Bill > HJR497

This joint resolution establishes a 10-member legislative joint commission to oversee Virginia's transition to a retail cannabis market, created in response to the state's 2021 marijuana legalization that allowed personal possession and cultivation but did not fully implement a regulatory framework. The commission will include six members from the House of Delegates and four from the Senate, appointed from specific committees and elected with leadership roles balanced between chambers. The commission's key responsibilities include overseeing the Virginia Cannabis Control Authority's administration, monitoring cannabis-related laws and regulations, tracking industry trends and impacts, and examining potential improvements to the medical cannabis program. The joint commission will receive administrative and research support from legislative offices, can request assistance from state agencies, and will meet as needed, with a requirement that recommendations can be blocked if a majority from either legislative chamber votes against them. The chairman must submit annual executive summaries to the General Assembly and Governor, detailing the commission's interim activities, and the commission is set to expire on July 1, 2028.

Budget and Finance

https://lis.virginia.gov/bill-details/20251/HJ497