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Montpelier Senate approves recreational marijuana bill, police say

In Burlington, Vermont, police say a man was charged with possession of marijuana with intent to distribute after a traffic stop revealed over 50 grams of cannabis.

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According to police reports, the Vermont Senate approved a marijuana legalization bill on Wednesday, making Vermont the first state to legalize recreational marijuana through legislative action rather than a ballot initiative. The House had previously passed the measure last week.

The legislation allows adults aged 21 and older to possess up to one ounce of marijuana, cultivate two mature plants and four immature plants, with restrictions on household cultivation. Landlords retain the right to prohibit growing on their properties. The bill also introduces a new misdemeanor for providing marijuana to individuals under 21, a change requested by Governor Phil Scott.

While a majority of the Senate supported the bill, not all members were in agreement. Senator Brian Collamore, a Republican from Rutland County, voted against the measure, citing concerns about the timing and the need for further educational efforts.

Defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty. The governor has not yet indicated when he will act on the bill, which may lead to further discussions on marijuana regulation in Vermont in the coming months. The final report from the relevant commission is expected in December 2019, which may influence future legislation. This Vermont montpelier senate story highlights important developments. The Vermont montpelier senate situation continues to develop. The Vermont montpelier senate situation continues to develop.

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