Vermont Expands Medical Cannabis Cultivation and THC Limits
Vermont expands medical cannabis cultivation rights and increases THC limits, enhancing access and safety in the state's cannabis market
Key Points
- 1Vermont allows medical cannabis patients to grow 12 plants, 6 in growth stage
- 2THC limit in medical cannabis products increased to 100 mg per serving
- 3New law broadens access for PTSD patients and expands caregiver capacity
- 4State-run cannabis testing lab established for product safety
- 5Advisory group to direct funds to communities affected by cannabis prohibition
Vermont has enacted a new law that significantly expands the rights of medical cannabis patients, allowing them to cultivate up to 12 plants, with six in the growth stage. Additionally, the allowable THC content in medical cannabis products has been increased to 100 milligrams per serving, doubling the previous limit. This legislative change was allowed to take effect without the signature of Governor Phil Scott, indicating a passive endorsement of the policy shift
The new law also broadens access to medical cannabis for patients suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and increases the number of patients a caregiver can serve simultaneously. This expansion is part of a broader effort to make medical cannabis more accessible to those in need. Furthermore, the legislation introduces a new category of licensed growers called propagation cultivators, who are authorized to grow and sell immature plants and clones
In addition to expanding cultivation rights, the law establishes a state-run cannabis testing laboratory. This facility will enable the Vermont Cannabis Control Board to conduct random tests on products to ensure the accuracy of potency and other key ingredients, such as terpenes, as reported by Newsweed. This move aims to enhance consumer safety and product reliability in the state's growing cannabis market
The history of cannabis legislation in Vermont has seen significant developments over the years. Medical cannabis was first legalized in 2004, with adult-use possession decriminalized in 2018. The state further advanced its cannabis policies in 2020 by legalizing the production and retail sale of cannabis products. These legislative steps reflect Vermont's progressive stance on cannabis regulation and its commitment to evolving its legal framework to meet public health and safety standards
Looking forward, the new law also establishes an advisory group tasked with recommending ways to direct funding toward communities disproportionately affected by cannabis prohibition. This initiative highlights Vermont's recognition of the social justice implications of cannabis policy and its commitment to addressing past inequities. As the state continues to refine its cannabis laws, these measures are expected to contribute to a more equitable and accessible cannabis market