Bipartisan Victory: Virginia Advances Bills Protecting Firefighters, Teachers Who Use Medical Cannabis
Bills that would allow public-sector employees in Virginia to use medical cannabis without fear of losing their jobs are gaining support in the state legislature. HB 149 and SB 391, introduced by Delegate Dan Helmer and Senator Stella Pekarsky respectively, aim to afford the same rights to public-sector employees as medical cannabis patients. HB 149 was approved by the House in January and was built upon a bill sponsored by Helmer three years ago which aimed to protect medical cannabis patients. Under the state's current medical cannabis program, cannabis products with a range from CBD to 10 mg of THC per dose are legal. SB 391 has been referred to an opposing chamber for further consideration. Both bills come as the state is in the process of exploring the legalization of recreational cannabis sales.
