Pre-1900s: Cannabis was likely present in Vermont as part of hemp cultivation, which was common in many parts of the United States for its use in textiles and rope.
Early 20th Century: Like much of the U.S., cannabis in Vermont was primarily used for industrial purposes. There is little evidence of widespread recreational or medicinal use at this time.
2004: Vermont became the ninth state to legalize medical marijuana. The law allowed eligible patients and their caregivers to possess and cultivate limited amounts of marijuana for medical use.
2013: Vermont decriminalized the possession of small amounts of marijuana, replacing criminal penalties with civil fines for possession of up to one ounce.
2018: Vermont made a significant move by legalizing the possession and cultivation of marijuana for personal use, becoming the first state to legalize marijuana through legislative action rather than a voter initiative. The law permitted adults to possess up to one ounce of marijuana and grow a limited number of plants for personal use. However, it did not establish a legal market for the sale of cannabis.
2020 and Beyond: Vermont continued to evolve its stance on cannabis. In 2020, the state legislature passed a bill to establish a regulated and taxed market for recreational cannabis, which was signed into law. This marked a significant shift towards a more comprehensive legal framework for cannabis use in Vermont. The commercial sale of cannabis is expected to start following the establishment of the regulatory framework and licensing process.
Throughout this history, Vermont's approach to cannabis has mirrored broader national trends, shifting from industrial and medicinal use, through criminalization and stigmatization, to decriminalization and eventual legalization for both medical and recreational use. The state's journey reflects changing social attitudes, increased recognition of the medical benefits of cannabis, and a growing emphasis on regulation over prohibition.