Cannabis

Vermont Is On Its Way To Legalizing Marijuana

The Vermont House approved legalizing marijuana just hours after Attorney General Jeff Sessions rolled back an Obama-era policy on marijuana.

Vermont Is On Its Way To Legalizing Marijuana
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The state of Vermont is one step closer to legalizing marijuana.

On Thursday, its House of Representatives voted in favor of a bill that would allow people over the age of 21 to legally possess and grow small amounts of marijuana beginning in July. 

Vermont tried to end its marijuana prohibition in 2017. A bill passed both legislative chambers but was vetoed by Gov. Phil Scott, who wanted some revisions.

The state's Senate still needs to approve the latest version of the bill, but Scott's already indicated he'll sign.

California Rings In The New Year With New Marijuana Laws
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California Rings In The New Year With New Marijuana Laws

Starting Jan. 1, adults over the age of 21 can legally purchase recreational marijuana in cities that agree to sell it.

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If that happens, Vermont will become the first state to legalize marijuana through its legislators. Other states have done it through statewide ballot initiatives.

The timing of the Vermont House vote is notable, too. It happened just hours after U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions rolled back an Obama-era policy that allowed legalized marijuana to thrive in the U.S. without much federal oversight. 

Vermont's Senate will reportedly take up the bill next week. But unlike other states, the bill would not legalize the commercial sale of marijuana.