On the ballot this November: Cannabis
Maryland is among a handful of states where voters will determine whether or not recreational adult-use of marijuana will be legalized.
Read more from NPR: Voters in some of the most conservative states to weigh in on recreational pot
Insight from Bill Huber, Of Counsel at Nemphos Braue:
“Do you favor the legalization of the use of cannabis by an individual who is at least 21 years of age on or after July 1st, 2023, in the State of Maryland?” That is the question voters will be asked through a referendum, known as “Issue #4”, on the general election ballot this November. A recent poll supported by the Washington Post and University of Maryland finds that 73% of Maryland voters surveyed favor legalization; and of those, 87% of all voters under 40 surveyed favored legalization.
Maryland has followed the standard approach to legalization of cannabis. First comes de-criminalization, then legalization of a medical market, and ultimately extending legalization into an adult-use market. However, it has been rare to see a state with such strong support from its voters at such an early stage. When the final legislation and operational regulations become finalized, it is expected to include an expungement opportunity for those who have been convicted of simple cannabis possession, and an opportunity for those who are currently serving time to have their sentences reconsidered.
