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Yes, cannabis edibles are legal in Maryland and the good part is that even recreational users can enjoy their favorite cannabis-filled edible goodies as long as they stay within the limit.
Maryland’s Cannabis Culture
Maryland is one of those US states that have legalized both medical and medical marijuana in the last decade. The state assembly passed the Maryland medical marijuana program in 2014. The Maryland Medical Marijuana Commission and the stateâs approval for recreational use of marijuana happened not long after. This shows that cannabis itself is now becoming an active part of Marylandâs culture and the lives of its people as we all progress into the future.
Understanding Maryland’s Cannabis Legalization
Maryland is one of those US states where both recreational and medical marijuana are legal for consumption. It totally depends upon your specific conditions and requirements when it comes to deciding which consumption category of cannabis will be more suitable for you.
Brief History of Cannabis Laws in Maryland
The history of cannabis legalization in Maryland is full of ups and downs. Back in 2010, Maryland had the fifth-highest cannabis-related arrest rate nationwide. But things changed dramatically when Maryland legalized medical marijuana in 2014.
The Adult Use of Marijuana Act
Not long after that, the residents of Maryland voted in favor of recreational cannabis legalization and the state legalized adult-use cannabis in 2022. Officially, the recreational cannabis laws became effective within the state starting from July 1, 2023.
The Legal Status of Edibles
Since the recreational cannabis laws are now active in Maryland, both recreational and medical marijuana users can now enjoy cannabis-filled edibles as they prefer.
Edibles in Maryland Regulations to Ensure Responsible Consumption
As per the state regulations, adults who are 21 or older can enjoy cannabis-infused edibles with each snack not exceeding the set 10 mg THC limit.
Key Regulations for Edible Consumption
Even though both medical and recreational marijuana users can now consume their favorite cannabis-infused edibles in Maryland, there are certain conditions and regulations that must be followed.
Age Restriction: 21 and Over
Only adult recreational marijuana users, who are 21 or older can legally possess and consume cannabis edibles. It is important to note that registered medical marijuana patients who are not yet 21 but are accompanied by a designated caregiver get an exemption from the set age limit.
Licensed Retailers: Buying from Authorized Sources
The state of Maryland has a network of licensed marijuana dispensaries from where you can easily get your desired cannabis-filled products. Getting goods from licensed outlets ensures access to quality products as well.
Packaging and Labeling: What to Look For
As per the state law, packaging for most of the cannabis-infused edible products is tear-resistant to ensure that these products donât fall into the hands of children. Products like bear-shaped gummies and worms are also not for sale within the state as these shapes may appeal to the kids.
THC Limits: Staying Within Legal Boundaries
As per the state law, each cannabis edible snack must not exceed the 10 mg THC limit.
Where You Can and Can’t Consume?
Having the right to legally consume cannabis-infused edibles doesnât mean that you can do it anywhere or anytime you prefer. As per the state law, there are certain conditions and areas where you canât consume cannabis edibles.
Public Consumption: Know the Restrictions
Even though adults who are 21 or older can possess cannabis in Maryland now, smoking marijuana or similar products is strictly illegal. However, thereâs a gray area regarding the consumption of cannabis edibles in public and the state needs to address this issue.
DUI Laws: Driving Under the Influence of Edibles
One of the major issues faced by Maryland law-enforcement agencies is the increasing number of individuals driving under the influence of marijuana and other similar products, even when the state law clearly mentions that it is illegal to do so.
Possession Limits: Staying within Legal Possession Limits
As per state law, adults can possess up to 1.5 ounces of cannabis flower and up to 12 grams of cannabis concentrate. The cannabis edibles will be considered the same as cannabis flowers and will have similar possession limits.
Where can I get edibles from in Maryland?
As mentioned earlier, the state of Maryland has a network of licensed cannabis dispensaries throughout the state. As a recreational or medical cannabis user, you can legally purchase the required goods from such dispensaries without any trouble. It is important to note that in terms of service and access to certain products, medical cannabis users will be given priority over recreational cannabis users.
Final Note
It is quite encouraging to witness that the state of Maryland is taking bold legislative decisions in favor of cannabis use across the state. A couple of decades ago, this almost seemed impossible, but now the only direction Maryland is looking towards on the matter is the future.