RICHMOND, Va. (WWBT) – Virginia’s Cannabis Control Authority is launching a campaign to explain the dangers of driving under the influence of marijuana as the state moves toward creating a legal marijuana market.

The campaign includes videos and other materials aimed at dissuading people from getting behind the wheel while impaired by cannabis.

“If you look back decades ago, I think driving under the influence of alcohol was more socially acceptable, and it took decades of education for people to really understand it was not safe, and I think we’re facing the same thing with cannabis,” said Jamie Patten, head of the authority.

Patten said driving under the influence of marijuana has negative effects.

“You can have a slower reaction time, your coordination can be impaired, your judgement can be altered or your perception about where things are on the roadway can be altered as well,” Patten said.

The CCA conducted a study in 2024 to gauge what Virginians thought about driving high.

The results showed around 30% of Virginia drivers believe cannabis makes people safer driver. 1 in 10 drivers thought there was no penalty for driving under the influence of cannabis.

“The mentality around that is not where we would like it to be,” Patten said.

Driving under the influence of cannabis is illegal. It can lead to fines, loss of a driver’s license and possibly jail time.

A spokesperson with Virginia State Police said in a statement: “Driving under the influence of cannabis is becoming more prevalent, as use is more common with decriminalization and legalization. It is the most common drug category of DRE (Drug Recognition Expert) evaluations.”

A bill is now heading to Gov. Abigail Spanberger’s desk to legalize a recreational marijuana market. Patten said it makes the campaign and its message that much more important.

“Help people understand that if you feel different you drive different,” Patten said.

The authority says if you are going to use marijuana and travel, it’s a good idea to have a designated driver or use a ride share.

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