Check out the voter guide from our friends at VA NORML!
The last day to vote in the 2021 Virginia General Election is Tuesday, November 2. Virginia has accomplished sweeping cannabis policy reform over the last few years—including legalizing cannabis for adults 21 and older.
While some provisions of the new legalization law, including possession and home cultivation of cannabis, went into effect July 1 of this year, other aspects—such as details of establishing a regulated cannabis market—don’t kick in until 2024.
This year’s election is critical in determining the fate of legalization. Nearly all of the cannabis sales provisions are subject to further approval by the legislature and governor.
Our allies at Virginia NORML have published a voter guide that details where candidates stand on cannabis policy reform. Be sure to check out the voter guide and make a plan to vote!
State legislative races are often close contests that can be decided by just a few votes. Don’t miss out on a chance to decide who will represent you in Richmond and vote on Virginia’s cannabis policy.
Polls are open on Election Day, Tuesday, November 2, from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. Here you can check your voter registration and find your polling location. The last day to vote early in person is Saturday, October 30. You can find more information on voting in Virginia here.
Be sure to share this information with your friends and family in Virginia!
- Take Action: Urge your state legislators to support a compassionate medical cannabis program!
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The future of Virginia’s legalization law is on the ballot November 2!
UPDATE: Virginia Marijuana Decriminalization Forum Rescheduled
The Virginia State Crime Commission has rescheduled its meeting to present its findings on marijuana decriminalization. It’s important that advocates attend this meeting and show that Virginians support sensible marijuana policies.
What: Virginia State Crime Commission public meeting to present its findings on marijuana decriminalization
When: Monday, October 30, at 1 p.m.
Where: House Committee Room, Ground Floor, Room W011, Pocahontas Building, 900 East Maine Street, Richmond, VA
Don’t forget that the Commission is still accepting written comment on marijuana decriminalization. The specific issues it’s examining are available here. Make sure to submit your comments by Friday, August 23, at 5 p.m. You can email them to vsccinfo@vscc.virginia.gov or mail them to:
1111 East Broad Street, Ste. B036
Richmond, VA 23219
Be sure to check out our decriminalization webpage for assistance crafting your comments. Here are some of the best key points to hit:
- Punishing marijuana possession with a fine will save the state money, help eliminate enforcement disparities, and allow police to pursue actual violent criminals.
- Marijuana is safer than alcohol, and marijuana consumers shouldn’t be criminalized for choosing a safer substance.
- Nearly eight in 10 Virginians support replacing marijuana criminal convictions with a fine (decriminalization), and 62% favor ending marijuana prohibition altogether.
Please spread the word to other Virginians who support humane marijuana policies.
Virginia Crime Commission Taking Public Comments on Marijuana Policy
Earlier this year, the Virginia General Assembly empowered the state’s Crime Commission to consider whether Virginia should decriminalize marijuana possession. Now, the commission wants to hear from residents.
Between now and Friday, August 25 at 5 p.m., Virginia residents can send written comments to vsccinfo@vscc.virginia.gov or mail them to:
1111 East Broad Street, Ste. B036
Richmond, VA 23219
Then, on October 5 at 10:00 a.m., the Crime Commission will hold a meeting open to the public where you will have the opportunity to make your voice heard in person. The meeting will take place in Richmond, but the exact location will not be announced until the fall.
Nearly eight in 10 Virginians support replacing marijuana criminal convictions with a fine (decriminalization), and 62% favor ending cannabis prohibition altogether.