Vermont Senate approves recreational marijuana bill.

Vermont Senate approves recreational marijuana bill. MONTPELIER, Vt. (WCAX) The Vermont Senate Wednesday afternoon approved a marijuana legalization bill. "I think it reflects the will of Vermonters, and it's been an ongoing process for a long time," said Lt. Gov. David Zuckerman.

The vote make Vermont the first state in the country to authorize the recreational use of marijuana by an act of the Legislature as opposed to a ballot measure. The House passed the bill last week.

"I'm excited that we've gotten to this point again. I believe this is an important step, it's an important criminal justice reform. It's an important statement that the Vermont Legislature recognizes that prohibition is a failure," said Laura Subin with the Vt. Coalition to Regulate Marijuana.

Not all members of the Senate agree. Senator Brian Collamore, R-Rutland County, is among those who voted no. "I don't think it sends a particularly positive message to our youth, but that's probably going to be overcome with some educational efforts down the road," he said.

If the bill were to become come law here's what it would look like: Vermonters over the age of 21 would be allowed to possess up to one ounce of pot. They could also have two mature plants and four immature plants. Only one person can cultivate plants per dwelling and landlords can refuse to allow growing. It also includes a change demanded by Governor Phil Scott -- a new misdemeanor crime for providing anyone under 21 with marijuana. READ MORE