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 fingerprint-based criminal background checks for individuals applying for cannabis establishment identification cards and includes provisions for the Cannabis Control Board to issue special permits in cases of incapacity or distress of cannabis establishment principals. Additionally, it specifies that hemp products do not include substances regulated as cannabis products and outlines the responsibilities of cultivators regarding product packaging.

Furthermore, the bill introduces new reporting requirements for the Cannabis Control Board, mandating a report on cannabis fees and recommendations for adjustments to promote participation in the regulated market. It also updates definitions related to tobacco products to include synthetic nicotine and clarifies the liability of transferees in bulk sales regarding tax obligations. 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