As the nation celebrated the cannabis holiday 4/20, President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris took the opportunity to express their support for marijuana law reform, reigniting hopes for policy changes in Virginia and across the country. In a series of posts on social media, Biden and Harris acknowledged the need to address the nation's outdated and often unjust approach to cannabis. Biden stated, "Sending people to prison just for possessing marijuana has upended too many lives and incarcerated people for conduct that many states no longer prohibit. It's time that we right these ..read more

In a groundbreaking decision, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is expected to reclassify marijuana from its current status as a Schedule I controlled substance to the less restrictive Schedule III category under the Controlled Substances Act (CSA). This move aligns with the recommendation from the U.S.  Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), acknowledging marijuana's potential medical benefits and lower risk of abuse compared to drugs like heroin and methamphetamine. Virginia's Legalization Landscape Virginia became the first ..read more

Virginia has entered a transitional period regarding marijuana laws that leaves many employers unsure of their rights and responsibilities. Medical marijuana has been legal since 2020, but the planned rollout of recreational adult-use keeps getting pushed back, creating a confusing landscape. Here's what Virginia businesses need to know in 2024. Medical Marijuana in the Workplace First, it's important for employers to understand Virginia's current medical marijuana program. Approved patients with qualifying conditions can legally obtain marijuana products from licensed dispensaries after re ..read more

In a move hailed by marijuana advocates, Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin has signed legislation prohibiting public employers in the state from discriminating against workers solely for their legal medical marijuana use. The new law, which takes effect July 1, 2024, closes a loophole in Virginia's existing medical marijuana employment protections that previously excluded public sector workers like firefighters, teachers and civil servants. It ensures those employees can no longer be disciplined or denied jobs just for being certified medical marijuana patients. "This is a long overdue vict ..read more

At the heart of cannabis culture lies a celebrated yearly occasion: the 20th of April. Amidst the myriad of tales surrounding its formations, certain myths have entrenched themselves as truths. From claims that "420" is police code for "marijuana in progress" to the notion of there being precisely 420 chemicals in cannabis, the reality behind this hazy holiday may surprise many marijuana enthusiasts. Delve deeper below to uncover the authentic origins of 420. A Pioneering Tale from California's High Schoolers Contrary to the elaborate myths, the genesis of 420 traces back to a modest group ..read more

Efforts to launch legal adult-use marijuana sales in Virginia hit a major roadblock last month when Republican Governor Glenn Youngkin vetoed bipartisan legislation that would have regulated and taxed a new marijuana retail market. In the aftermath, leading Democratic senators say it will likely be 2027 at the earliest before recreational marijuana shops can open their doors statewide. The veto dashes hopes that Virginia could soon join the growing list of states allowing commercial marijuana sales. Instead, it sets the stage for years of further political battles over the issue before a fu ..read more

For medical marijuana patients in Virginia's Blue Ridge region, accessing legal marijuana products just became much more convenient. RISE, one of the state's leading dispensary operators, has relocated their Lynchburg facility to a larger, more modern location on Old Forest Road. This move allows them to significantly expand inventory, staffing and patient services as Virginia's medical program continues its steady growth. The new 6,500 square foot RISE dispensary held its official grand opening on March 15th, marking an exciting milestone for both the company and the Lynchburg community it ..read more

Virginia's path toward marijuana legalization has been a complex journey, marked by progress in some areas while facing setbacks in others. Recently, Governor Glenn Youngkin's stance on marijuana legislation has become a focal point of this ongoing debate.  Despite the Commonwealth's strides towards decriminalizing and legalizing the use of marijuana, the Governor's recent decision to veto bills that would legalize recreational marijuana sales has reignited discussions about the future of marijuana in Virginia. The Governor's Veto Governor Youngkin's veto is not just a singular decisi ..read more

As the calendar turns to a new year, it ushers in a wave of new laws and regulations in Virginia. Starting January 1, 2024, the Virginia Cannabis Control Authority will assume control of the Commonwealth's medical marijuana program. This transition signifies a significant shift in the state's approach to marijuana regulation, aiming for a more unified and comprehensive system to oversee the industry.  There's a twist in the tale—the initial plan to kickstart recreational marijuana retail sales on the same date has hit a roadblock. Let's delve into the details of this delay and what it ..read more

As the landscape of marijuana legislation evolves, Virginia has emerged as a progressive state in embracing the potential benefits of medical marijuana. If you find yourself wondering, "Should I try medical marijuana?" you're not alone. This comprehensive guide aims to provide you with the essential information to make an informed decision about venturing into the realm of medical marijuana in Virginia. Understanding Virginia's Medical Marijuana Program Virginia's medical marijuana program represents a significant step forward in providing patients with alternative and holistic healthcare o ..read more