Effective July 1, 2023, adults 21+ can purchase cannabis from licensed dispensaries. MCA has developed materials for adults who choose to consume to “Be Informed, Be Responsible and Be Safe.” Cannabis and driving don’t mix, it should always be kept locked and away from children and pets, and smoking is not allowed anywhere in public- both indoors and outdoors.
Information Courtesy of the Maryland Cannabis Administration
This guide was developed by the Maryland Cannabis Administration to provide important information on the new adult-use cannabis laws and tips for informed, responsible, and safe consumption. The guide can be downloaded and printed for use by local jurisdictions and health departments, community partners, and other stakeholders. Additional educational materials are available on the Administration’s website, cannabis.maryland.gov.
Use: You can use cannabis in private homes and private property, but smoking cannabis in public is prohibited. This includes parks, streets and sidewalks, bars and restaurants, moving cars, and public transportation (e.g., buses, vans, trains, taxicabs, limousines). Property owners can ban the use of cannabis on privately-owned property. If you rent, read your rental agreement to see if there are restrictions. Most hotels do not allow guests to smoke cannabis in their hotel room. Ask the reception desk about the hotel’s policy. If you stay in a vacation rental, check with the property owner about the rules for your stay.
Amounts: You can purchase and possess up to 1.5 ounces of cannabis flower, 12 grams of concentrated cannabis, or a total amount of cannabis products that does not exceed 750 mg THC. This amount is known as the “personal use amount.” You can gift cannabis to adults 21 and older if the amount gifted falls within the personal use amount and no money, goods, or services are associated with the transfer.
Growing: You can grow two indoor plants per household, out of view. Importantly, landlords and property owners can prohibit growing cannabis on their properties
Driving: Cannabis use impairs your ability to drive safely. It can result in slower reaction time, coordination, and concentration. If you are impaired while driving, even as a certified patient with a medical card, a law enforcement officer can pull you over and conduct a sobriety test. You can receive a DUI citation. If you are transporting cannabis in your car or vehicle, it should be in the trunk or in a sealed package. You can’t consume cannabis in moving cars — this includes smoking, vaping and consumption of edibles.
Let’s keep Maryland safe. Make a plan before you consume cannabis, every time.
Travel: Cannabis remains illegal under federal law. You can’t use or possess cannabis on federal land (including federal buildings, national parks, military bases, etc.). You can’t transport cannabis across state lines, even if it’s between states where adult-use cannabis is legal. It is not legal to send cannabis through the U.S. mail.
Workplace: Check with your employer about their policies. The new law does not prevent employers from drug testing employees. Marylanders who are federal employees should follow federal employment policies related to cannabis possession and use.
Disposal: Proper cannabis disposal helps prevent accidental exposures, particularly by curious children or pets. To dispose of unused cannabis, crush or chop up remaining cannabis, put it in an empty container and mix with something unappealing (coffee grounds, soil, kitty litter), cover, seal and dispose of it in the trash.
Dosage: Flower Dose: 1 / inhalation Onset: 1-10 minutes / Duration: 1-6 hours … Vapes Dose: 1 inhalation / Onset: 1-10 minutes / Duration: 1-6 hours … Edibles Dose: 2.5 mg THC / Onset: 1-2 hours / Duration: 4-24 hours … Liquids/Beverages Dose: 2.5 mg THC / Onset: 1-2 hours / Duration: 4-24 hours *Suggested to avoid overconsumption. Formal guidelines have not been established.
Edibles: Always check the amount of THC on the label – edibles can look identical but have different strengths! You may need to cut an edible in half or quarters to consumer the dose you want. Effects from edibles are often delayed and last longer than smoking or vaping cannabis.
Safer Experience:
DO
Purchase regulated and tested cannabis from a licensed dispensary
Start with a low dose (1-2 puffs or 2.5 mg THC) and wait a few hours before consuming more
Ask your healthcare provider if you have medical concerns
DON’T
Mix cannabis with alcohol, tobacco, or other intoxicants or stimulants
Drive after consuming cannabis
Smoke in public spaces
Keep Away from Children and Pets: Keep all cannabis products locked up, out of reach, and out of sight Use a safe or lockbox (these may be available to purchase at dispensaries) Keep cannabis in its original, child-resistant packaging that displays the THC warning symbol.
Overconsumption: Hydrate. Drink plenty of water • Stay Calm and Rest. Nap or sleep in a safe place and wait for effects to subside • Take Deep Breaths. Regulating your breath helps calm the nervous system when experiencing overconsumption • Do Something that Comforts You. Listen to music, watch a show, or call a friend • Get Help. For a medical emergency, call the Maryland Poison Center (800-222-1222) or 911.
Need Help? Maryland Poison Center, 800-222-1222 • Pet Poison Hotline, 855-764-7661 (fee applies) • Mental health support, call or text 988 • Serious reaction, call 911
