Bill S.278 amends Vermont's cannabis laws to enhance possession limits and introduce new permit types for cannabis events and deliveries. It raises the maximum THC content in a single cannabis product package from 100 to 200 milligrams, increases the transaction limit for retailers from one ounce to two ounces, and allows individuals to possess up to two ounces of cannabis and ten grams of hashish. The bill also permits the cultivation of three mature and six immature cannabis plants per individual, while establishing new event and delivery permits for licensed cannabis establishments. Additionally, it reduces licensing fees for outdoor cultivators and allows municipalities to regulate cannabis establishments through local voting, ensuring local control.

The legislation further clarifies the operation and regulation of cannabis establishments by establishing local cannabis control commissions that can issue licenses without fees and prohibiting municipalities from completely banning cannabis operations. It repeals the integrated license category to simplify the licensing structure and enhance regulatory oversight. The bill modifies employee licensing fees from annual to biennial, introduces provisions for cultivator cooperatives, and allows the Governor to enter agreements with other states for commercial cannabis activities. It also updates the Cannabis Business Development Fund to support social equity applicants and tier 1 businesses, clarifies tax provisions, and includes regulations for foreign licensees operating in Vermont. Lastly, it prohibits rental agreements from restricting tenants' cannabis possession or use, with certain exceptions.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 7-868, 7-881, 7-907, 18-4230, 18-4230a, 7-910, 7-864, 7-866, 32-7902, 7-863, 7-987
As Passed By the Senate -- Official: 7-868, 7-881, 7-907, 18-4230, 18-4230a, 7-910, 7-864, 7-866, 32-7902, 7-863, 7-987, 32-7904, 32-7906, 7-846, 7-861, 7-901, 7-904, 7-904a, 7-974, 32-6061, 7-869, 32-3102, 7-909, 7-912, 7-913
As Passed By the Senate -- Unofficial: 7-881, 7-907, 18-4230, 18-4230a, 32-7902, 32-7904, 32-7906, 7-910, 7-863, 7-846, 7-861, 7-866, 7-901, 7-904, 7-904a, 7-974, 7-987, 32-6061, 7-869, 32-3102, 7-909, 7-912, 7-913