3VAC10. Virginia Cannabis Control Authority
VAC AGENCY NO. 10
VRGINIA CANNABIS CONTROL AUTHORITY
AGENCY SUMMARY
The Virginia Cannabis Control Authority ("CCA" or "authority") is responsible for the regulation of cannabis in the Commonwealth pursuant to Chapter 6 (§ 4.1-600 et seq.) of Title 4.1 of the Code of Virginia. This mission includes regulatory oversight and control of the Commonwealth's medical cannabis program and potential regulation of any future adult-use retail market created by the General Assembly.
Pursuant to Chapter 6 (§ 4.1-600 et seq.) of Title 4.1 of the Code of Virginia, the authority is an independent political subdivision of the Commonwealth, exclusive of the legislative, executive, or judicial branches of state government. A five-person board of directors guides and is ultimately responsible for the governance of the authority. A chief executive officer manages the day-to-day work of the CCA. The Governor appoints and the General Assembly confirms both the board and the CEO. A career, nonpolitical staff of employees reports to the CEO and, via the CEO, to the board.
The CCA is advised by the Cannabis Public Health Advisory Council ("advisory council), a 21-member advisory group comprised of health experts. The governor and General Assembly appoint members of the advisory council and the Secretary of Health and Human Resources chairs the group. The advisory council's responsibilities include assessing and monitoring public health issues, trends, and impacts related to cannabis.
In addition to its rulemaking and regulatory enforcement roles, the CCA is responsible for creating and disseminating guidance and other resources on how to engage with cannabis legally and safely. The CCA's public health and safety responsibilities also include development and implementation of a safe driving campaign that highlights the dangers of drug-impaired driving.
Regulations are available at the CCA's internet address: https://www.cca.virginia.gov/.
Rev. 7/2024