Maryland

Maryland legalized medical cannabis in 2013 under the Natalie M. LaPrade Medical Cannabis Commission Act and adult-use cannabis in 2022 via Question 4 (constitutional amendment), with enabling legislation enacted in 2023. Adult-use retail sales began July 1, 2023. The Maryland Cannabis Administration (MCA) regulates all licensing and enforcement. In fiscal year 2025, cannabis sales reached $1.16 billion, with approximately $874 million from adult-use sales generating $78.7 million in excise tax revenue. The state projects 375 dispensary licenses and aims to open 60 new businesses by October 2026. Of 192 conditional licenses awarded to social equity applicants, only 10 were operational as of October 2025 due to capitalization and real estate challenges. Maryland imposes a 9% adult-use cannabis sales tax. Adult-use license conversions for existing medical businesses began in February 2026.