Isn't it just fitting that the "Green Mountain State" known as Vermont is the first state to legalize marijuana via legislature? Yes, there are already 9 states plus the District that have legalized marijuana either medically or recreationally. These states legalized marijuana by ballot and legalization relied on the people; Vermont passed law H. 511 allowing for the possession of recreational marijuana. Vermont legalized medical marijuana use in 2004 and in 2013 decriminalized possession of a small amount. H. 511 decriminalizes, for adults 21 and older, personal possession of no more than 1 ounce, and cultivation of two mature plants on their private property. An odd caveat, marijuana remains a controlled substance in Vermont and its sale is prohibited. It's also good to know: consumption of marijuana in public places is prohibited, consumption of marijuana by operators & passengers in a motor vehicle are all prohibited. Schools, employers, municipalities and landlords are also empowered to adopt policies and ordinances further restricting cultivation and use at their discretions. Marijuana remains illegal under federal law.