MARYLAND

First social-equity-only license lotteries

The Maryland Cannabis Administration runs the nation’s first licensing lotteries open exclusively to social-equity applicants, issuing 205 grower, processor, and dispensary licenses across rounds in March and June 2024.

Adult-use retail sales begin

Existing medical dispensaries convert to dual licenses and begin adult-use sales the same day legalization takes effect — one of the fastest voter-approval-to-retail transitions in the country. Adults 21+ may possess 1.5 oz and grow two plants. A 9% sales tax applies.

Moore signs Cannabis Reform Act

Gov. Wes Moore signs the Cannabis Reform Act (HB 556 / SB 516), creating the statutory framework for adult-use sales and establishing the Maryland Cannabis Administration to oversee both medical and adult-use programs.

Voters approve Question 4

Maryland voters legalize adult-use cannabis by constitutional referendum, 65.5% in favor, winning all but one county. Takes effect July 1, 2023.

Medical cannabis sales begin

Maryland’s first licensed medical cannabis sales launch, roughly four years after the program was authorized, building the dispensary infrastructure later converted to adult-use.

Medical cannabis program authorized

The legislature establishes Maryland’s medical cannabis program and the Maryland Medical Cannabis Commission, though licensing and sales take years to come online.