West Virginia Eyes Cannabis Legalization in Fight Against Fentanyl Crisis

NEW YORK— As West Virginia’s legislative session unfolds, the topics of cannabis legalization and the fentanyl crisis are taking center stage. Senate President Craig Blair, speaking at a press event on January 5, indicated that cannabis could play a role in combating the state’s escalating fentanyl problem, although he was unsure if legalization would occur this year.

Blair’s comments come amidst an opioid crisis that has hit West Virginia particularly hard. The state’s Department of Health and Human Resources reported a spike in overdose deaths, with fentanyl featuring prominently in recent fatalities. In a startling claim, Blair alleged that 70% of cannabis in the state contains fentanyl, underscoring the potential dangers of an unregulated market.

While Blair expressed reservations about immediate legalization, he announced plans to sponsor a bill targeting the manufacture and distribution of illegal fentanyl, aiming to deter dealers with severe penalties.

The push for legalization is gaining traction among other legislators as well. House Minority Leader Sean Hornbuckle voiced support, citing widespread public backing and the potential economic benefits of a regulated cannabis market. He proposed a constitutional amendment to let voters decide on legalization.

West Virginia’s cautious approach to cannabis contrasts with neighboring states. Maryland commenced adult-use cannabis sales in July 2023, generating significant revenue, while Ohio legalized adult-use cannabis in November 2023. Pennsylvania continues its efforts to legalize adult-use cannabis, following medical legalization in 2016. Kentucky is working towards launching its medical cannabis program, and Virginia, despite legalizing adult-use cannabis in 2021, is still grappling with implementing a regulatory framework.

The state’s medical cannabis program, established in 2017, has been slow to start, with the first dispensary opening in November 2021. Efforts to decriminalize cannabis at the city level have met with limited success.

In a notable development, Huntington, West Virginia, saw the opening of its first dispensary, Huntington Gardens, in September 2023. Operated by Ukrainian immigrants Frederick Bartolovic and Kayla McClaskey, the dispensary symbolizes the diverse entrepreneurial spirit within the cannabis industry.

As West Virginia legislators deliberate, the juxtaposition of the burgeoning opioid crisis and the evolving cannabis policies in neighboring states presents a complex backdrop. The state’s future steps in cannabis legislation could significantly impact its public health landscape and economic prospects.