Maryland General Assembly passed House Bill 556 and Senate Bill 516, which develop a framework for Adult-Use Sales to begin on July 1, 2023. This means that adults, 21 and older, will be able to purchase cannabis products legally from a licensed dispensary for recreational use. There may be some confusion on what to expect come July 1, 2023, so we have gathered information on everything you need to know about adult-use cannabis legalization in Maryland.
What Does HB556/SB516 Do?
First and foremost, the bill allows individuals 21 and older to purchase cannabis products legally from a licensed dispensary. Existing medical cannabis dispensaries will be able to sell to adult consumers on July 1, if they choose to convert their license. Dispensary works will be offering both medical cannabis and adult-use cannabis. Check out our menu to see what we have to offer!
This legislation also allows the Maryland Cannabis Administration to issue additional grower, processor, and dispensary licenses, and new incubator licenses over two licensing rounds. This means more dispensaries will be able to open and provide a business to consumers.
How Can I Buy Cannabis Products? What Products Can I Purchase?
Starting July 1, licensed medical cannabis dispensaries in the State of Maryland will be able to sell to adult-use cannabis. A list of licensed dispensaries that converted their license will be posted on our website before July 1. Cannabis products are subject to a 9 % sales tax (the same as alcohol).
A person may purchase cannabis or cannabis products from a licensed dispensary if they display a government-issued photo ID at the point of sale that demonstrates they are 21 years or older. Individuals will only be able to purchase up to the personal use amount authorized under the law.
Who Will Regulate the Expanded Medical and Adult-Use Cannabis Industry?
This new legislation for adult-use cannabis legalization also establishes a new agency, the Maryland Cannabis Administration to regulate cannabis businesses in the State. Maryland Medical Cannabis Commission staff will transition to the new agency to provide continuity of operations for businesses and patients in the medical program. New regulations governing health, safety, and security will be enhanced to integrate the existing medical cannabis program regulations.
Is Cannabis Still Illegal at the Federal Level?
Yes, the use and possession of cannabis remains illegal under the Federal Controlled Substances Act of 1970 (CSA). States may allow adult use within their jurisdictions, but interstate transport is still prohibited under federal law. Cannabis possession also remains unlawful on federal land even within states that have legalized it. This includes federal buildings, national parks, military bases, etc.
My Local Convenience Store/gas Station Sells THC products. Are These Products Legal?
This legislation has established that any product containing more than 0.5 mg THC per serving and 2.5 mg THC per package may only be sold in a licensed cannabis dispensary. This requirement also extends to THC isomers like delta-8, delta-9, and delta-10. Make sure to check packaging prior to purchase to ensure that you are within the rights of the law.
How Much Cannabis Will I Legally Be Able to Possess?
Adults 21 years and older will be able to possess up to 1.5 ounces of cannabis flower, up to 12 grams of concentrated cannabis; or a total amount of cannabis products that do not exceed 750 mg of THC. This is known as the “personal use amount.”
How Does the New Law Keep Our Roads Safe?
Cannabis use in a motor vehicle (by a driver or passenger) and impaired driving remain illegal under Maryland law. Law enforcement officers can make a cannabis DUI arrest if they observe impairment. They will use a standard field sobriety testing (roadside test) method.
Best Marijuana Dispensary in Maryland
Adult-use cannabis legalization is a new concept for the State of Maryland and Dispensary Works is here to help! We expect to have longer than usual lines and wait times, we have prepared our system as best as possible to handle the additional volume but please have patience with our staff.
Dispensary Works is a Southern Maryland marijuana dispensary committed to providing the best cannabis product to patients and clients. Our highly trained staff is here to help you select the best cannabis for your particular needs. We are here to guide you as you uncover the world of marijuana. If you would like to learn more about who we are and what we do, contact us today!
