Virginia shops could start selling marijuana by next fall, under a proposal to create a regulated retail marketplace unveiled by state lawmakers Tuesday afternoon.

The Joint Commission on the Future of Cannabis Sales has worked on drafting a plan ahead of the General Assembly session scheduled to start in mid-January. While the proposal could change as it advances through the legislative process, state lawmakers said it creates a path forward for cannabis to be sold in stores.

Virginia legalized possession of marijuana for adults in 2021, but Gov. Glenn Youngkin has vetoed measures aimed at creating a legal marketplace several times. But Governor-elect Abigail Spanberger has vowed to sign legislation to create the retail market if it reaches her desk.

“It’s really finally establishi

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