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Bill

HB 880

Cannabis - Prohibition on Outdoor Advertising - Repeal

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Jazz Lewis and 1 co-sponsor

Withdrawn bill would have eliminated Maryland's ban on outdoor cannabis advertising, allowing billboards and public signs to promote cannabis products.

Withdrawn by Sponsor
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 880

Legislative bill overview

HB 880 would repeal Maryland's prohibition on outdoor advertising for cannabis products, allowing dispensaries and cannabis businesses to advertise on billboards, signs, and other outdoor media. The bill was introduced in January 2025 but was withdrawn by its sponsor on February 19, 2025, before the scheduled hearing could take place.

Why is this important

Current advertising restrictions limit how cannabis businesses can market legally-sold products, potentially affecting their competitiveness compared to other regulated industries. Repealing these restrictions could increase visibility of cannabis products in public spaces, which has public health and community aesthetics implications, particularly regarding exposure to youth audiences.

Potential points of contention

  • Youth exposure concerns: Outdoor advertising is highly visible to minors, raising questions about whether relaxed restrictions could normalize cannabis use among young people despite age-restricted sales
  • Community character and public space: Residents and local governments may object to increased cannabis advertising in neighborhoods, shopping districts, and along highways
  • Regulatory consistency: Maryland's restrictions align with federal guidelines and some states' cautious approaches; repealing them could create disparities with neighboring jurisdictions' standards

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

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