Vermont Marijuana Legalization Bill Vetoed, But Path Forward Remains

Vermont Gov. Phil Scott, a Republican, on Wednesday vetoed the bill that would have legalized marijuana for adult use in the state. Scott said there was still a path forward for legalization in the state and offered changes the legislature would need to gain his support. The bill would have eliminated penalties for possession of up to an ounce of marijuana and cultivation of up to two mature plants and four immature plants in the home. The bill was passed by the Senate in a 20-9 vote and the House of Representatives in a 79-66 vote earlier this month. While eight states have legalized marijuana via ballot initiative, Vermont would have become the first to do so through the legislative process. According to the Marijuana Policy Project, 57% of voters in Vermont support legalizing marijuana for adults 21 and older. "We are disappointed by the governor's decision to veto this widely supported legislation, but we are very encouraged by the governor's offer to work with legislators to pass a legalization bill during the summer veto session," said Matt Simon, New England political director of the Marijuana Policy Project, in a statement. "Despite the veto, this is a huge leap forward."