The bill amends various sections of Vermont's cannabis laws to enhance regulatory oversight and clarify definitions related to cannabis and hemp products. Notably, it allows for the seizure and forfeiture of unlawfully possessed cannabis, including violations of administrative rules. The bill also establishes a requirement for criminal background checks for individuals applying for cannabis establishment identification cards and licenses, with provisions for the Board to conduct these checks through the Vermont Crime Information Center and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Additionally, it introduces a special permitting process for temporary operation of cannabis establishments in cases of incapacity or distress, providing immunity from civil and criminal liability for those acting under such permits.

Further amendments include the clarification of definitions for hemp products, ensuring that products containing more than 0.3% THC are classified as cannabis products. The bill also mandates that the Cannabis Control Board submit a report on cannabis fees and potential adjustments to promote participation in the regulated market by small farmers and social equity applicants. Other changes involve updates to packaging requirements for cannabis products and the inclusion of new definitions related to tobacco and nicotine products. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 7-832, 7-844, 7-861(23), 7-861, 7-881, 7-883, 7-884, 7-901, 7-904, 7-904b, 7-910, 32-3260
As Passed By the House -- Official: 7-832, 7-844, 7-861(23), 7-861, 7-881, 7-883, 7-884, 7-901, 7-904, 7-904b, 7-910, 32-3260, 32-7702
As Passed By the House -- Unofficial: 7-832, 7-844, 7-861(23), 7-861, 7-881, 7-883, 7-884, 7-901, 7-904, 7-904b, 7-910, 32-3260, 32-7702
As Passed by Both House and Senate -- Official: 7-832, 7-844, 7-861(23), 7-861, 7-881, 7-883, 7-884, 7-901, 7-904, 7-904b, 7-910, 32-3260, 32-7702, 10-325u
As Passed by Both House and Senate -- Unofficial: 7-832, 7-844, 10-325u, 7-861(23), 7-861, 7-883, 7-884, 7-904, 7-904b, 32-3260, 32-7702
As Enacted: 7-832, 7-844, 10-325u, 7-861(23), 7-861, 7-883, 7-884, 7-904, 7-904b, 32-3260, 32-7702