The State of Cannabis in Maryland: A Comprehensive Overview
Maryland has been a state at the forefront of marijuana legalization efforts, both for medical and recreational purposes. With its recent marijuana laws, the state has made significant strides in becoming a welcoming destination for cannabis enthusiasts, both local and visiting from afar. In this article, we will explore the current state of marijuana laws in Maryland, including its recreational and medical marijuana programs, the available marijuana-related businesses, and activities that are worth checking out.
Maryland’s Recreational and Medical Marijuana Laws: In 2014, Maryland became one of the first states in the U.S. to legalize medical marijuana, and in 2019, the state joined the growing list of states legalizing recreational use. Under the current laws, adults aged 21 and above can legally possess up to one ounce of marijuana and grow up to four plants at home for personal use. Medical marijuana patients can also possess up to four ounces of marijuana or products containing equivalent amounts of THC. However, it is still illegal to consume cannabis in public or operate a vehicle under the influence of marijuana.
Marijuana-related Businesses and Activities: Maryland has a growing marijuana industry, with a wide range of businesses catering to both recreational and medical users. Here are some of the marijuana-related businesses and activities worth checking out:
- Dispensaries: Maryland has over 100 dispensaries licensed to sell medical marijuana products. These dispensaries offer a wide range of cannabis products, including flower, edibles, tinctures, and topicals. Prices can vary depending on the product and location.
- Smoke Shops: Smoke shops are becoming increasingly popular in Maryland, offering a variety of smoking accessories and paraphernalia.
- Tours: Maryland has cannabis tour companies that offer guided tours of dispensaries, grow operations, and other cannabis-related businesses. Prices vary depending on the tour and location.
- Cooking Classes: Some cannabis cooking classes are available in Maryland, where participants can learn to make their own cannabis-infused edibles.
- Festivals: Maryland hosts several cannabis festivals throughout the year, including the annual National Cannabis Festival, which features live music, vendor booths, and educational seminars.
Tourist Visiting Maryland: Tourists visiting Maryland can take advantage of the state’s progressive marijuana laws and explore the local cannabis culture. However, visitors should be aware that while Maryland allows both medical and recreational marijuana use, it is still illegal under federal law. Tourists can legally possess and consume marijuana in Maryland, but they should not cross state lines with marijuana products.
Maryland has made significant progress in legalizing marijuana for both medical and recreational use, creating a thriving cannabis industry. With its growing list of marijuana-related businesses and activities, Maryland has become a popular destination for cannabis enthusiasts, both local and from afar. However, the state’s medical marijuana program has been delayed due to a lack of diversity within the industry. Despite this setback, Maryland remains committed to expanding its marijuana industry and providing a welcoming environment for all cannabis users.
You may also enjoy this page on marijuana laws and activities in Washington D.C