With a new Democratic majority in the state legislature, Virginia Attorney General Mark Herring is hoping to make major reforms to the state's cannabis laws.
Herring, who is hosting a cannabis summit on December 11, told Cheddar on Tuesday he is bringing together legislators and experts in an effort to push forward his calls for reform.
"I'm really encouraged about the prospect of actually passing decriminalization in Virginia and the prospect of actually passing a plan to move to legal and regulated adult use," he said.
Herring is hopeful that by providing lawmakers a space to ask questions and address concerns with experts, as well as individuals from states that have already legalized or decriminalized marijuana use, his state can move towards passing new legislation.
Marijuana arrests in Virginia hit a 20-year high in 2018, and enforcement costs the state more than $80 million annually, Herring said.
"In Virginia, an arrest and a criminal conviction stays with you your whole life … That's not fair," he said, noting the disproportionate number of black Virginians arrested for marijuana possession.
But he says he is confident Virginia can move forward "in a historic way."
With back-to-school season here, it will most likely be difficult for the kids to make that transition from summer activities. Here are some tips for them to assimilate to academics.
A New Jersey family found a message in a bottle while picking up trash along the coastline that was all the way from Ireland.
A sick baby gorilla was nursed back to health in Australia thanks to a zookeeper.
A list of the best and worst states to drive has been released.
Hundreds of volunteers took part in a two-day search for the mythical Loch Ness monster in Scotland.
From hanging ice pops to root beer floats, Andrea Correale of Elegant Affairs shows off some delightful snack ideas for your Labor Day Party.
Danny Seo, editor-in-chief of Naturally Danny Seo, magazine suggests some products you can consider if you want to make more Earth-friendly purchases.
Tennis fans head to the U.S. Open for the competition, but these days they gladly stay for the food.
During the ongoing strike, actors are making money on the Cameo app, which lets fans pay for a short, personalized clip from their favorite celebrities.
Chef Joshua Resnick offers knife skills tips that will help you cook better food that looks professional.
