On January 30, Associate Director of Policy Karrington Anderson testified before the Finance Committee in support of SB 215 – Cannabis – On-site Consumption Establishment and Cannabis Events with amendments.
This bill allows the holder of a cannabis event registration to host certain cannabis events and authorizes counties to assess fees, authorize events, or restrict them within their jurisdictions.
MACo requested modest clarifying amendments to preserve local authority and ensure effective oversight. The bill should clarify that licensed cannabis events must adhere to any locally established restrictions or regulations, empowering counties to tailor rules based on specific needs and priorities.
Specifically, the legislation should explicitly state that any cannabis event authorized by the Maryland Cannabis Administration (MCA) must also comply with all applicable local permits and approvals. This safeguard will uphold counties’ ability to regulate events and ensure they align with community standards.
SB 215’s cross-file, HB 132, was heard on February 18 in the House Economic Matters Committee. Karrington Anderson testified in support of this bill with amendments.
More on MACo’s Advocacy:
