Bill S.147, introduced by Senator Douglass, aims to establish a new crime concerning the purchase of regulated drugs from individuals under the age of 21. The proposed legislation adds a new section, 4237a, to Title 18 of the Vermont Statutes, which explicitly prohibits any person from knowingly and unlawfully purchasing a regulated drug from someone under 21 years of age. Violators of this law would face a mandatory imprisonment term ranging from one to five years, in addition to any other penalties that may apply.

The bill also specifies that it will take effect on July 1, 2025, allowing time for public awareness and enforcement preparations. This legislative measure seeks to strengthen regulations surrounding drug purchases and enhance the protection of minors from potential exploitation in the drug market.