Bill > SB833

This bill establishes that on or after July 1, 2023, individuals in Maryland who are at least 21 years old may use and possess cannabis. The bill alters certain provisions relating to penalties, charging procedures, expungement, and sentencing for certain offenses involving cannabis. The bill also establishes a system for the regulation and taxation of the market for the production and sale of cannabis in the state. The key provisions of this bill are: 1. Individuals 21 and older can use and possess cannabis starting July 1, 2023. The legislature must pass laws to regulate and tax the cannabis industry. 2. Penalties for cannabis possession are reduced, with the possession of a personal use amount (up to 1.5 ounces) by those under 21 being a civil offense rather than a criminal one. Smoking cannabis in public is also a civil offense. 3. Records related to past cannabis possession offenses will be automatically expunged, and individuals incarcerated for cannabis possession can apply for resentencing or release. 4. The bill establishes an Office of Social Equity to promote participation in the cannabis industry by communities disproportionately harmed by cannabis prohibition. It creates funds to provide loans, grants, and training for social equity applicants. 5. The bill imposes an excise tax on adult-use cannabis sales, with the revenue being used for various purposes including community reinvestment, education, and public health campaigns. 6. The bill includes provisions to regulate the cannabis industry, including licensing requirements, product testing and labeling standards, and restrictions on advertising and packaging. Overall, this bill seeks to legalize, regulate, and tax adult-use cannabis in Maryland while promoting equity and reinvestment in communities most impacted by the war on drugs.

Budget and Finance, Government Affairs, Justice

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/SB0833?ys=2022RS