Cannabis is officially legal in Virginia, but there are certain regulations that may cause confusion. However, since the epidemic, many virtual events have been organized and are set to take place. In this post, you'll learn about many types of cannabis-related events, conferences, and other meetings.
Cannabis Status in Virginia
Let's start by talking about the legal status of cannabis in Virginia. Medical cannabis is allowed in Virginia for qualifying illnesses, but adult, or recreational, cannabis usage is still prohibited until June 30, 2021. Adults 21 and older will be capable of having up to 1 ounce or 28 grams of marijuana and grow up to four plants per home after that.
In July of 2020, Virginia decriminalized marijuana, making the maximum punishment for having up to 1 ounce of the drug a $25 fine that does not appear on a person's criminal record.
But where did the legalization of cannabis in Virginia begin? In July of 2020, Virginia decriminalized marijuana, making the maximum punishment for having up to 1 ounce of the drug a $25 fine that does not appear on a person's criminal record.
The General Assembly passed a measure in 2017 that allowed for restricted cannabis production and dispensing, as well as access to CBD or THCA oil for patients with intractable epilepsy. Gov. Ralph Northam signed a law in 2018 that expanded access to medicinal marijuana to more Virginians by enabling physicians to recommend it to any patient who may benefit from it.
Furthermore, Virginia's legislature enacted Senate Bill 1406 and House Bill 2312, making it the first southern state to legalize cannabis and the fourth to do so through legislation. The law was amended to allow possession of up to an ounce of cannabis and the production of up to four plants per home beginning July 1, 2021, rather than 2024, as originally planned.
The Cannabis Control Authority and other entities formed by the bill will have time to build the required framework for regulating and supervising cultivation, production, distribution, and retail sales before the rest of the bill takes effect on July 1, 2024.
Events in Virginia
NCIA Cannabis Industry Business Conference
The #IndustryEssentials educational webinar series is NCIA's new digital platform, which includes a range of programs to give you relevant, engaging, and important information when and where you need it most. All NCIA #IndustryEssentials training webinars are free of charge for NCIA members.
The cost of a non-member pass is $15. NCIA's Catalyst Conversations Series is an intensive webinar series designed to provide Social Equity Scholarship program participants the chance to network and learn vital knowledge that will help them succeed in the cannabis business.
This panel will feature veteran operators, consultants, and technical help providers who will provide guiding principles and advice on how to get started, whether you want to apply for a license or establish a side company.
Cannabis and COVID-19 - Research and Implications
This online conference will bring together academics and clinicians from all around the world who are researching the benefits of specific cannabis strains and mixes on COVID-19 and the impact the virus has on medicinal cannabis patients and adult cannabis users.
CannaCon
CannaCon will bring together like-minded people to debate the latest industry developments, bringing together leading founders and businesses with financiers and professionals. Discover the next era of cannabis trends and consumer products, as well as the trends that will shape the market in 2019 and beyond.
CannaCon is committed to forming and developing long-term relationships in the cannabis business. Its mission is to provide a global platform for cannabis businesses, entrepreneurs, investors, and community partners to showcase industry products, experts, and innovations, as well as to cultivate business values within the cannabis industry through education and responsible community participation.
Cannabis News Updates in Virginia
Marijuana seeds are not allowed to buy or sell in Virginia, but they are lawful to share. A civil penalty of not more than $25 will be imposed on anybody discovered in possession of more than 1 ounce of cannabis but not more than 1 pound.
A felony prosecution can be filed against anyone who is found in possession of more than one pound of marijuana. Cannabis-related items are only available for purchase or sale at dispensaries affiliated with the state's medicinal marijuana program. The state legislation that governs possession with the intent to distribute is still in effect.
So, while the new legislation doesn't specify how much pot an adult can have at home, anyone who has any amount of marijuana with the intent to distribute it can be prosecuted.
Weed cannot be consumed or brought in cars in open or easily accessible packages by drivers or passengers. It should be kept in a secured trunk or back compartment, according to advocates.
The Bottom Line
Recently, Virginia legalizes the medicinal and recreational use of cannabis. However, the laws and regulations are quite confusing, so it would be best to always check on the rules of every locations you want to visit, specially when it comes in cannabis use. This way, you can prevent being punished by the law.