Vermont 2023-2024 Regular Session

Vermont House Bill H0727

Introduced
1/10/24  

Caption

An act relating to social host liability for furnishing alcohol or cannabis to an individual under 21

Impact

The bill potentially alters the legal landscape regarding social host liability in Vermont by establishing clear guidelines for civil penalties. The penalties increase in severity with repeat violations, starting at $500 for a first offense, escalating to $1,000 for subsequent offenses. This approach seeks to promote accountability among property owners and reduce instances of underage drinking and cannabis use, aiming to enhance public safety. The starting effective date of the bill is set for July 1, 2024.

Summary

House Bill H0727 introduces new civil penalties aimed at individuals who permit or enable the unlawful consumption of alcoholic beverages or cannabis products by individuals under the age of 21 at gatherings on their property. The proposed legislation emphasizes the responsibilities of property owners as 'social hosts' in preventing underage access to these substances. If someone under 21 is found consuming such controlled substances at a gathering, the property owner may face significant fines based on the number of violations.

Contention

One of the main points of contention surrounding H0727 revolves around the balance between enforcing underage alcohol and cannabis regulations while preserving individual property rights. Critics may argue that the bill could impose a heavy burden on property owners. They express concerns regarding the implications of holding them liable for the actions of their guests, especially in situations where access to these substances can be difficult to control. Supporters, however, highlight the necessity of holding social hosts accountable for ensuring a safe environment, particularly for young individuals.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

VT H0288

An act relating to liability for the sale of alcoholic beverages

VT HB445

Cannabinoids found in hemp; licensure and regulation of sale of consumable cannabinoid products by Alcoholic Beverage Control Board imposed

VT H0426

An act relating to the creation of new types of cannabis establishment licenses and the provision of cannabis excise tax revenue to the Cannabis Business Development Fund, communities that have been disproportionately impacted by cannabis prohibition, and substance misuse treatment

VT S0127

An act relating to the creation of new types of cannabis establishment licenses and the provision of cannabis excise tax revenue to the Cannabis Business Development Fund, communities that have been disproportionately impacted by cannabis prohibition, and substance misuse treatment

VT AB2486

Social host liability: furnishing alcohol to underage

VT SB558

Creating the Kansas medical cannabis act to authorize the cultivation, processing, distribution, sale and use of medical cannabis and medical cannabis products and the Kansas cannabidiol regulation act to regulate the testing and retail sale of cannabidiol products.

VT AB8

Cannabis: cannabinoids: industrial hemp.

VT HB158

Relating to civil liability; to amend Section 6-5-71, Code of Alabama 1975, to further provide for the right of action for injuries resulting from the illegal furnishing of alcoholic beverages, by basing liability for a person who illegally furnishes alcoholic beverages to an individual who injures a third party on what the furnisher knew or should have known under the circumstances; to specify when the right of action is not available; and to provide legislative intent.

VT SB104

Relating to civil liability; to amend Section 6-5-71, Code of Alabama 1975, to further provide for the right of action for injuries resulting from the illegal furnishing of alcoholic beverages, by basing liability for a person who illegally furnishes alcoholic beverages to an individual who injures a third party on what the furnisher knew or should have known under the circumstances; to specify when the right of action is not available; and to provide legislative intent.

VT S1372

Concerns possession or consumption of alcoholic beverages or cannabis by underage persons.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.