Virginia governor vetoes adult-use sales bills

We have disappointing news to share: Gov. Abigail Spanberger has vetoed HB642/SB542, the bill that would have finally given Virginia’s adults safe, legal access to cannabis. 

This veto is a setback — but it is not the end.

HB542/SB642 represented five years of hard work by advocates, lawmakers, and everyday citizens who believe in sensible, regulated cannabis policy. A legal sales framework would have generated critical tax revenue for communities and helped eliminate the unregulated illicit market. Gov. Spanberger's veto denies Virginia these benefits and ignores the clear will of the people.

If you live in Virginia, let Gov. Spanberger know you disagree with her veto of cannabis sales!

The governor reneged on a campaign promise to voters. Her preferred style of non-engagement during the General Assembly process seems intentional, and will result in at least another year of prohibition.

In her requested amendments to the bill passed by both chambers, Gov. Spanberger basically re-wrote the bill — including by amending in recriminalization of conduct that is currently a civil offense. The original bill did not change those penalties, which have been working just fine for five years. This was not part of the sales bills. The governor needs to do a better job at working with the General Assembly and remember they are an equal partner in running the Commonwealth of Virginia.

We hope that the General Assembly will stand strong against recriminalization, while working with the governor on less problematic changes to finally deliver on legal cannabis next year.