Virginia’s Incoming Governor Lists Priorities She Wants In Marijuana Sales Legalization Bill If She’s Going To Sign It

OG article by Kyle Jaeger

December 30, 2025

Virginia's incoming Democratic Governor Abigail Spanberger, who supports cannabis reform, outlined key requirements for a marijuana sales legalization bill in an interview with WDBJ7 published on Friday. She emphasized the need for strong labeling on cannabis products to inform consumers about potency, similar to alcohol regulations, stating, “A consumer should always know what they are buying... you know what percentage alcohol that beer is.” Spanberger also insisted that tax revenue from sales be allocated toward regulation and education, adding, “the revenue needs to be part of ensuring facilitating that regulation... invested in education.” Currently, adult possession and cultivation of marijuana are legal since 2021, but retail sales remain unavailable due to vetoes by outgoing Governor Glenn Youngkin (R) of legislative proposals for a commercial market. Spanberger highlighted ongoing confusion in the "gray space" of partial legality, which affects medicinal users and personal possession. Meanwhile, the legislature's Joint Commission recommended legalizing recreational sales for the 2026 session, Senate President Pro Tempore Sen. Louise Lucas (D) filed a bill for resentencing relief on past cannabis convictions, and the Virginia Department of Labor and Industry issued guidance on workplace protections for cannabis consumers.