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Bill

Bill

HB 151

Sales and Use Tax - Distribution of Cannabis Sales Tax Revenue - Maryland Veterans Trust Fund

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Joe Vogel

Maryland bill dedicates cannabis sales tax revenue to a dedicated Veterans Trust Fund for veteran services and benefits.

Hearing 1/29 at 1:00 p.m.
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 151

Legislative bill overview

HB 151 directs a portion of Maryland's cannabis sales tax revenue toward a dedicated Maryland Veterans Trust Fund. The bill establishes a new funding mechanism specifically for veteran services and benefits by allocating tax proceeds from legal cannabis sales. This creates an earmarked revenue stream separate from general appropriations.

Why is this important

Cannabis legalization generates significant tax revenue, and this bill proposes to dedicate those funds to veteran support rather than general state budgets. This could provide sustainable, growing funding for veteran healthcare, housing, mental health services, and other benefits without competing with other state priorities during budget negotiations.

Potential points of contention

  • Revenue allocation disputes – Other state agencies may argue cannabis tax revenue should fund general obligations, education, or substance abuse prevention programs rather than being earmarked for a single population
  • Fund adequacy and oversight – Questions about whether cannabis tax revenue will be sufficient and stable enough to meet veteran needs, plus how the trust fund will be managed and audited
  • Equity concerns – Some may argue resources should be distributed across multiple beneficiary groups or that cannabis legalization's social impacts warrant broader community reinvestment rather than singular focus

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

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