The Maryland House of Delegates has given second-reading approval to a measure that would legalize the personal production of solventless cannabis concentrates while enabling certain individuals to seek reduced sentences for specific marijuana-related offenses.
A third and final reading on House Bill 413 is expected soon, which would send the bill to the Senate.
“A person who is at least 21 years old may manufacture a personal use amount of cannabis products or concentrated cannabis for personal use or adult sharing at a private residence if the manufacturing process does not involve the use of a volatile solvent,” states the proposed law.
Additionally, the legislation modifies sentencing laws for high-volume cannabis offenses, reducing penalties for volume dealers and drug kingpins involved in marijuana-related activities. The bill also allows certain individuals serving mandatory minimum sentences for specific cannabis-related offenses to apply for a sentence reduction under defined conditions.
Beyond cannabis provisions, HB 413 increases penalties for certain firearm-related crimes, making violations such as possessing a stolen firearm or trafficking firearms for illegal sale a felony rather than a misdemeanor.
With the bill clearing its second reading in the House, a final vote is expected soon. If approved, it will move to the Senate for further consideration.
