Cannabis in Maryland is legal for medical use and illegal for recreational use, but possession of 10 grams (3⁄8 oz) or less is decriminalized. In 2013, a state law was enacted to establish a state-regulated medical cannabis program. The program, known as the Natalie M. LaPrade Maryland Medical Cannabis Commission (MMCC) became operational on December 1, 2017. As of January 1st, 2023 thru June 30th, 2023, decriminalization will be temporarily expanded from possession of less than 1 oz (28 grams) to less than 1.5 oz (42 grams), prior to full legalized recreational use of 1.5 oz or less on July 1st, 2023 due to the passage of the 2022 Maryland Question 4 referendum.
A majority of voters approved the 2022 Maryland Question 4 referendum to legalize recreational use of cannabis on November 8, 2022 with 65.5% of voters in favor and 34.5% against. It will fully take effect on July 1, 2023. Under the new law, adults 21 and over will be permitted to grow up to two cannabis plants out of public view, and possess no more than 1.5oz of recreational cannabis on their person. Possession of between 1.5-2.5 oz will still be punishable by a civil fine of up to $250, and over 2.5 oz will be punishable by up to a $1000 fine and up to 6 months in jail. Additionally, a companion bill that was designed to be triggered upon passage of the referendum included a provision to automatically expunge all cases in which possession of cannabis was the only charge, as well as allow for individuals incarcerated for cannabis possession to petition for resentencing.
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