Virginia

Virginia legalized medical cannabis in 2018 through HB 1251 (pharmaceutical processor program) and adult-use possession in 2021 via the Virginia Cannabis Control Act, allowing adults 21+ to possess up to one ounce and cultivate up to four plants at home. A regulated retail market was delayed for years. In March 2026, the General Assembly passed a comprehensive retail framework capping licenses at 350, setting a 6% state excise tax with optional 1–3.5% local tax, and requiring existing medical operators to pay $10 million for conversion. Applications open July 1, 2026, with seed-to-sale tracking starting September 1 and retail sales targeted for January 1, 2027. The Virginia Cannabis Control Authority oversees the program. The possession limit increases from one ounce to 2.5 ounces under the new legislation. Governor Spanberger is expected to sign the bill into law.