Conference Looks at Marijuana Legalization in VT March 6 at Vermont Law School

The Criminal Law Society and SPEAK at Vermont Law School will present "Marijuana Legalization in Vermont: Arguments, Considerations and Perspectives," a conference from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Friday, March 6, in Chase Community Center at VLS. The conference is free and open to the public.

"Vermont lawmakers face what could be a historic resolution in legalizing recreational marijuana, but the decision requires careful consideration," said student Matt Accardi ’15 of the Criminal Law Society. "We are grateful for the chance to facilitate the discussion, and we hope the conference enhances Vermont’s decision-making process."

SPEAK, a VLS student organization promoting speech, persuasion, education, advocacy and knowledge, will open the conference with a debate competition with students from VLS and the University of Vermont.

Conference-goers will discuss recreational use of marijuana, possible legislation, business structure, distribution and enforcement logistics, and health and safety concerns. Marijuana advocacy group representatives will give arguments for and against regulation. Experts and business owners from Vermont’s medicinal marijuana industry will share how their experience may influence recreational marijuana law-making decisions. And law enforcement officers will present their view of marijuana legislation and how it will affect their services throughout Vermont.

For more information about the conference, including registration and Continuing Legal Education (CLE) credits, visit eventbrite.com or email Matt Accardi at mattaccardi@vermontlaw.edu. For more information about SPEAK, the Criminal Law Society and other student groups at Vermont Law School, visit www.vermontlaw.edu/community/student-groups.