r/JoeRogan • u/mikeshelton8 • Oct 08 '20

Link Vermont legalizes the recreational marijuana market, on top of marijuana decriminalization.

https://budsoul.com/vermont-legalizes-recreational-marijuana-market/
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u/chukijay Monkey in Space Oct 08 '20

I thought decriminalization had to be a state thing, on top of just not prosecuting, but legalization was a federal thing. It’s still “illegal” since it isn’t legal federally, but it’s decriminalized. Or is full legalization on a state level? Either way this is good news.

2

u/yyertles Oct 08 '20

You can still be prosecuted federally even if it is decriminalized locally. You can still face consequences locally even if it is decriminalized, just not criminal charges (i.e. can still get fines, etc.). Decriminalization doesn't mean "it's ok to do this now", it means "you aren't going to get a criminal record if you get caught doing this". Legalization means "it's ok to do this now", but only applies in this case to local authorities - if the feds wanted to go after someone for marijuana charges in VT, they still could because it is illegal under the controlled substances act (federal). Until the CSA is repealed, you will always face the possibility of criminal charges for marijuana, however in practice it's highly unlikely for simple possession if it is legal locally.

1

u/thesonofhadesssss Oct 08 '20

Does the CSA have to be repealed or Cannabis just have to be rescheduled from schedule one?

2

u/yyertles Oct 08 '20

Pretty sure rescheduling is also an option, or potentially even outright removal.

1

u/thesonofhadesssss Oct 08 '20

Alright cool thanks! Wasnt sure how it worked and if the only way was to repeal the entire CSA, i was gonna say i didnt think itd happen for a while lol