**Vermont’s Hypocritical Stance on Cannabis and Alcohol: A Call for Reform**
In a recent opinion piece, Eli Harrington of Burke sheds light on Vermont’s contradictory approach to cannabis and alcohol regulation. As the owner of the Vermont Cannabis Convention and a former cannabis cultivator, Harrington raises valid concerns about the state’s skewed priorities when it comes to these substances.
**The Green & Gold Lager Controversy**
Harrington highlights a recent partnership between Zero Gravity Brewery and the University of Vermont athletics department to create a limited-edition ‘Green & Gold Lager’ in honor of UVM men’s soccer team’s 2024 National Championship win. This collaboration underscores UVM’s historical relationship with alcohol, sparking a debate on the inconsistencies in how the state views cannabis and alcohol.
**A Tale of Two Substances**
The crux of Harrington’s argument lies in the contrasting treatment of alcohol and cannabis in Vermont. While alcohol, a toxic beverage often made from imported ingredients, is widely accepted and promoted, cannabis, a natural plant that can be grown locally, faces stringent regulations and stigma. This disparity sends mixed messages to Vermonters and perpetuates an unjust system of regulation that favors the illegal market.
**A Call for Legislative Reform**
Harrington calls on state lawmakers to address these disparities by enacting sensible cannabis reforms. He proposes measures such as removing THC caps, regulating high THC products for consumer safety, and aligning cannabis advertising restrictions with those of alcohol. These changes, he argues, will not only benefit the cannabis industry but also promote consumer safety and fairness in regulation.
**Empowering Vermonters to Advocate for Change**
As Harrington points out, the responsibility for reform lies with all Vermonters, not just lawmakers. By advocating for sensible cannabis laws and challenging the status quo, individuals can contribute to a more equitable and just regulatory environment. It is essential for the community to come together and push for change that reflects the values and needs of Vermonters.
**Joining the Conversation**
This opinion piece by Eli Harrington serves as a rallying cry for reform in Vermont’s cannabis regulations. By shedding light on the inconsistencies in how the state treats cannabis and alcohol, Harrington urges readers to take action and advocate for change. As Vermonters, we have the power to shape our regulatory landscape and ensure a fair and just system for all.
