Lynchburg state lawmakers split on if secondhand smoke marijuana law would pass

OG article by Hayden Robertson

November 19, 2025

Lynchburg, Virginia, City Council is pushing legislation to protect children from secondhand marijuana smoke by prohibiting smoking in enclosed spaces with minors, classifying violations as child abuse or neglect and elevating penalties to a Class 1 misdemeanor. The proposal stems from teacher reports of affected children arriving at school impaired and needing detoxification, hindering learning. Mayor Larry Taylor and Councilwoman Stephanie Reed champion it as common-sense protection. Republican State Senator Mark Peake and Delegate Wendell Walker, speaking at a legislative event on November 18, 2025, expressed skepticism about passage in the Democrat-controlled General Assembly, citing progressive shifts and past reluctance to create new crimes. Walker noted a prior similar bill died quickly, though medical evidence may help. Peake plans to introduce it, emphasizing child safety. Lawmakers stressed bipartisan cooperation for local priorities amid the council's 18-item 2026 agenda covering public safety and quality of life. Session begins January 14, 2026.