The bill S.323 focuses on agricultural regulations in Vermont, particularly emphasizing the authority of municipalities regarding farming activities. It explicitly prohibits municipalities from regulating farming practices and the construction of farm structures, reversing a recent Vermont Supreme Court decision that allowed such regulations. The bill clarifies that municipalities cannot impose bylaws on farming, including the cultivation of plants and management of small poultry flocks, excluding roosters. Additionally, it amends existing laws related to agricultural practices, ensuring that individuals engaged in farming are not subject to municipal zoning bylaws, and introduces new provisions for the Farm-to-School Program, along with changes to pesticide licensing requirements and the repeal of the Pest Control Compact effective July 1, 2026.

Moreover, the bill establishes the Vermont Agricultural Credit Program to provide alternative credit sources for farmers and forest products businesses, defining key terms and outlining program objectives such as encouraging diversification and assisting beginning farmers. It also introduces a new subchapter focused on hemp, consolidating oversight under the Cannabis Control Board and establishing registration and licensing requirements for growers and processors. The bill grants the Board authority to enforce regulations on hemp cultivation, processing, and sale, including testing for THC levels and ensuring accurate labeling. Additionally, it amends definitions and tax provisions related to cannabis and hemp, with the act set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 24-4413(d), 24-4413, 32-5811(21), 32-5811, 32-9603, 10-6081(t), 10-6081, 32-3752(1), 32-3752, 18-4301, 18-4353, 30-248, 6-2752, 6-4721, 6-83, 6-1112, 6-641, 6-642, 6-644, 6-646(b), 6-646, 6-647, 6-648, 10-16A, 6-4851(i), 6-4851, 6-4858(e), 6-4858
As Passed By the Senate -- Official: 24-4413(d), 24-4413, 32-5811(21), 32-5811, 32-9603, 10-6081(t), 10-6081, 32-3752(1), 32-3752, 18-4301, 18-4353, 30-248, 6-2752, 6-4721, 6-83, 6-1112, 6-641, 6-642, 6-644, 6-646(b), 6-646, 6-647, 6-648, 10-16A, 6-4851(i), 6-4851, 6-4858(e), 6-4858, 32-3755, 10-211(c), 10-211, 10-212, 10-216, 10-220a, 10-280a, 6-34, 18-4201(15), 18-4201, 32-7811(b), 32-7811, 10-723
As Passed By the Senate -- Unofficial: 24-4413(d), 24-4413, 10-6081(t), 10-6081, 6-2752, 6-4721, 6-83, 6-1112, 6-641, 6-642, 6-644, 6-646(b), 6-646, 6-647, 6-648, 10-16A, 10-211(c), 10-211, 10-212, 10-216, 10-220a, 10-280a, 6-34, 18-4201(15), 18-4201, 32-7811(b), 32-7811, 10-723