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HB 132

Cannabis – On–Site Consumption Establishments and Cannabis Events

2025 Regular Session

HB 132 legalizes licensed on-site cannabis consumption venues and events in Maryland, creating new business types while establishing state regulatory oversight and taxation.

Hearing 2/18 at 1:00 p.m.
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 132

Legislative bill overview

HB 132 would establish regulations for on-site cannabis consumption establishments and special cannabis events in Maryland, allowing adults to consume cannabis in licensed venues beyond private residences. The bill creates a framework for licensing, operational standards, and taxation of these new business types within the state's existing cannabis regulatory structure.

Why is this important

This legislation addresses a gap in Maryland's cannabis market by legalizing social consumption spaces similar to those in other states like Colorado and California, potentially generating tax revenue and reducing public consumption violations. It could reshape cannabis commerce and public health approaches in the state while creating new business opportunities and regulatory compliance requirements.

Potential points of contention

  • Public health concerns: Questions about secondhand smoke exposure, impaired driving prevention, and health impacts of normalized consumption spaces in non-residential settings
  • Local control vs. state authority: Whether municipalities can opt-out or impose stricter regulations on these establishments in their jurisdictions
  • Equity and access: Concerns about licensing costs and whether social equity applicants from communities harmed by drug criminalization will have meaningful access to these business licenses
  • Federal-state conflict: Uncertainty about federal law enforcement priorities despite state legalization, and banking/insurance complications for these businesses

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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