabis control; retail market, transitional sales, regulated hemp products, penalties.

VA SB391

Cannabis control; retail market.

VA HB1597

Medical cannabis program; transition from Board of Pharmacy to Virginia Cannabis Control Authority.

VA HB1598

Medical cannabis program; transition from Bd. of Pharmacy to Va. Cannabis Control Authority, report.

VA SB788

Medical cannabis program; transition from Board of Pharmacy to Virginia Cannabis Control Authority.

VA HB1973

Industrial hemp; selling or offering for sale a topical hemp product, etc.

VA HB2294

Industrial hemp; regulated hemp products, etc.

VA SB903

Industrial hemp; regulated hemp products, etc.

Similar Bills

VA HB698

Cannabis control; establishes a framework for creation of a retail marijuana market, penalties.

VA HB2485

Cannabis control; establishes framework for creating retail market, penalties.

VA SB970

Cannabis control; establishes framework for creating retail market, penalties.

VA HB1750

Cannabis control; establishes framework for creation of retail marijuana market.

VA HB773

Marijuana; modifies criminal penalties.

VA HB287

Cannabis; replaces the term "marijuana" throughout the Cannabis Control Act.

VA SB1133

Cannabis control; retail market, transitional sales, regulated hemp products, penalties.