Va.: Gov. Ralph Northam says “it’s time to legalize”

Write your state legislators today and urge them to support ending cannabis prohibition in Virginia!

Virginia made great strides on cannabis policy in 2020, and some political leaders are calling for the legislature to take the next step and pass a legalization bill in 2021. On November 16, Gov. Ralph Northam came out strongly in support of ending cannabis prohibition, saying “it’s time to legalize.”

“Our Commonwealth has an opportunity to be the first state in the South to take this step, and we will lead with a focus on equity, public health, and public safety,” Northam said.

On the same day, the Joint Legislative Audit and Review Commission (JLARC) came out with a detailed study of cannabis legalization policies. Then, on November 30, a working group published detailed recommendations for legislation to be considered by the legislature in 2021.

It’s encouraging to see that the governor and many legislators want Virginia to move forward in 2021, but some elected officials still aren’t sure it is a good idea. If you live in Virginia, please write your state legislators today and urge them to support ending cannabis prohibition!

Finally, if you’d like to learn more about plans to legalize cannabis in Virginia and how you can help, our allies at Virginia NORML are hosting a series of important virtual conversations with advocates this Wednesday and Thursday, featuring speakers such as Gov. Northam and Attorney General Mark Herring. Click here to register for the event.