CAPE CHARLES, Va. — At the Eastern Shore Chamber of Commerce’s latest Eggs and Issues Breakfast, Del. Rob Bloxom offered a preview of what he expects in the upcoming General Assembly session, telling business and community leaders that a legal retail marijuana market is increasingly likely — and that rural Virginia could face major political consequences if a proposed redistricting amendment advances.
Bloxom said lawmakers appear poised to approve a regulated retail cannabis market with both state and local taxes attached. He cautioned, however, that the legislation being discussed may offer “little to no” ability for localities to opt out, potentially limiting the Eastern Shore’s say in whether dispensaries operate within their borders.
The delegate also noted that several business-related regulatory bills previously vetoed by the governor could resurface in the new session, though he did not specify which measures might return.
On electoral issues, Bloxom reiterated his opposition to a proposed constitutional amendment that would shift congressional redistricting authority back to the General Assembly. He warned that the change could lead to drastic rewrites of Virginia’s congressional boundaries, diminish rural representation, and cost the state significant seniority in Washington — including influence on key committees.
Bloxom’s remarks come as lawmakers prepare for what is expected to be a politically charged session in Richmond, with tax policy, regulatory reform and election law all likely to take center stage.

How can it be taxed if its still illegal Federally. My understanding is these dispensaries cannot have bank accounts due to that they are Federally controlled. And if thats the case how can any form of credit or debit card be used for payment. Since this country is wanting another form of mind , body adjustment type it would make just as much sense to legalize prostitution male, female. That would make it safer and cleaner for those in the industry plus generate another tax base income as is done in Nevada .
A regulated retail cannabis market should have been setup within the year following the legalization of cannabis… It was foolish for cannabis to be legal with no legal way to purchase it within the state, allowing four years of tax money going to border states/D.C. where cannabis is legal instead of our own coffers… Cannabis dispensaries should have the same restrictions as bars or state-run liquor stores as to location, ie, distance from churches, schools, or halfway houses and alcohol/drug treatment locations, not allowing localities to ban cannabis stores if they have bars or state-run liquor stores within their borders, looking at you Cape Charles, Tasley, and Chincoteague… Also, we should look at using these taxes as a way to reduce or eliminate personal property tax rates!!!
Grow your own.
That’s what we need…. More smoked up Virginians. Although that would be good for democrats: more democrat voters… SMDH!!
And don’t forget gun control because they WILL be coming for your guns. They proved that as late as the last session!! Fortunately, Gov. Youngkin vetoed most all of those bills.
Hey, Bill
Chill. There is a middle ground.
You are stereotyping.