Those 21 and older in Maryland are just a few days away from being able to legally purchase and grow marijuana for recreational purposes.
Starting July 1, it will be legal for those 21+ to possess up to 1.5 ounces of marijuana, and grow up to four plants. Criminal penalties for possessing up to 2.5 ounces will also be removed.
Also starting July 1, at least 100 medical marijuana dispensaries are expected to become dual outlets that sell both medical and recreational marijuana. Standalone recreational marijuana stores are expected to start opening next year.
The law allows those 21+ to share up to 1.5 ounces of marijuana to another adult 21+, as long as they are paid for it.
The legalization law was approved by voters in November, with regulations finalized by state lawmakers earlier this year through the passage of Senate Bill 516.
Under the new law the newly-created Maryland Cannabis Administration is tasked with industry regulations, while the Division of Cannabis Regulation and Enforcement in charge of reviewing, approving and issuing licenses for marijuana businesses. Marijuana will be taxed at 9%, with medical marijuana patients exempt.
Localities are not allowed to ban dual outlets that sell medical and recreational marijuana. They also cannot establish their own city-wide marijuana tax.
The full text of the new law can be found by clicking here.
