The oldest city in Maryland, Baltimore manages to seamlessly combine history with the modern world. Attractions such as the National Aquarium compete with the Inner Harbor, which showcases historic ships and other historical features.
But one area where this stunning city has not kept up with the changes is in its treatment of marijuana. The birthplace of the Star-Spangled Banner and the National Anthem is still old-fashioned when it comes to weed.
If you’re considering lighting up with medical marijuana in Baltimore or using cannabis in any form, here are some essential rules you should know first.
1. What’s Baltimore’s Stance on Weed?
As of early 2022, Maryland is among the many states that allow medical marijuana only. To partake of weed legally, you must have an MMJ card. Caregivers must be registered with the Maryland Medical Cannabis Commission.
Recreational use of cannabis is still forbidden, but first-time possession of fewer than 10 grams is only a civil offense. So, that’s a move in the right direction.
Since 18 states have already legalized recreational weed, too, though, Maryland is still behind the times. Users in Baltimore who want to buy weed must go through a dispensary with their active MMJ card.
Need an MMJ card that’s legal to use in Baltimore? Check out MetroXMD’s instructions on how to get started.
2. Where Can You Buy Weed in Baltimore?
Your card is active, and you’re ready to replenish your stash. Where should you go when you’re in the city limits of Baltimore?
Before you head out, keep in mind that the MMCC limits how much usable cannabis you can buy. Right now, your cap is set at 4 ounces of cannabis or 1 ounce of THC within a 30-day period.
Dispensaries don’t carry edible cannabis products, either. The state hasn’t permitted cannabis-infused food or beverages yet.
Finding a Licensed Dispensary Near You
So now that you know what to expect, where can you go to buy your weed? Baltimore is a massive city encompassing nearly 93 square miles. Within that radius, there are dozens of authorized dispensaries.
Start by checking out the updated MMCC Dispensary List here. You’ll see all the municipalities and counties that are within and around the city.
When you find one that’s close to you, check out the website or call ahead. Find out their hours, and make sure they have the product you want before you waste a trip.
Pro tip: Most dispensaries can only take cash. Federal regulations prohibit the use of credit cards on weed purchases.
3. Rules on Taxing Recreational and Medicinal Cannabis
Cannabis taxes follow state and federal regulations. They can vary substantially depending on where and what you buy.
In states that allow recreational marijuana, excise taxes make up a significant portion of the cost. The rates can average 15-20% or more!
But those taxes are then used to fund important programs that would otherwise have deficits.
In Colorado, for example, they use the Marijuana Tax Cash Fund. This covers law enforcement, substance abuse prevention and treatment programs, and more.
Excise taxes are also known as “sin taxes” because they’re placed on items that are considered “bad.” Cigarettes and alcohol are two examples.
There’s No Excise Tax in Maryland, Though
In Maryland, medical marijuana is the only legal cannabis. The state is losing out on the gains it could be making from excise taxes, but you’re safe from this hefty fee.
Medical cannabis products are only subject to regular state sales taxes and any local or county taxes that are in place.
4. Can You Bring Weed Into Baltimore?
If you’ve purchased cannabis from another city within the State of Maryland, you can transport it anywhere in the state. (You can’t use it unless you’re on private property, however).
Cannabis is prohibited to cross state lines, no matter where in the country you are. And flying into Baltimore-Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport with weed is illegal, too.
Airports are federal grounds with federal jurisdiction. At that level, any cannabis possession is illegal. If you’re caught with it, the consequences can vary depending on the airport’s guidelines.
Conclusion
When you're in Baltimore, you get to enjoy the gorgeous views, historical landmarks, and incredible overall dynamic. You don’t, however, get to use cannabis at the same time.
Knowing the rules about weed in the State of Maryland can help you stay on the right side of the law in one of the oldest cities in the country.
