Virginia

The Highs and Lows of Virginia's Latest Marijuana Legislation

Published

2 years ago

January 16, 2024

The Highs and Lows of Virginia's Latest Marijuana Legislation

Last Wednesday, the Virginia General Assembly kicked off its 2024 session, now under the fresh leadership of a Democratic majority in both chambers and one of the first things we want to mention is new bill, HB 698, introduced by Del. Paul Krizek (D) and backed by Sen. Adam Ebbin (D), aimed at legalizing marijuana sales. This move is a big deal, especially since Virginia already said ‘yes’ to using, having, and growing a bit of cannabis for adults back in 2021 but faces hurdles getting passed, so here we are again. Now, let’s break down what’s good and not-so-good about this bill:

THE UPSIDE:

Moving Forward with Legalization: Sen. Ebbin is pretty upbeat about this bill, saying something along the lines of, “It’s time for this sensible approach.” It’s like the state is riding a wave towards more open cannabis laws.

Economic Boost: This bill could be a game-changer for the economy. It’s not just about letting current medical marijuana shops sell to more people, but also about giving a leg up to new small businesses. This could mean more jobs and more money flowing in Virginia.

Keeping Things in Check: Having rules in place means better control of who’s growing and selling cannabis. This could make things safer for everyone and might even shrink the black market.

Cash Flow from Taxes: Imagine what a 6 percent tax on marijuana sales could do. We’re talking extra money for the state and the city of Richmond, which could help fund all sorts of public projects and initiatives.

Fair Play with Microbusinesses: The bill wants to give a fair shot to veterans and folks from areas that got the short end of the stick in past marijuana policing. It’s a nod towards fixing historical wrongs.

THE DOWNSIDE:

Not Enough on Equity?: Critics like Chelsea Higgs Wise of Marijuana Justice think the bill might miss the mark on helping those who were previously penalized for marijuana by focusing on military veterans saying the bill could do more for social justice.

Big Fish Eating the Little Ones?: There’s worry that letting the existing medical marijuana players start early might make it tough for the new guys to catch up, possibly leading to a less diverse market.

Political Roadblocks: Governor Glenn Youngkin might just say ‘no’ to this bill. That’s a big potential snag, showing just how tricky the politics around marijuana can be.

A Complex Regulatory Web: Setting up and running all these new rules won’t be easy. It’ll take a lot of effort to make sure everything’s running smoothly and fairly.
Health and Safety on the Radar: With legalization comes concern about public health and safety, like keeping cannabis away from kids and dealing with issues like driving under the influence.

So, there you have it – HB 698 in a nutshell. It’s a mix of hope for economic growth and social equity, but with a side of political drama and practical challenges. As this bill makes its way through the ropes, it’s definitely going to stir up a variety of opinions, just like it’s happening across the country with cannabis laws.

Source reporting by Marijuana Moment

Since 2005, the dedicated team at RVA Magazine, known as RVA Staff, has been delivering the cultural news that matters in Richmond, VA. This talented group of professionals is committed to keeping you informed about the events and happenings in the city.

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Virginia

West Virginia State Police searching for missing woman last seen in Kingwood

Published

7 hours ago

March 29, 2026

Press Room

West Virginia State Police searching for missing woman last seen in Kingwood

Shania Moser (WVSP Image)

KINGWOOD, W.Va. (WBOY) — The West Virginia State Police are asking communities to keep an eye out for a missing woman last seen in Preston County.

According to a Facebook post by the WVSP, 29-year-old Shania Moser was last seen Thursday, March 26, at around 11 a.m. in the Albright Avenue area of Kingwood.

Moser is described in the post as having blonde hair and brown eyes, being 5′ 2″ tall, and was last seen wearing a purple hooded sweatshirt, dark pants and white Nike shoes.

At the time she was last seen she was driving a 2015 blue Ford Escape with a West Virginia registration reading 1G5016.

Those who have any information on the whereabouts of Moser are urged to call the WVSP at 304-329-1101.

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Virginia

West Virginia Lottery results: See winning numbers for Powerball, Lotto America on March 28, 2026

Published

19 hours ago

March 29, 2026

Press Room

The results are in for the West Virginia Lottery’s draw games on Saturday, March 28, 2026.

Here’s a look at winning numbers for each game on March 28.

Winning Powerball numbers from March 28 drawing

11-42-43-59-61, Powerball: 25, Power Play: 4

Check Powerball payouts and previous drawings here.

Winning Lotto America numbers from March 28 drawing

15-29-30-32-35, Star Ball: 09, ASB: 05

Check Lotto America payouts and previous drawings here.

Winning Daily 3 numbers from March 28 drawing

0-7-1

Check Daily 3 payouts and previous drawings here.

Winning Daily 4 numbers from March 28 drawing

2-7-3-5

Check Daily 4 payouts and previous drawings here.

Feeling lucky? Explore the latest lottery news & results

When are the West Virginia Lottery drawings held?

Powerball: 11 p.m. ET on Monday, Wednesday and Saturday.
Mega Millions: 10:59 p.m. ET Tuesday and Friday.
Lotto America: 10:15 p.m. ET on Monday, Wednesday and Saturday.
Daily 3, 4: 6:59 p.m. ET Monday through Saturday.
Cash 25: 6:59 p.m. ET Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday.

This results page was generated automatically using information from TinBu and a template written and reviewed by a USA Today editor. You can send feedback using this form.

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Virginia

WRIC ABC 8News wins awards at AP Broadcasters awards for continuous coverage, special program

Published

1 day ago

March 28, 2026

Press Room

WRIC ABC 8News wins awards at AP Broadcasters awards for continuous coverage, special program

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — At Virginia’s Associated Press (AP) Broadcasters awards on Saturday, 8News received seven awards, including three first-place awards. Our team was recognized for our coverage on the Waverly Two and special programs during Black History Month.

On Saturday, March 28, 8News attended the 2026 Virginia AP Broadcasters Award, which recognizes broadcast news operations in Virginia and West Virginia.

News anchor Deanna Allbrittin and Digital Producer Ryan Nadeau were honored for their continuous coverage of the Waverly Two, two men who were found not guilty but were still sentenced to life in prison.

We were also awarded first place in the Best Special Stream category for “Riverfront Rhythm” and Excellence in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion for “What is Black?“, a special program during Black History Month from 8New’s Lindsey West.

Additionally, MaryCatherine Price received second place for Best Daily Stream for her podcast, “The Rundown.” It is a podcast that gives viewers an inside look into the newsroom.

Our Taking Action team was also a finalist for Best Multi-Platform Story for our continuous coverage of “Homeowner Horrors” throughout Central Virginia. We were also a finalist for Best News Promo on the “Richmond Tax Delinquency.”

Lastly, our very own Nolan Knight earned second place for Best Sports Anchor for his groundbreaking coverage on local sports in Virginia. He was also recognized at the 2025 AP Broadcast Awards for his coverage of Virginia sports.

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