Vermont, renowned for its scenic landscapes and progressive policies, has played a leading role in the legalization of marijuana in the United States. The state’s journey toward legalization commenced in 2004 when the Vermont legislature sanctioned the medical use of marijuana. In 2013, penalties for possessing one ounce or less were reduced to fines.
In July 2018, legislation came into effect, legalizing possession, private consumption, and limited cultivation for individuals aged 21 and older. Recently, the Vermont legislature voted to establish a regulated market scheduled to open in October 2022. Despite its legality in Vermont, marijuana remains prohibited at the federal level.
Marijuana Usage in Vermont
Marijuana consumption among Vermont residents consistently ranks among the highest in the country, particularly among 12-17 and 18-25-year-olds. In 2019, 40% of high school students in Vermont (grades 9-12) reported having used marijuana at least once in their lives.
Notably, while lifetime usage has increased recently, marijuana use before the age of 13 has steadily declined over the past decade. In 2019, only 6% of high schoolers reported using before the age of 13, a significant drop from 2009 (9%).
This decline is particularly significant due to the connection between early marijuana use and adverse health outcomes related to brain development, neurocognitive functioning, and mental health.
The Surge of Vaping
The prevalence of vaping as the primary method of marijuana use among high school students surged eightfold between 2017 and 2019. Among high school students, both peer and perceived parental disapproval of marijuana use have decreased over the past decade.
Adult Usage
In 2019, 20% of Vermont adults (18+) reported using marijuana at least once in the past 30 days. The past 30-day usage has steadily increased since 2013 when 7% of adults reported using. Usage in 2019 was notably higher compared to 2018 (17%). Past 30-day marijuana use among adults has nearly tripled since 2013.
While the data doesn’t specify which city in Vermont has the highest usage, it is evident that the state as a whole has witnessed a substantial increase in marijuana use among both youth and adults. With the regulated market opening and marijuana becoming more accessible, it will be intriguing to observe how these trends evolve.
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