Legislation allowing on-site cannabis consumption establishments and regulated cannabis events has been scheduled for a public hearing in the Maryland Senate.
Senate Bill 215 has been scheduled for a hearing in the Senate Finance Hearing on January 30 at 1pm. Companion measure House Bill 132 has been assigned to the House Economic Matters Committee, but not yet scheduled for a public hearing.
The legislation establishes detailed regulations for on-site consumption establishments, initially limiting license applications to social equity applicants until mid-2028. These establishments would be authorized to distribute, repackage, and process marijuana products, including cannabinoid beverages, exclusively for on-site consumption. However, indoor smoking of marijuana would remain prohibited. Local jurisdictions would have the authority to regulate operating hours, enforce zoning restrictions, or entirely ban these establishments.
The proposed legislation also addresses cannabis events, allowing the consumption and retail sale of marijuana products within designated, restricted areas. Event organizers must secure cannabis event registrations from the Maryland Cannabis Administration at least 60 days prior to the event. Vendor permits for these events, also initially limited to social equity licensees, would allow the sale of single-serving products, subject to rigorous manufacturing, testing, and labeling requirements. Events would incur a $500 daily fee, with additional vendor fees determined by attendance.
If enacted, these provisions would introduce new opportunities for legal marijuana consumption and commerce while maintaining a focus on local control.
If either Senate Bill 215 or House Bill 132 is passed by both the full House of Representatives and the Senate, it will be sent to Governor Wes Moore for consideration.
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