The State of Vermont Cannabis Control Board will not be able to issue cannabis licenses for small growers on May 1, the target date set by state law Act 164.
However, the board points out that the delay should not be long in issuing licenses.
“The board has made significant progress in meeting this target date; however, our core mission remains creating a safe, effective, and equitable adult-use market. Strict adherence to this date — when the Board does not yet have full licensing staff or a compliance team — runs counter to our consumer protection and public safety mandates,” the board said.
The board is currently working on reviewing applications and approving qualified applicants for licensure. As of April 22, the board received applications from 83 growers, including two social equity applications under review. Those with approved licenses may begin to operate immediately.
Right now, the board’s staff consists of four full-time employees, so it is understaffed. But it was recently authorized to hire additional staff and is currently in the process of recruiting the new staffers.
“Please be patient while we put the team in place that will ensure the Vermont cannabis market will be a model for the country,” board officials said.