The segments below provide a brief overview of MACo’s work in the area of intergovernmental relations in the 2022 General Assembly.
The unique circumstances surrounding the 444th legislative session, including necessary health and safety measures, posed a challenge for lawmakers and advocates alike. Yet, despite the unusual circumstances, MACo’s advocacy still led to more positive outcomes for its members.
Follow these links for more coverage on our Conduit Street blog and Legislative Database.
Cannabis
MACo submitted a letter of information for SB 833. This bill Required the Natalie M. LaPrade Medical Cannabis Commission to conduct a baseline study of cannabis use in the State; establishing the Cannabis Business Assistance Fund in the Department of Commerce to provide assistance to small, minority, and women-owned businesses entering the adult-use cannabis industry; altering certain provisions relating to penalties, charging procedures, expungement, shielding, and sentencing for certain marijuana-related offenses; legalizing the use and possession of marijuana under certain circumstances; etc. SB 833 Cannabis – Legalization and Regulation failed in the General Assembly.
Bill Information I MACo Coverage
MACo submitted a letter of information for SB 692. This bill would legalize the use and possession of a certain amount of cannabis by an individual who is at least 21 years of age; providing for the clearing of criminal records and disposition of certain charges relating to the use and possession of cannabis; and establishing a system for the regulation and taxation of the market for the production and sale of cannabis in the State. SB 692 Cannabis – Legalization and Regulation (Cannabis Legalization and Reparations for the War on Drugs Act) failed in the General Assembly.
Bill Information I MACo Coverage
MACo submitted a letter of information for HB 837. This bill would require the Natalie M. LaPrade Medical Cannabis Commission, in consultation with certain stakeholders, to conduct a baseline study of cannabis use in the State by March 1, 2023; altering certain provisions relating to penalties, charging procedures, expungement, shielding, and sentencing for certain offenses involving cannabis; legalizing the use and possession of a certain quantity of cannabis by an individual who is at least 21 years old; establishing the Cannabis Public Health Advisory Council and a Cannabis Public Health Fund; etc. HB 837 Cannabis Reform passed the General Assembly and awaits the Governor’s signature.
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Changes to Local Laws
MACo supported HB1428. The bill would alter the notice requirements in code counties for bill hearings and passage of bills. HB 1428 Code Counties – Legislative Procedure – Notice Requirements failed in the General Assembly.
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MACo supported HB 427/SB 790 with amendments. The bill would prohibit a person from obstructing or impeding or attempting to obstruct or impede an official proceeding of the Executive or Legislative Branch. HB 427/SB 790 Criminal Law – Executive or Legislative Proceedings – Obstruction failed in the General Assembly.
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MACo opposed HB 42. This bill would require the county commissioners or county council to approve a certain referendum request if a valid petition to incorporate a certain area as a municipality is presented by not less than 40% of the registered voters who are residents of the area proposed to be incorporated. HB 42 Municipal Incorporation – County Commissioners or County Council – Required Consideration of Referendum Request failed in the General Assembly.
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