Vermont Halts New Large-Scale Cannabis Grower Licenses to Support Smaller Farms Amid Tough Agricultural Year

LOS ANGELES- In a strategic move to bolster smaller local cultivators, Vermont has announced a temporary suspension of issuing new licenses for large-scale cannabis growers. This decision was disclosed on Tuesday by state officials, marking a significant step in Vermont’s efforts to balance its burgeoning legal cannabis market.

James Pepper, the chairman of Vermont’s Cannabis Control Board, explained that the state’s approach is part of a comprehensive strategy to regulate the new legal market while prioritizing support for small-scale farmers and focusing on equity-driven initiatives. “Our supply side measures are deliberately designed to benefit small cultivators, including small farmers and social equity applicants, ensuring they have adequate market space to thrive,” Pepper commented during an interview with Vermont Public Radio.

Vermont’s latest policy mirrors the challenges encountered by other states like Oregon and Oklahoma, where an oversupply of cannabis has led to a significant reduction in market prices. This proactive measure by Vermont aims to prevent a similar scenario and maintain a balanced market dynamic.

Adding to the challenges, Vermont’s outdoor cannabis growers have experienced a particularly difficult year. Unusually heavy rains in July and August have adversely affected crop yields, leading to a significant decrease in harvest volumes compared to the previous year. According to Pepper, preliminary reports indicate that yields are ranging from 50% to 75% of last year’s harvest, though he remains optimistic about the overall situation.

In another development, Vermont is preparing to launch one of the nation’s first state-operated cannabis testing laboratories. Expected to be operational by January, this facility will be situated in either Randolph or Colchester. It is designed to complement the existing services provided by two private labs in the state, thereby enhancing the testing and quality assurance processes for cannabis products.

This series of actions taken by Vermont underscores the state’s commitment to creating a sustainable and equitable cannabis market, with a particular focus on supporting smaller local growers and ensuring product quality and safety.