As the Virginia General Assembly continues to debate the future of cannabis regulation, a key subcommittee is set to review a proposal today that seeks to treat underage cannabis possession through a lens of restorative justice rather than criminal enforcement.
House Bill 1432, patroned by Delegate Leslie Chambers Mehta, aims to establish legal parity between the penalties for underage cannabis use and underage drinking. Currently, young people in the Commonwealth face a disproportionate legal landscape for cannabis possession compared to alcohol. Delegate Mehta’s bill would shift the response for those under 21 toward a service-oriented model.
Under the proposed legislation, a first-time violation would result in a written warning. Subsequent violations would trigger warnings accompanied by informational resources on community services, while a third violation would lead to an optional referral for social services. Proponents argue that this civil framework is essential to preventing the long-term consequences of a criminal record for youth, focusing on education and support rather than punitive legal measures.
The House Courts of Justice-Criminal Subcommittee is scheduled to review the bill this afternoon. Virginians are being urged to submit testimony.
