Starting July 1, 2026, Virginia law mandates the automatic sealing of records related to former marijuana possession offenses without requiring a court order. This applies to offenses resulting in a final disposition under § 18.2-250.1 and involves various agencies sealing their records. However, federal record retention and program requirements may limit sealing in some cases.
The law becomes effective on July 1, 2026, and mandates automatic sealing of qualifying records.
No, records will be sealed automatically without the need for a court order.
Yes, the Department of Motor Vehicles may refuse to seal records if federal regulations require retention or impact driving privileges.
The Central Criminal Records Exchange, courts, law enforcement agencies, and the Department of Motor Vehicles are involved in sealing records.