Happy day after election day! The big news from the DMV, aside from Maryland voters electing the state’s first Black governor, is also attributable to Maryland voters – Ballot Referendum 4. Over 65% of Maryland voters approved the Referendum which effectively amends the Maryland Constitution by adding Section XX, which makes it a constitutional right for individuals age 21 and older, to possess up to 1.5 ounces of cannabis or 12 grams of concentrates and grow up to 2 plants. The amendment will go into effect on July 1, 2023. Section XX also authorizes the General Assembly to provide a mechanism for the distribution, regulation and taxation of cannabis.
It is important to note that even though it will be legal to possess cannabis and cannabis concentrates on July 1, 2023, it will not be legal to sell any amount of cannabis until the General Assembly passes additional legislation. The General Assembly, however, does not need to wait until July 1, 2023 to pass legislation and can do so at any time during the legislative session. So if you are interested in entering Maryland’s adult-use cannabis market, it is time to begin planning for the application now. Contact K&M at (202) 846-7148, to find out more about how you can begin planning.
