Vermont Bill S.241
Definition: Vermont S.241 was a 2016 bill that would have legalized and regulated adult-use cannabis sales in Vermont. It passed the state Senate on February 25, 2016, which made Vermont’s Senate the first legislative chamber in the US to approve a full tax-and-regulate cannabis bill, but it failed in the House.
What Did S.241 Propose?
The bill would have allowed adults 21 and older to possess small amounts of cannabis and created a state-licensed system for cultivation, testing, and retail sales, with tax revenue going to the state. Unlike most legalization at the time, it was written by lawmakers rather than passed by a ballot measure.
Why Did S.241 Fail?
After passing the Senate, the bill stalled in the House, where members voted down versions of it in May 2016. Concerns included impaired driving, youth access, and moving straight to commercial sales.
What Happened After S.241?
- 2018: Vermont became the first state to legalize adult-use cannabis through its legislature rather than a ballot vote, allowing possession and limited home growing, but no retail sales.
- 2020: A new law created a licensed retail market.
- October 2022: Licensed adult-use retail sales began.
Related terms: Prop 64, Cole Memo, Controlled Substances Act, Dispensary
Sources: Vermont General Assembly.
