SB 2 Marijuana Bill Update

Last week, we told you about the Virginia House of Delegates’ move to decriminalize marijuana possession when they passed House Bill 972. Now, we have an update from the Virginia Senate. On February 11, 2020, the Senate passed SB 2. The Senate’s bill is a little different from the House’s bill to decriminalize: their bill would impose a civil penalty of no more than $50, or 5 hours of community service, for a simple possession of marijuana. However, the Senate’s bill proposes raising the amount of marijuana for a felony possession with intent to distribute marijuana or distribution of marijuana from one-half ounce to one ounce. This bill now goes back to the House for review, and if the House approves the amendments, it will be presented to the Governor, who has previously expressed he would sign such a bill into law.

At Whitestone Young, we want to keep you informed of important changes such as these. Check back here for updates, and we will let you know if this bill becomes law. Until then, please keep in mind that possession of marijuana in Virginia is a criminal offense with serious consequences. If you are charged with this type of offense, an attorney at Whitestone Young can help you navigate the criminal justice system.