SB 115

Bill To End Marijuana Stigma In Childcare System Gets Green Light In Virginia

Virginia lawmakers have unanimously approved a measure that ensures cannabis cannot be used as sole evidence of child abuse or neglect. The legislation seeks to provide protection to parents and guardians and prevent any discriminatory actions related to cannabis use. The bill specifies that a child cannot be considered abused or neglected, and no one can be denied custody or visitation based solely on the fact that they possess or consume legally authorised substances. The legislation was passed by the full Senate after previously getting approval from the Senate Courts of Justice Committee. Virginia became the first southern state to legalise recreational cannabis use in 2021 but has not yet established a framework for the sale of the substance.