Bill > H0806

This bill aims to revise advertising rules for licensed cannabis establishments in Vermont, acknowledging that freedom of speech, including commercial speech, is protected by both the U.S. and Vermont Constitutions. It seeks to replace current restrictions, which include pre-approval for all customer communications and a de facto ban on public outdoor advertising, with regulations that are more constitutionally permissible. Specifically, the bill clarifies that advertisements are broadly disseminated statements about cannabis products, and it exempts certain materials like editorial content, unbiased informational material, and signs that simply identify the establishment's name, location, or hours, as long as they don't have overtly promotional messaging. The bill also allows for the promotion of non-cannabis products sold by these establishments. It prohibits cannabis advertisements from claiming to treat or cure diseases and removes the prohibition on offering free samples. Furthermore, it modifies the rules for paid advertisements in third-party media, requiring that no more than 30 percent of the audience is reasonably expected to be under 21 years of age, and mandates that all such advertisements include a short-form health warning. The bill also reiterates that advertising should not depict minors consuming cannabis or be designed to appeal to them, and it grants the regulatory Board the authority to require changes to advertisements to protect public health and safety. This act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Government Affairs

https://legislature.vermont.gov/bill/status/2026/H.806