If you’re wondering what the cannabis laws are in Maryland, you’re not alone. Keep reading to find out everything you need to know about cannabis in the state of Maryland.
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Recreational Use
In November 2014, Massachusetts voters passed a ballot initiative making recreational cannabis use legal in the state. The law went into effect on December 15, 2016, making Massachusetts the first East Coast state to legalize cannabis for adult use.
State law allows adults 21 and over to possess up to 1 ounce of cannabis in public and up to 10 ounces at home. Adults are also allowed to grow up to six cannabis plants at home, but no more than 12 per household.
Cannabis dispensaries are regulated by the state’s Cannabis Control Commission, which is tasked with issuing licenses and overseeing the industry. So far, only a handful of dispensaries have been licensed and are currently operating in the state.
it is still illegal to smoke cannabis in public or while operating a vehicle.
Medicinal Use
In 2014, Maryland became the 21st state to legalize the use of marijuana for medicinal purposes. House Bill 881, also known as “Lauren’s Law,” was passed by the Maryland General Assembly and signed into law by Governor Martin O’Malley. The law went into effect on October 1, 2014.
The law allows patients with certain medical conditions to possess and use marijuana for medicinal purposes. To be eligible, patients must be 18 years of age or older and must have a written certification from a licensed physician. The law also establishes a commission to oversee the implementation and enforcement of the medicinal marijuana program.
Patients who are approved to participate in the program will be able to obtain a maximum of 120 grams (approximately 4 ounces) of usable marijuana per month from one of the state’s licensed dispensaries. Dispensaries will be required to grow and cultivate their own marijuana plants, and all products will be tested for quality and safety before being made available to patients.
Possession
Possession of small amounts of marijuana for personal use is decriminalized in Maryland. This means that possessing 10 grams or less of marijuana is punishable by a fine of $100, but is not considered a criminal offense. If an individual is caught with more than 10 grams of marijuana, they may be subject to criminal penalties.
Cultivation
The maximum amount of cannabis that can be legally cultivated in Maryland is 36 plants. 30 of those plants can be mature, while 6 can be immature. A single household can have a maximum of 72 plants total, with 60 being mature and 12 being immature. The law does allow for people to cultivate cannabis for medical purposes, provided they have a valid medical cannabis card.
Sale
The sale of cannabis in Maryland is illegal.
Transportation
Cannabis in Maryland is decriminalized for possession of 10 grams or less, while possession of more than 10 grams is a misdemeanor punishable by up to 90 days in jail and a fine of up to $500. The state has also legalized medical cannabis, and a program is currently being implemented. However, it is still illegal to smoke cannabis in public, and driving under the influence of cannabis remains illegal.
