On 2.7.2023 – LBS testified in support of House Bill 280 – Removing criminal penalties for the possession of cannabis and possession with the intent to distribute.
Speakers
- Yanet Amanuel – ACLU of MD
- Dayvon Love – Leaders of a Beautiful Struggle
- Michelle Hall – Office of the Public Defender
Removing criminal penalties for the possession of cannabis and possession with the intent to distribute.
The issue:
With the voters of Maryland voting to legalize recreational cannabis in the November 2022 General Election, people should not have to worry about being incarcerated for cannabis related offenses. But existing criminal penalties for possession above the 2.5oz civil possession amount and for possession with intent to distribute still present Marylanders with the possibility of being exposed to the criminal justice system as a result of cannabis.
What does the legislation do?
Given the history of law enforcement disproportionately charging Black people with these offenses, leaving these criminal penalties intact will only extend Black people’s exposure to incarceration. This bill removes criminal penalties for possession of cannabis, above the civil limit, and removes criminal penalties for possession with intent to distribute.
Bill Information
Important Dates
Previous Hearings
Bill Sponsors
Take Action
Community support is CRITICAL to get legislation passed.
