Virginia Lawmakers Advance Recreational Marijuana, Psychedelic Therapy Bills

Virginia's legislature has advanced bills to legalize and regulate recreational marijuana sales, with the House of Delegates voting 53-46 in favor of HB 2485, following a Senate approval of a companion bill. Despite the progress, Governor Glenn Youngkin has indicated intentions to veto the legislation, echoing his stance from last year. Advocates argue that legalizing marijuana would diminish the $3 billion illegal market, promoting public health and safety, while opponents express concerns about youth access and the influence of the marijuana industry. Concurrently, Virginia's Senate unanimously passed a bill to establish a council studying psychedelic-assisted therapy for veterans, highlighting the need for further research on alternatives for mental health treatment. In Indiana, a Republican-led initiative to legalize recreational marijuana faces skepticism within the legislature, but proponents emphasize the importance of moving towards a regulated market without a prior medical program. The dynamics surrounding marijuana legislation in both states reflect a growing conversation about drug policy reform and public safety.