Is Marijuana Legal in Maryland?

Did you know that the number of pot smokers in America is 16% of the population? 

The state of Maryland is yet another state that has legalized the use of Marijuana. Marijuana has been in the news a great deal over the past two decades. Even though many states have made it legal, there are struggles with federal law.

Few understand what is permitted and not and the real risks. So, is marijuana legal in Maryland? Read on to find out.

Is Marijuana Legal in Maryland?

Maryland is one of the 17 states in the United States that have approved marijuana for specific medical purposes. Patients who qualify for the state’s medical cannabis program can legally purchase and possess marijuana. 

Moreover, Maryland has decriminalized the possession of small amount of marijuana. It has reduced the penalties for possession and cultivation. Maryland marijuana laws allow individuals 21 years and older to have, use and buy limited amounts of marijuana legally. 

But, the use of recreational marijuana in Maryland is still prohibited. Individuals caught possessing more than the recommended amount can be arrested. It would be a felony against them.

Maryland has a complex legal status where they encourage the medical usage of marijuana. But those found soliciting and using marijuana recreationally can get punished.

Maryland Recreational Marijuana

Recreational marijuana is still not legal in Maryland. However, the state decriminalized possession of less than 10 grams in 2014. This removes the criminal penalties for such activity. 

Possessing up to one ounce of marijuana is a civil infraction with a fine of up to $100 for a first offense. Consumption of marijuana in public is a misdemeanor. Maryland does, however, allow for medical marijuana. It has established a medical cannabis commission to oversee the program. 

The state is asking for public input on potential regulations for recreational marijuana sales. Although it is not yet legal, Maryland might see recreational marijuana sales become legal soon.

Maryland Medical Marijuana Program

The legalization of Marijuana in Maryland was in 2014. It legalized the medical use of cannabis for medicinal purposes. The passage of the Maryland Medical Cannabis Program has established the state’s legal framework for the licensing, regulation, and distribution of medical marijuana. 

The program provides for the use of marijuana, like in Amedicanna, for certain qualifying medical conditions. Also, only if recommended by a certified physician. The program regulates cannabis dispensaries, cultivation sites, processor entities, independent testing laboratories, and academic medical research centers. 

They allow dispensaries up to 95 locations throughout the state. There is a limit to selling only products tested and determined safe for medical use. Meanwhile, patients can obtain medical marijuana from licensed dispensaries. 

They can also get it via home cultivation. A personal caregiver can also provide patients if they meet specific criteria. They can get it if they have a medical cannabis ID card.

Learn More About Marijuana in Maryland

Marijuana is decriminalized in Maryland, and medical marijuana is allowed to be used but is not legal for recreational use. In this guide, question, “Is marijuana legal in Maryland?” has been answered. Maryland is one of the many states pushing for recreational marijuana legalization.

But we must be proactive and contact our lawmakers to showcase the proper support for this much-needed change. Join the movement and get educated – together, we can make a difference. 

If you find this guide useful? Feel free to check out some of our other posts for more news and information.