Virginia Gov. Abigail Spanberger and Democratic lawmakers have reached a long-awaited compromise to establish a regulated recreational marijuana market, set to launch on July 1, 2027. The agreement, detailed in the state’s pending budget, aims to replace the illicit cannabis trade with a structured system emphasizing public safety and consumer protection.

Under the plan, retail licenses will be capped at 350, with a starting state tax of 6% on cannabis products. Adults aged 21 and over will be allowed to possess up to two ounces. Revenue will support education, public health programs, and equity initiatives for communities affected by past drug enforcement policies.

The Virginia Cannabis Control Authority will begin accepting business applications in early 2027. More details are available in the original report from Yahoo News.