Vermont House Passes Decriminalization Bill — On to the Senate!

After several days of discussion, the Vermont House overwhelmingly voted this afternoon in favor of H. 200, a bill that would reduce the penalty for possessing up to an ounce of marijuana to a violation, making it a civil, rather than criminal, offense. Ninety-two representatives voted in favor, and only 49 were opposed.

The bill will now move forward to the Senate, which has already held hearings on the issue.

If you live in Vermont, please contact your senator today and urge them to support this legislation.

As amended by the House Judiciary Committee and approved in a 9-2 vote, H. 200 would reduce the penalty for possessing up to an ounce to a fine of up to $300. With support from Gov. Peter Shumlin and top law enforcement officials, the bill appears to have a very strong chance of passing into law.