Vermont House committees favor cannabis retail amendments despite farmer market opposition
May 31, 2025 | Economic Development, Housing & General Affairs, SENATE, Committees, Legislative , Vermont
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The Senate Economic Development meeting held on May 30, 2025, focused on several key issues regarding retail regulations and amendments related to cannabis sales in Vermont. The meeting began with discussions about the removal of the retail setting rule from the rule package submitted to the Legislative Committee on Administrative Rules (LCAR). This change was noted to have already achieved its intended effect, prompting a reevaluation of the moratorium on retail cannabis sales until further guidance is provided.
The committee reviewed the financial implications of eliminating certain fees, specifically the trim and harvest fees, which were projected to yield minimal revenue, approximately $5,000. The discussions highlighted the mixed responses from various committees in the House regarding the proposed amendments. The Government Operations Committee voted 8-2-1 in favor, while the Ways and Means Committee showed unanimous support with a 7-0-4 vote. However, the Appropriations Committee expressed concerns, resulting in a closer vote of 6-5, particularly regarding the potential impact on farmers' markets.
Concerns were raised about the risks associated with cannabis sales outside regulated retail environments, including public safety issues due to the cash nature of the industry. The committee acknowledged that the Corporations Committee had not previously addressed these concerns, indicating a need for further discussion.
As the meeting progressed, members discussed the procedural steps needed to notify the Secretary of State regarding their recommendation to concur with the House amendments. The committee anticipated receiving the House's amendments soon and planned to address any changes that might arise from those discussions.
In conclusion, the meeting underscored the ongoing legislative efforts to refine cannabis retail regulations in Vermont, with a focus on balancing economic development and public safety. The committee remains poised to respond to developments from the House and will reconvene as necessary to finalize their position on the amendments.
The committee reviewed the financial implications of eliminating certain fees, specifically the trim and harvest fees, which were projected to yield minimal revenue, approximately $5,000. The discussions highlighted the mixed responses from various committees in the House regarding the proposed amendments. The Government Operations Committee voted 8-2-1 in favor, while the Ways and Means Committee showed unanimous support with a 7-0-4 vote. However, the Appropriations Committee expressed concerns, resulting in a closer vote of 6-5, particularly regarding the potential impact on farmers' markets.
Concerns were raised about the risks associated with cannabis sales outside regulated retail environments, including public safety issues due to the cash nature of the industry. The committee acknowledged that the Corporations Committee had not previously addressed these concerns, indicating a need for further discussion.
As the meeting progressed, members discussed the procedural steps needed to notify the Secretary of State regarding their recommendation to concur with the House amendments. The committee anticipated receiving the House's amendments soon and planned to address any changes that might arise from those discussions.
In conclusion, the meeting underscored the ongoing legislative efforts to refine cannabis retail regulations in Vermont, with a focus on balancing economic development and public safety. The committee remains poised to respond to developments from the House and will reconvene as necessary to finalize their position on the amendments.
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