Lawmakers debate potential framework of legalizing marijuana in Virginia Lawmakers debate potential framework of legalizing marijuana in Virginia and last updated 2021-01-19 18:25:42-05 RICHMOND, Va. -- A bill that would legalize the recreational use of marijuana in Virginia and set the framework the potential billion-dollar industry got its first hearing before state lawmakers Tuesday morning. Governor Ralph Northam (D) has publicly backed the effort, which as currently written would allow sales to those 21 and older starting in January 2023. Although many lawmakers and activists expect the legislation to pass this year, what the regulatory framework looks like will be hotly debated in the weeks to come.