Dozens of new laws will go into effect today in Maryland including ones providing tax cuts for veterans and cash to local police departments for the purchase of body-worn cameras. However, the most significant new law to start in the state on Saturday may involve the use of recreational marijuana.
The Maryland General Assembly passed the "Cannabis Reform Act" for "adult use" in April (HB556/SB516) and Governor Wes Moore signed the new law on May 3, 2023. The new law also formally established the Maryland Cannabis Administration, previously known as the Maryland Medical Cannabis Commission.
In preparation for the new law, the Maryland Cannabis Administration has prepared a toolkit to encourage the "responsible use" of marijuana. The toolkit includes information about the known health impact of marijuana use on pregnancies, purchase and possession of cannabis products, smoke-free spaces (parks, schools, streets/sidewalks), and legal reminders about driving under the influence of marijuana.
In Maryland, the public use of recreational marijuana is limited to those who are 21 years old or older.
