A number of new laws start on Thursday. Those include expanding the Virginia Human Rights Act that prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability. After Thursday absentee ballots will no longer need a witness’ signature but only during a public health emergency. And recreational marijuana becomes legal on Thursday. Those 21 and older can possess up to an ounce of marijuana and home cultivation of up to four plants will be allowed as long as precautions are taken to keep them away from minors.