Vermont Has Legalized Recreational Marijuana Sales

House Energy and Commerce Committee approved substitute version of The Marijuana Research Act of 2019 — State Of Vermont Legalizes Recreational Marijuana Sales | Shutter Stock Image

Now the eleventh state to legalize recreational marijuana sales, Vermont has made another step forward in the legislation of cannabis. Vermont first legalized cannabis back in 2018. However, cannabis was only legalized for personal possession and cultivation. Until recently, there were no laws to regulate and tax commercial sale of cannabis. Before Senate Bill 54, residents of Vermont were only permitted to have personal possession of up to an ounce of cannabis and grow up to six adult cannabis plants.

On Oct. 7th, 2020 Governor Phil Scott announced that, he will not stand in the way of a bill to regulate the cannabis market. However, Governor Phil Scott did not suggest that he would sign Senate Bill 54. This came as a surprise, considering the fact that some provisions under the bill were called to action by Governor Scott.

"Vermont Now Ready For Cannabis Sales!"

Joining a list of states with a legalized cannabis market, Vermont residents will soon be able to shop for their favorite strain from local dispensaries. The shift in popularity for cannabis use and legalization is apparent across most if not all states. A larger percentage of the population and lawmakers are becoming out spoken about their stance on the subject of cannabis legislation. Though no federal laws have been passed to regulate cannabis; the rising number of states enacting laws to regulate and tax the cannabis market, could possibly force action by the federal government.

The passing of Senate Bill 54 shows promise for the cannabis market, and brings hope for others in nearby states during the current election climate. With the growing number of supporters for cannabis; laws for regulation have also been added to vote ballots across many states for the 2020 election. The future of federal regulations for the cannabis market remain unclear, but the desire for legislation may cause swifter action, depending on how lawmakers react to popular vote.