Maryland legislation to codify that the use of marijuana by a parent or legal guardian does not by itself constitute child neglect has been signed into law by Governor Wes Moore.
House Bill 232 was passed overwhelmingly by both the House of Representatives and Senate last month. It passed the House 134 to 1, and was approved by the full Senate 36 to 11. Now the measure has been signed into law by Governor Wes Moore, and will take effect on July 1.
Filed by Delegate Nicole Williams, House Bill 232 will 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.”
Governor Moore signing the measure into law comes six months after voters legalized recreational marijuana for everyone 21 and older.
The full text of Senate Bill 653 can be found by clicking here.
