John,

2021 could be the year!

If lawmakers move forward when the General Assembly convenes this January, Virginia would become the first state in the South and the 16th state in the U.S. to legalize recreational use of marijuana.

We want to know what you think about this historic step -- do you support the official legalization of marijuana in the Commonwealth?

Millions of Americans and veterans could benefit from being able to access marijuana as one of the only forms of treatment helpful for a range of conditions from PTSD to anxiety, depression, and painful symptoms caused by chemotherapy.

That’s why Elaine co-sponsored and helped pass the MORE Act, which would decriminalize marijuana at the federal level -- an important step towards getting people the care they need.

Legalization would also take necessary action to combat clear racial disparities in our legal system. An ACLU report found that Virginia ranked 7th in the nation amongst racial disparities for marijuana possession, with Black Americans 3.4 times as likely to be arrested over white Americans -- despite similar rates of use.

We want to hear what you think: Is it time to legalize marijuana?

Thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts on this important topic.

-- Team Elaine