As the great marijuana debate continues to rage across our country, many states have started to sway in favor of the little green plant. Perhaps one of the best examples of change is the 2018 midterm election, where three states officially turned the tide of the debate. While we are familiar with the powerhouses on the Pacific Coast (like California, Alaska, Washington, and Oregon), other states on the Atlantic Coast have also started to wave the proverbial pot flag. However, for every Massachusetts and Maine, there is a Virginia. So how does the Old Dominion (so to speak) handle the fragrant, mind-altering herb called marijuana? Let’s take a closer look at some facts about cannabis laws in Virginia.
First Off
In our nation’s history, Virginia was the first English colonial occupation that was set up on the mainland of North America (hence its name “Old Dominion) and has often been referred to as the “Mother of Presidents,” due to the fact that eight U.S. presidents were born here (more than any other state in the U.S.). While Virginia attempted to join the Confederacy during the Civil War, it ultimately remained in the Union, and this action ultimately resulted in the founding of West Virginia. Famous figures like George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and Robert E. Lee shared the state culture with other areas of the country, leading to further developments with the neoclassical style. Unfortunately, Virginia is the least artistic state in the country, procuring a small portion of the budget to fund museums and fine art festivals.
Pot Proceedings
While Virginians overwhelmingly supported pot legalization by 86% (medical weed) and 62% (recreational weed), the little green plant is still 100% illegal in the Old Dominion. Pursuing the practices of other conservative states, Virginia does offer limited medical marijuana laws, allowing patients with epilepsy to consume low-THC cannabis oils (House Bill 1445). Nevertheless, penalties for pot possession are still extremely strict because lawmakers have not yet decriminalized the drug. Possession of less than a half ounce can result in a 30-day jail sentence or a fine of $500. However, individuals who are charged with selling marijuana can face 5 years in prison or can be put away for life.
Always remember that marijuana does not have control over your life. You do. Are you suffering from a substance use disorder or a severe form of addiction? Do you have a friend or family member suffering from one or more of these debilitating illnesses? If you do, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our counselors and healthcare experts are ready to walk you through every step of the detox and withdrawal process and rehabilitation and guide you towards living a happier, healthier, and freer lifestyle. While the road to recovery might not be an easy road to travel, we promise to help you every step of the way. Take the first step to stay fit, healthy, and safe.
The time for you to take back control of your life is now. If you are interested in one of our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how to overcome your drug abuse or addiction troubles today.
