Bill > SB542

This bill establishes a framework for a retail marijuana market in Virginia, with no retail sales permitted before January 1, 2027, and mandates the consolidation of the Virginia Cannabis Control Authority (CCA) into the Virginia Alcoholic Beverage Control Authority (ABC) by January 1, 2028, to form the Virginia Alcoholic Beverage Cannabis Control Authority (ABCCA). Prior to this merger, the CCA will regulate and license the retail market, while the ABC will enforce laws against illegal marijuana sales and distribution. The bill also outlines an implementation plan for the merger, to be submitted by November 15, 2026, to relevant legislative committees. Additionally, it makes various amendments to existing laws, including changes to the Cannabis Equity Reinvestment Fund, exemptions for certain employees, disclosure requirements for state officers, closed meeting provisions, and definitions related to cannabis. It also introduces new provisions regarding state and tribal relations for marijuana regulation, clarifies lawful industrial hemp production, modifies evidence rules for forensic scientists, and establishes a comprehensive regulatory structure for various marijuana establishments, including cultivation facilities, processing facilities, retail stores, microbusinesses, delivery operators, and testing facilities, with specific licensing, testing, labeling, and tax requirements. The bill also addresses home cultivation, prohibits certain practices by licensees, and sets penalties for violations, while also providing protections for individuals seeking emergency medical attention for overdoses or reporting sexual assault. Furthermore, it includes provisions for the sealing of certain marijuana-related offenses and clarifies the role of the Virginia Department of Education in providing information on marijuana use to students and teachers.

Budget and Finance, Justice

https://lis.virginia.gov/bill-details/20261/SB542