As the second half of any year takes place in the Commonwealth, there is the implementation of new laws taking place. What makes this year different than others is the divided Virginia Congress, with a Republican governor but a divided General Assembly. Below is a brief on the legislation that was signed by Governor Glenn Youngkin:

Marijuana penalties – Lawmakers created a new misdemeanor for possessing more than 4 ounces (113 grams) but not more than 1 pound (454 grams) of marijuana in public. This change came as a result of the newly signed budget.

Facial recognition software – Under the new law, police agencies can use facial recognition in certain situations, such as to help identify an individual when they have reasonable suspicion that the person committed a crime. This can be used for sex trafficking victims and unidentified bodies in morgues. However, facial recognition is barred for surveillance or monitoring.

FOIA – Now, the disclosure of public access to some law enforcement files in closed criminal investigations will no longer be mandatory. Discretion is up to the law enforcement agency.

Classroom material control – Parents are now allowed to review any instructional materials with explicit content and that students be given an alternative assignment if the parent requests. School boards have until January to adopt these policies to notify parents about material containing sexually explicit content.

Drinks to go – Lawmakers extended for up to two years the ability of some businesses to sell mixed drinks for off-site consumption.

Catalytic Converters – Legislation now makes tampering with or stealing a catalytic converter a Class 6 felony, punishable by up to five years in prison. Those who sell catalytic converters must show identification, which the purchaser must record.