To my Representative Shap Smith,

          I am writing to inform you of my thoughts about  S 241.    I and the vast majority of my friends, neighbors and coworkers strongly believe that  Cannabis should be sensible regulated.    We are closely following the legislative process and will hold the obstructionists accountable and reward  those that listen to the growing majority of Vermonters who know that Cannabis prohibition is and has always been a misguided and useless policy.   

        The bill passed by the Senate has its good and bad sides.  The VT state liquor  outlet model makes sense for VT, this I would keep.   Restricting  growing licences to 10-20 is a blatant cash grab by those connected enough to maneuver through the licensing process.  It stifles innovation, doesn't little to help middle and lower class ,  and does nothing to help bring the thriving VT home Cannabis cultivation market into the light.   I would much rather see a more diversified  approach with a reasonable taxable poundage a year cap of say 50-100lbs with common sense regulations regarding security and inspection of facilities.  This would distribute the wealth into the communities,  foster healthy competition,  and illuminate the black market.  I would add to this a reasonable 5-10 plant home grow amendment for the best possible Cannabis bill.  

      I expect you as my elected  representative who I have supported faithfully to fight with all available resources to pass the best version of S 241 possible.  A non biding referendum is a unnecessary  delay tactic.  The Rand study and numerous polls are clear.  The majority of Vermonters support legalization, more of them every year.  We expect our legislators to enact common sense legislation that protects the public with inspection, testing, and safe distribution but does not cripple the free market.   A timely end to Cannabis prohibition is the right thing to do, both economically and morally.  

Please do your best, we are watching. Thank you