Make a Comment • Email Link • Send Letter to Editor

Will Vermont Legalize Marijuana

07-18-2014 • Next News Network

Vermont could legalize marijuana in 2015, after Governor Shumlin launched a study group to look into the possibility. The Rand Corporation has been hired by the administration to examine how such a change could affect the state. The study will be considered by lawmakers there during their winter session. A bill that expanded the state's four medical marijuana dispensaries required the state to conduct a study into full legalization. Research costs will mostly be paid with money from a private organization, with Vermont kicking in $20,000. Administration Secretary Jeb Spaulding spoke to reporters for the governor. He said, "I think that by having an organization with a reputation as solid as Rand conduct this research analysis... will allow the Legislature to have a real conversation based on objective information and facts on what is a pretty significant policy decision." Vermont decriminalized small amounts of cannabis in 2013, and adopted medical marijuana laws fo