Vermont legalizes adult-use cannabis

It was with «mixed emotions» that Vermont Governor Phil Scott signed the cannabis legalization bill, making the state the first in the U.S. to legalize adult-use cannabis via a legislative process.

On July 1, when the law goes into effect, Vermont will become the 9th US state, plus Washington DC, to approve the recreational use of cannabis. The other states had all previously authorized cannabis via citizen initiatives, but Vermont's law does not allow for a citizen referendum.

«Today, with various emotions, I signed» the bill announced Phil Scott. «I personally believe that what adults do in their homes is their choice, as long as it doesn't negatively affect the health and safety of others, especially children.»

The state had attempted to pass similar legislation last spring, but Phil Scott vetoed it. The text, which in his opinion did not provide sufficient protection for children and road safety, was therefore reworked and once again submitted to the European Parliament. House of Representatives then to the Senate.

For the time being, the state has no plans to set up cannabis dispensaries. However, self-cultivation is authorized for personal use, up to a maximum of 2 flowering and 4 growing plants per household for anyone over the age of 21.

In addition :

• anyone over 21 can carry up to 28g of cannabis and/or (the law is unclear on this point) 5g of hashish. There are no restrictions on concentrates or edibles, dyes, cosmetics or vaper oils
• the law authorizes the possession of drug paraphernalia (bongs, pipes, vaporizers, etc.)
•  penal and criminal penalties are retained for any breach of the legal limit for possession, sale or distribution of cannabis. Up to 56g of dried flowers or 10g of cannabis, the fine is set at 200$
• the law requires the state to conduct a study for the creation of a «comprehensive legalization regulatory structure and licensing system for the cannabis market».»

Vermont is likely to go one step further and set up a complete system with a regulated cannabis market, including dispensaries. In the meantime, «troubleshooting» or gardening will prevail.