Bill > SB217

This bill modifies the Community Reinvestment and Repair Fund, which is funded by tax revenue from the adult-use cannabis market, to address disparities caused by past cannabis prohibition enforcement. The fund, administered by the Comptroller at the direction of the Office of Social Equity (an office established to promote participation in the regulated cannabis industry by those disproportionately impacted by drug laws), will be used to provide grants to community-based organizations serving communities most affected by disproportionate cannabis enforcement. Local jurisdictions will receive funds based on the historical number of cannabis possession charges in their areas and must develop plans in consultation with stakeholders, including those from impacted communities, to distribute these funds for initiatives such as behavioral health services, education, housing assistance, job training, and other programs that benefit low-income and disproportionately impacted communities. The bill also clarifies that money from the fund cannot be used for law enforcement and must be supplemental to, not replace, existing local government funding. The changes are set to take effect on October 1, 2026.

Budget and Finance

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/SB0217?ys=2026RS