Rules and Regulations
In this section, we’ll unpack the details of permissible cannabis sharing, taking care to outline the consequences of exceeding the legal parameters. We will delve deep into the nuances of Maryland Code’s provisions on sharing cannabis, aiming to help you understand and abide by the laws. Furthermore, this section will explore why retaining a medical cannabis patient status may be advantageous, as we compare the differing allotments for medical and recreational use and the differences in product offerings, emphasizing the broader spectrum available to medical patients.
Sharing Cannabis
Starting from July 1, 2023, Maryland law permits sharing of cannabis among adults aged 21 or older. The crucial factor to remember here is that the quantity of cannabis being shared must not surpass what is considered as ‘personal use’. This is defined as 1.5 ounces of cannabis flower, 12 grams of concentrated cannabis, or a total amount of cannabis products containing 750 mg of THC. Equally important is the fact that no financial or other form of exchange can take place for cannabis.
Sharing amounts exceeding the ‘personal use’ limit or accepting payment in any form for cannabis can be deemed as possession with the intent to distribute. This action is strictly prohibited under Maryland law. If a person is caught and charged with this offense, they may face criminal charges, including penalties of up to three years in prison and/or a fine of $5000.
Furthermore, Maryland law contains regulations on the distribution of THC products. Unless a person has a specific license, they are prohibited from distributing any product intended for consumption or inhalation that contains more than 0.5 milligrams of THC per serving or 2.5 milligrams of THC per package. Breaking this rule is considered a misdemeanor, and if convicted, an offender may face a maximum fine of $5000.
If a person is licensed under Maryland Code § 36-401 and wishes to distribute THC-containing products, they must adhere to several crucial standards. These include manufacturing standards (Md. Code § 36-203), laboratory testing standards (Md. Code § 36-203), and packaging and labeling standards (Md. Code § 36-203).
Benefits of Remaining a Medical Patient
Medical cannabis products will continue to be untaxed, making them less expensive than recreational products which will incur a 9% tax. In addition, medical patients will continue to receive their standard allotment of 120/36 grams of flower/THC, significantly higher than the 42.5/12 grams limit set for recreational purchases.
A Closer Look at the Range of Available Products for Medical Patients
While the range of products available for recreational use will be limited to flower, vapes, and gummies with smaller amounts of THC, medical patients will retain access to the full range of products, including concentrates, waxes, and oils.
