A bill that would clarify under law that the use of marijuana by a parent or legal guardian does not constitute child neglect has been passed by Maryland’s full Senate.

Senate Bill 653 was passed by the Maryland Senate by a vote of 34 to 11, moving it to the House Judiciary Committee. The proposed law, filed by Senator Jill P. Carter, would alter state law to clarify that the legal definition of child neglect:

“Does not include the use of cannabis by any parent or individual who has permanent or temporary care or custody or responsibility for supervision of the child unless, as a result of the use of cannabis:

(i) the child’s health or welfare is harmed or placed at substantial risk of harm; or

(ii) the child has suffered mental injury or been placed at substantial risk of mental injury.”

The proposed law’s passage in the Senate comes just shy of five months after voters decided to legalize marijuana for recreational use for everyone 21 and older.

The full text of Senate Bill 653 can be found by clicking here.

If the measure is passed by the House of Delegates it will be sent to Governor Wes Moore for consideration.