The bill H.806, introduced by Representative McGill, aims to revise the advertising restrictions for licensed cannabis establishments in Vermont. It emphasizes the importance of the First Amendment rights concerning commercial speech and seeks to align state regulations with constitutional standards. The bill acknowledges the existing stringent advertising restrictions, which include requiring preapproval for all communications and effectively banning outdoor advertising. The intent is to create a regulated adult-use cannabis market that can compete with unregulated sellers while ensuring that advertising does not mislead consumers or appeal to minors.

Key amendments in the bill include changes to the definitions of advertisements, allowing for broader dissemination of information about cannabis products while maintaining restrictions on misleading claims. The bill also modifies the requirements for advertisements in third-party media, increasing the allowable percentage of the audience under 21 years of age from 15% to 30%. Additionally, it removes the requirement for prior submission of advertisements to the Board, instead allowing the Board to enforce necessary changes post-violation. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 7-861, 7-864, 7-866