On November 8th 2022, Maryland residents will have the opportunity to legalize adult use of recreational cannabis. Adults 21 and over, will be legally allowed to grow (with some limitations), purchase, and consume cannabis. Voting Yes on Question 4 will not only help those in need of holistic healing, but it will also benefit the entire state. Here are just a few ways legalizing recreational cannabis can help Maryland’s residents. 

Government Funding

Cannabis legalization is projected to bring in over $135 million in tax revenues. This money will help the state's economic growth, by funding public education, small businesses, and public services. This means more learning tools and books for school systems, more supplies for our small business friends, and more funding for those willing to serve and protect our community.

Crime reduction

 With the legalization of recreational cannabis, law enforcement will have more time combating violent crimes instead of policing cannabis possession. Maryland is one of the top 3 states in the country with the highest amount of cannabis possession incarcerations. With this legalization, it will expunge the record of all those charged and help them to get a fresh start on their lives. 

Job Creation

Recreational use will lead to a significant amount of new jobs created in your communities. Within the first three years of medical cannabis legalization, there were 4,381 new jobs created. Recreational use will create more demand for dispensaries, producers, and growers. In this ever-growing recreational market, the possibilities for individuals to find jobs that heal, help, and express their creativity in a lucrative way are increasing.

Reduce Opioid Deaths

Cannabis can be the answer to the growing opioid crisis. Baltimore is one of the highest ranked cities for opioid usage. Just last year there were a combined total of 3,409 deaths from fentanyl, heroin and other opiates. By legalizing recreational use, we can help people get pain relief, withdrawal relief, and ease anxiety and paranoia with the healing properties of cannabis. Neighborhoods with simply two cannabis dispensaries have a 21% decrease in opioid deaths.

So remember when you’re voting this term, legalizing adult use recreational cannabis will support Maryland's economic growth, job creation, reduction of crime, and help to put a dent in the opioid epidemic. Vote yes on Question 4 and to help your state and community. Click here to find your polling place and vote on November 8.