State of Maryland Archives: on Drugs

Alec Ross: Let's see response to medical marijuana

Ross wants to see the impact of the sale of medical marijuana before pushing further decriminalization. "If what we see is that by decriminalizing marijuana and/or by medicalizing it, violence has gone down significantly, absolutely we should move in that direction," Ross said. Source: WBAL-TV on 2018 Maryland gubernatorial race Jun 20, 2017

Arvin Vohra: Stop the war on drugs; end black market profits

When we end the War on Drugs, we erase black market profits overnight. Without those profits, drug cartels and dangerous criminals go out of business. We no longer imprison people for victimless drug crimes. Fathers and mothers can stay with their children, continue working, and provide for their families. Poverty rates decline and family bonds help children stay in school and out of trouble. We cut taxes by over $80 billion and that money goes back into your wallet. Source: 2018 Maryland Senate campaign website VoteVohra.com Dec 12, 2017

Arvin Vohra: Drugs should be as legal as tomatoes

Q: Do you support or oppose the statement, "Marijuana is a gateway drug"?

A: Oppose. If elected, I will sponsor legislation to end the war on drugs. I want drugs to be as legal as tomatoes, so that drug businesses can settle disputes by calling their credit card companies, instead of resorting to violence. I want to end all drug related violence; I want there to be no more innocent bystanders. That comes from legalizing all drugs, so that disputes can be handled without violence.

Source: OnTheIssues interview of 2018 Maryland Senate candidate Mar 30, 2018

Ashwani Jain: Legalize marijuana, expunge the records of those imprisoned

I will make Maryland move to fully legalize marijuana and allow for safe cultivation and distribution. This help generate needed revenue to pay for my Maryland Now Plan. By beginning/increasing cultivation to arable land in locations like Frederick County, the Upper Eastern Shore and even urban farms in Baltimore City, we can boost our agriculture sector and increase revenues for our local and state economy. Source: Medium.com posting on 2022 Maryland Gubernatorial race May 14, 2021

Ashwani Jain: Treat drug use as a public health crisis, not a crime

We need to treat drug use and addiction for what it truly is--not a crime that can be corrected with punishment, but a public health crisis requiring support for those suffering. Criminalizing opioid addiction disproportionately affects low-income communities, indigenous communities, and communities of color. We can move past the scourge of drug use in our communities but we need to do it through support for those most in need, rather than pushing those in need to have to hide their problem. Source: Medium.com posting on 2022 Maryland Gubernatorial race May 14, 2021

Ben Jealous: Recognizes the suffering caused from the opioid epidemic

Our state is in crisis. Communities across Maryland, from Baltimore to Oakland to Ocean City, La Plata, Elkton, Rockville, and everywhere in between are suffering from the scourge of addiction to heroin and other opioids. Source: 2018 Maryland Gubernatorial campaign website, BenJealous.com Jun 26, 2018

Ben Jealous: Fully legalize marijuana & collect license fees & taxes

Marijuana: Legalize or decriminalize marijuana?

Hogan: Mixed. Signed bill expanding medical marijuana industry. Wait and see before recreational legalization.

Jealous: Yes. Fully legalize marijuana, including diverse communities in licensing. Use tax revenues to pay for universal, full-day, pre-K education.

Source: 2018 CampusElect.org Issue Guide on Maryland Governor race Nov 1, 2018

Chris Chaffee: Close the borders; go after opioid dealers

We are witnessing a whole generation young adults in America being killed by this deadly drug . We must close the borders go after dealers pushing this dangerous drug.

[Link to Maryland Matters5/4/2022]: "Opioids Killed Thousands of Maryland Residents in 2021"

Source: Facebook posting on 2022 Maryland Senate race Jul 25, 2022

Chris Van Hollen: Allow those with drug convictions to get college tax credit

[On federal tax credit]: "The current law banning individuals with felony drug convictions from ever receiving a key tax credit toward enrolling in college violates the principle of giving people a second chance after they have served their time. That needs to change," Van Hollen said in a Facebook post celebrating the House panel's move. "We must provide students with every opportunity to succeed in achieving a higher education and pursuing a better life--this is one way we can do that." Source: Marijuana Moment on 2022 Maryland Senate race Sep 16, 2021

Dan Cox: Opposed to the legalization of marijuana

Q: What is your position on the legalization of marijuana?

A: Opposed.

Source: RedMaryland.com on 2022 Maryland Gubernatorial race Feb 24, 2018

Doug Gansler: Legalize cannabis and expunge convictions

Legalize cannabis and expunge convictions:

Cannabis should be legal in the United States, and we will legalize it here. But we know the burden of cannabis convictions historically fell on Black Marylanders and we must right that wrong by expunging convictions and using the revenue from legalized cannabis to support investment in Black communities.

Source: 2022 Maryland Gubernatorial campaign website DougGansler.com Dec 29, 2021

Doug Gansler: Drug use should be treated like a public health problem

Drug courts in every jurisdiction presenting alternatives to incarceration:

Drug use should be treated like a public health problem and not a problem of criminality, as we already know it is in white communities. The Gansler administration will create alternatives to incarceration for drug abuse throughout the state.

Source: 2022 Maryland Gubernatorial campaign website DougGansler.com Dec 29, 2021

Ian Schlakman: Marijuana isn't a gateway drug

Q: Do you support or oppose the statement, "Marijuana is a gateway drug"?

A: Strongly oppose

Source: OnTheIssues interview of 2018 Maryland Governor candidate Aug 21, 2018

Jamie Raskin: Voted YES on reducing penalties for possession of marijuana

SB 364 Reduces Penalties for Possession of Marijuana
Bill Passed House (78-55-8); passed Senate (34-8-5); Sen. Raskin voted YEA.

Reduces the penalty for a first offense of possession of less than 10 grams of marijuana to a fine of $100 from a maximum prison sentence of 90 days, a fine up to $500, or both.
Classifies the possession of less than 10 grams of marijuana as a civil offense punishable by a maximum fine of $250 for a second offense; and a maximum fine of $500 and for a third or subsequent offense.
Requires an individual less than 21 years of age who violates a provision of this bill or an individual older than 21 who commits a third or subsequent offense to perform the following actions:
Attend a drug education program;
Perform an assessment for substance abuse disorder; and
Enter substance abuse treatment.

Source: VoteSmart synopsis of 2013-2014 Maryland legislative records Mar 29, 2014

Jamie Raskin: Reduce mandatory sentencing for drug offenses

HB 121 Amends Mandatory Sentences for Certain Drug Offenses
passed Senate (40-7-0); Sen. Raskin voted YEA.

Repeals the mandatory sentence of at least 10 years imprisonment for first and second time convictions for distributing or dispensing a dangerous controlled substance;
Requires an individual convicted of drug offenses to be sentenced to at least 2 years imprisonment, and a maximum imprisonment of 20 years or a maximum fine of $100,000, for first or second offenses

Source: VoteSmart synopsis of 2015-2016 Maryland legislative records Apr 5, 2015

Kathy Szeliga: Keep mandatory sentencing for drug offenses

HB 121 Amends Mandatory Sentences for Certain Drug Offenses
Bill Passed House (85-55); Rep. Kathy Szeliga voted Nay.

Repeals the mandatory sentence of at least 10 years imprisonment for first and second time convictions for distributing or dispensing a dangerous controlled substance;
Requires an individual convicted of drug offenses to be sentenced to at least 2 years imprisonment, and a maximum imprisonment of 20 years or a maximum fine of $100,000, for first or second offenses

Source: VoteSmart synopsis of 2015-2016 Maryland voting records Mar 23, 2015

Kathy Szeliga: Voted NO on reducing penalties for possession of marijuana

SB 364 Reduces Penalties for Possession of Marijuana
Bill Passed House (78 - 55); Rep. Kathy Szeliga voted Nay.

Reduces the penalty for a first offense of possession of less than 10 grams of marijuana to a fine of $100 from a maximum prison sentence of 90 days, a fine up to $500, or both.
Classifies the possession of less than 10 grams of marijuana as a civil offense punishable by a maximum fine of $250 for a second offense; and a maximum fine of $500 and for a third or subsequent offense.
Requires an individual less than 21 years of age who violates a provision of this bill or an individual older than 21 who commits a third or subsequent offense to perform the following actions:
Attend a drug education program;
Perform an assessment for substance abuse disorder; and
Enter substance abuse treatment.

Source: VoteSmart synopsis of 2013-2014 Maryland voting records Apr 5, 2014

Kathy Szeliga: Tougher prosecution of high-level heroin traffickers

Governor Larry Hogan signed 207 bills into law at a signing ceremony at the Maryland State House in Annapolis. Said Governor Hogan. "Keeping Marylanders safe is our number one priority."

In December 2017, Governor Hogan proposed a series of crime initiatives to address repeat violent offenders and criminal gang enterprises terrorizing communities across the state. Throughout the legislative session, Governor Hogan worked with legislators from both parties to ensure these critical initiatives were passed.

Signed as part of the crime package was Senate Bill 1137, which expands the existing volume dealer law to include fentanyl and will allow for more effective prosecution of high-level heroin traffickers.

Legislative Outcome: Passed Senate 35-14-2 on March 22; passed House 135-5-9 on March 31; Del. Kathy Szeliga voted YES; signed by Gov. Hogan, April 24, 2018

Source: Gov. Hogan's press release on Maryland voting record SB.1137 Mar 31, 2018

Kelly M. Schulz: Voted NO on reducing penalties for possession of marijuana

SB 364 Reduces Penalties for Possession of Marijuana

Bill Passed House (78 - 55); Del. Kelly Schulz voted Nay.

Reduces the penalty for a first offense of possession of less than 10 grams of marijuana to a fine of $100 from a maximum prison sentence of 90 days, a fine up to $500, or both.
Classifies the possession of less than 10 grams of marijuana as a civil offense punishable by a maximum fine of $250 for a second offense; and a maximum fine of Attend a drug education program;
Perform an assessment for substance abuse disorder; and
Enter substance abuse treatment.

Source: VoteSmart synopsis of 2013-14 Maryland voting records SB364 Apr 5, 2014

Larry Hogan: Created the Heroin and Opioid Emergency Task Force

Three years ago, when not many people were paying any attention, we began to shine a spotlight on the rapidly growing heroin and opioid crisis. Just under the surface of every community across our state and across the nation, heroin and opioid abuse has been taking lives and tearing apart families and communities.

One of my first acts as governor was to create the Heroin and Opioid Emergency Task Force. We have gone after it from every angle including education, treatment, interdiction, and law enforcement. We have made strides, but this crisis continues to grow out of control all across our country.

We can--and we must--do more to save the lives of Marylanders. We need your help to enact the multi-pronged Heroin Prevention, Treatment, and Enforcement Initiative and to pass the Prescriber Limits Act of 2017 and the Distribution of Opioids Resulting in Death Act.

Source: 2017 State of the State address to Maryland Legislature Feb 1, 2017

Larry Hogan: New tools to pursue criminal organizations in drug trade

Governor Larry Hogan today joined 46 governors in signing the Compact to Fight Opioid Addiction, which was developed by and released today through the National Governors Association (NGA). "Far too many families and communities have experienced the devastation caused by heroin and opioid abuse," said Governor Hogan.

Governor Hogan established the Heroin and Opioid Emergency Task Force, which issued its final report In December 2015, containing 33 recommendations to address heroin and opioid abuse, including expanding access to treatment and boosting overdose prevention efforts. Funding has been included in the last two budgets to address heroin addiction and treatment, as well as additional measures that are part of the administration's criminal justice reform effort. The governor championed the Prescription Drug Monitoring Program, and provided state attorneys with new tools to pursue criminal organizations involved in drug trade.

Source: 2018 Maryland Governor campaign press release Jul 13, 2016

Larry Hogan: Tougher prosecution of high-level heroin traffickers

Governor Larry Hogan signed 207 bills into law at a signing ceremony at the Maryland State House in Annapolis. Said Governor Hogan. "Keeping Marylanders safe is our number one priority."

Legislative Outcome: Passed Senate 35-14-2 on March 22; passed House 135-5-9 on March 31; signed by Gov. Hogan, April 24, 2018

Source: 2018 Governor press release on Maryland voting record SB1137 Apr 24, 2018

Larry Hogan: Expand medical marijuana; wait on recreational marijuana

Marijuana: Legalize or decriminalize marijuana?

Hogan: Mixed. Signed bill expanding medical marijuana industry. Wait and see before recreational legalization.

Jealous: Yes. Fully legalize marijuana, including diverse communities in licensing. Use tax revenues to pay for universal, full-day, pre-K education.

Source: 2018 CampusElect.org Issue Guide on Maryland Governor race Nov 1, 2018

Martin O`Malley: Baltimore recovered from open-air drug markets

In a speech to New Hampshire Democrats on Saturday, Maryland Gov. Martin O'Malley (D) compared the distressed mind-set of Baltimore when he took over as mayor in 1999 to that of the nation today.

O'Malley told a crowd of close to 1,000 party activists here that the city he sought to lead had succumbed to a "culture of failure," with open-air drug markets, a soaring murder count and citizens "wallowing in a sense that nothing would work."

"Like in Baltimore in 1999, we as Americans are going through a cynical time of disbelief, a time with more excuses and ideology than cooperation or action," O'Malley said in his keynote address at the annual Jefferson-Jackson dinner. "We seem to have lost the shared conviction we once had that we actually have the ability to make things better together. There is a big difference between the America we carry in our hearts, and the America we see in our headlines."

Source: Washington Post on 2014 Maryland gubernatorial race Nov 17, 2013

Martin O`Malley: Executive Order to address this heroin epidemic

Throughout our state, I hear the devastating stories from our families and friends who hurt from the devastation heroin has wreaked on our communities. From our smallest town to our biggest city, it has become an epidemic, and it is destroying lives. I have tasked Lt. Governor Rutherford with bringing together all of the stakeholders in order to come up with a plan to tackle this emergency. Later this month, we will execute an executive order to address this heroin epidemic. Source: State of the State address to 2015 Maryland Legislature Feb 4, 2015

Peter Franchot: If legalized wants benefits to go to areas impacted in past

If recreational marijuana is legalized in a ballot initiative, the comptroller said he would focus on ensuring it would help economic growth in areas of the state disproportionately affected by enforcement for cannabis-related offenses and addresses past criminal justice inequities. Source: WJZ (CBS Local) on 2022 Maryland Gubernatorial race Oct 2, 2021

Richard Douglas: Served as counter-narcotics deputy under George W. Bush

In the George W. Bush Administration, Rich was deputy assistant secretary of defense for counter-narcotics and counter-proliferation. Rich is an Iraq veteran and also served as senior lawyer at three U.S. Senate committees, working for principled legends like the late Jesse Helms. One of the few to serve on Capitol Hill with experience in both the mechanical trades and the armed forces, Rich is genuinely alarmed over Congress's abandonment of American workers. Source: 2016 Campaign website for MD Senate, DouglasMaryland.com Nov 11, 2015

Richard Madaleno: Allow petitioning for expunging marijuana arrest record

Voted YES on allowing parents or guardians of minor children to apply on their behalf to outpatient alcohol or drug abuse programs
Voted YES on allowing persons convicted of possession of marijuana to petition for expungement of record
Voted YES on no longer requiring ex-offenders to be tested for drugs

Source: OnTheIssues interview of 2018 Maryland Governor candidate Jun 1, 2018

Richard Madaleno: Reduce mandatory sentencing for drug offenses

HB 121 Amends Mandatory Sentences for Certain Drug Offenses
passed Senate (40-7-0); Sen. Richard Madaleno voted YEA.

Repeals the mandatory sentence of at least 10 years imprisonment for first and second time convictions for distributing or dispensing a dangerous controlled substance;
Requires an individual convicted of drug offenses to be sentenced to at least 2 years imprisonment, and a maximum imprisonment of 20 years or a maximum fine of $100,000, for first or second offenses

Source: VoteSmart synopsis of 2015-2016 Maryland legislative records Apr 5, 2015

Richard Madaleno: Voted YES on reducing penalties for possession of marijuana

SB 364 Reduces Penalties for Possession of Marijuana
Bill Passed House (78-55-8); passed Senate (34-8-5); Sen. Madaleno voted YEA.

Reduces the penalty for a first offense of possession of less than 10 grams of marijuana to a fine of $100 from a maximum prison sentence of 90 days, a fine up to $500, or both.
Classifies the possession of less than 10 grams of marijuana as a civil offense punishable by a maximum fine of $250 for a second offense; and a maximum fine of $500 and for a third or subsequent offense.
Requires an individual less than 21 years of age who violates a provision of this bill or an individual older than 21 who commits a third or subsequent offense to perform the following actions:
Attend a drug education program;
Perform an assessment for substance abuse disorder; and
Enter substance abuse treatment.

Source: VoteSmart synopsis of 2013-2014 Maryland legislative records Mar 29, 2014

Richard Madaleno: Opioid epidemic is health issue, not criminal one

We have a prescription opioid and heroin crisis in our state--a public health crisis that we ineffectively treat as a law enforcement issue. Entire communities across our state are being hollowed out. There are economic and social issues feeding this epidemic that we must address, but before and above all else, we must ensure that those in the grips of addiction get the help they need, and that their families and communities are supported. Source: 2018 Maryland Gubernatorial website MadalenoForMaryland.com Aug 8, 2017

Richard Madaleno: Co-sponsored marijuana legalization bill

Drug prohibition has led to a number of "maybe unintended, but quite negative consequences" for the state. Marijuana violations have entangled "too many young people" in the criminal justice system, and prosecution for marijuana possession disproportionately affects black communities despite similar usage. "The war on drugs has unfortunately failed," Madaleno said. "I just think it's time that we take a different approach, one that says this product can be regulated." Source: The Diamondback (U.MD.) on 2018 Maryland Gubernatorial race Mar 2, 2017

Richard Madaleno: Tougher prosecution of high-level heroin traffickers

Governor Larry Hogan signed 207 bills into law at a signing ceremony at the Maryland State House in Annapolis. Said Governor Hogan. "Keeping Marylanders safe is our number one priority."

Legislative Outcome: Passed Senate 35-14-2 on March 22; Sen. Richard Madaleno voted YES; passed House 135-5-9 on March 31; signed by Gov. Hogan, April 24, 2018

Source: Gov. Hogan's press release on Maryland voting record SB.1137 Mar 22, 2018

Rushern Baker: Those hit by war on drugs owed windfall from legalization

The communities hardest hit by the war on drugs are owed the financial windfall that will come from legalization. That's why we support legalizing cannabis for adult use while ensuring that minority and women-owned businesses are guaranteed an opportunity to receive dispensary licenses. Furthermore, we are proposing that tax revenue from legal cannabis be returned to these communities in the form of direct economic impact payments. Source: 2022 Maryland Governor campaign website RushernBaker.com Jun 24, 2022

Shawn Quinn: Marijuana isn't a gateway drug

Q: Do you support or oppose the statement, "Marijuana is a gateway drug"?

A: Strongly oppose

Source: OnTheIssues interview of 2018 Maryland Governor candidate May 13, 2018

Thomas Perez: Legalization means jobs, revenue; address past injustice

With full legalization of recreational marijuana Maryland will be able to regulate the industry, creating good jobs, helping small businesses, and generating significant revenue. Legalizing cannabis is also an important step towards addressing social equity and racial injustices. Any measure that legalizes recreational marijuana must also allow for expungement and release for individuals previously incarcerated for marijuana-related charges. Source: 2021 Maryland Governor campaign website TomPerez.com Jul 18, 2021

Thomas Perez: Both treatment and prevention to deal with opioid addiction

Opioid addiction is taking lives and tearing apart families and communities. Tom knows that we must work to help those suffering addiction and prevent others from becoming addicted in the first place. Tom will work to expand access to evidence-based addiction treatment services. However, recognizing that treatment is one part of what must be a multi-pronged approach to addressing the opioid epidemic, Tom is also committed to investing in harm reduction services, as well as prevention efforts. Source: 2021 Maryland Governor campaign website TomPerez.com Jul 18, 2021

Tony Campbell: States should make their own decisions on marijuana legality

Q: What is your position on the legalization of marijuana?

Campbell: I am not in favor of federal legalization of marijuana. However, I think marijuana does not need to be a schedule 1 drug. Our federal system allows for states to decide legality of marijuana within their borders. The Supreme Court has not decided to weigh-in on this issue yet. I am in favor of states making their own decisions at this point.

Source: RedMaryland.com on 2018 Maryland Senate race Apr 6, 2018

Wes Moore: Legalize cannabis, expunge possession convictions

Wes will legalize cannabis, expunge the records of anyone convicted of simple possession, and prioritize equitable access to this emerging industry. Source: 2022 Maryland Gubernatorial campaign website WesMoore.com Jul 24, 2022

Robin Ficker: Supports legalizing cannabis; expunge past records

Q: Do you support legalizing cannabis possession and use in Maryland? If yes, what steps do you support to provide redress to those individuals and communities that were targeted by police and prosecutors in past years when attempting to enforce laws against the use and non-violent distribution of marijuana?

A: Yes. Expunge their records. I am a defense attorney, having completed 40,000+ cases

Source: Our Revolution Q&A on 2022 Maryland Gubernatorial race Apr 16, 2022

Angela Alsobrooks: Blame rising crime rates on decriminalized marijuana

Marijuana

Angela Alsobrooks (D): Legal with limits. "What adults choose to do is their business." Has concern about "impact on youth." As county prosecutor, blamed rising crime rates on decriminalized marijuana.
Larry Hogan (R): Mixed. Let a companion bill to voter-approved legalization become law without his signature. In 2015 vetoed decriminalization. In 2016 vetoed decriminalization of possession of marijuana paraphernalia.

Source: Guides.vote candidate survey on 2024 Maryland Senate race Aug 8, 2024

Angela Alsobrooks: Okay with adults using marijuana/ concerned on kids' impact

Prince George's County Executive Angela Alsobrooks' political committee is responsible for a phone poll asking detailed questions about local policy issues, including legalizing recreational marijuana. [The host of] Politics Hour on WAMU asked if Alsobrooks could discuss one poll question asking the respondent to rate possible legislation legalizing recreational marijuana use for adults.

"I think that what adults choose to do in their time -- be it smoke it, sprinkle it on cereal, whatever it is they do -- I am concerned on the kids' impact, the developmental impact, the ability to get a job. I think most people believe that adults and what they do with marijuana is the business of that adult."

Source: Route 1 Reporter on 2024 Maryland Senate race Feb 18, 2019

Larry Hogan: Rated C by NORML; no decriminalization; no expungement

NORML Politician Info:

Summary: MEDICAL USE /MANDATORY MINIMUM JAIL TIME FOR POSSESSION
Biography: Based on responses to our Maryland NORML's 2019 candidate survey and other available records, Governor Hogan vetoed paraphernalia decriminalization; Vetoed changing public consumption from criminal charge to civil fine; Did not sign expungement bill; Does not support adult use (only supports medical)
Position on Medical Marijuana: In 2019, Gov. Hogan signed House Bill 17, which for the first time permits state-authorized dispensaries to provide cannabis-infused edible products to qualified patients. It also authorizes academic institutions to obtain research-grade cannabis from state-licensed providers for conducting research trials. Hogan supports medical marijuana but has not called for full legalization.

Source: NORML Politician Info on 2024 Maryland Senate race Aug 8, 2024

Larry Hogan: 2016: vetoed decriminalization of marijuana paraphernalia

Marijuana

Angela Alsobrooks (D): Legal with limits. "What adults choose to do is their business." Has concern about "impact on youth." As county prosecutor, blamed rising crime rates on decriminalized marijuana.
Larry Hogan (R): Mixed. Let a companion bill to voter-approved legalization become law without his signature. In 2015 vetoed decriminalization. In 2016 vetoed decriminalization of possession of marijuana paraphernalia.

Source: Guides.vote candidate survey on 2024 Maryland Senate race Aug 8, 2024

David Trone: Rated A by NORML: end war on drugs & expunge records

NORML Politician Info:

Candidate: David Trone (D - MD): Holds office U.S. House District 6
Summary: LEGALIZE, TAX, AND REGULATE/DECRIMINALIZE/MEDICAL USE
Position on Marijuana Decriminalization: He supports ending the war on drugs and removing mandatory minimum sentences for drug offenders
Co-sponsored Legislation:
H.R.3617 - The MORE Act of 2021
H.R.6129 - Harnessing Opportunities by Pursuing Expungement Act of 2021
H.R.2864 - The Clean Slate Act of 2021
H.R.1996 - SAFE Banking Act of 2021
H.R.1595 - SAFE Banking Act of 2019
H.R.2843 - Marijuana Freedom and Opportunity Act (2019-2020)
H.R.3884 - Marijuana Opportunity Reinvestment and Expungement Act of 2019

Source: NORML "Smoke the Vote" on 2024 Maryland Senate race Aug 8, 2024

Johnny Olszewski: Voted YES on reducing penalties for possession of marijuana

SB 364 Reduces Penalties for Possession of Marijuana
Bill Passed House (78-55-8); passed Senate (34-8-5); Del.Olszewski voted YEA.

Reduces the penalty for a first offense of possession of less than 10 grams of marijuana to a fine of $100 from a maximum prison sentence of 90 days, a fine up to $500, or both.
Classifies the possession of less than 10 grams of marijuana as a civil offense punishable by a maximum fine of $250 for a second offense; and a maximum fine of $500 and for a third or subsequent offense.
Requires an individual less than 21 years of age who violates a provision of this bill or an individual older than 21 who commits a third or subsequent offense to perform the following actions:
Attend a drug education program;
Perform an assessment for substance abuse disorder; and
Enter substance abuse treatment.

Source: VoteSmart synopsis of 2013-2014 Maryland legislative records Mar 29, 2014

The above quotations are from State of Maryland Politicians: Archives. Click here for definitions & background information on Drugs. Click here for other issues (main summary page).
*2024 Presidential contenders on Drugs:*
	*Candidates for President & Vice-President:* V.P.Kamala Harris (D-CA) Robert F. Kennedy Jr.(I-CA) Chase Oliver(L-GA) Dr.Jill Stein(D-MA) Former Pres.Donald Trump(R-FL) Sen.J.D.Vance(R-OH) Gov.Tim Walz(D-MN) Dr.Cornel West(I-NJ)	*2024 presidential primary contenders:* Pres.Joe_Biden(D-DE) N.D.Gov.Doug Burgum(R) N.J.Gov.Chris_Christie(R) Fla.Gov.Ron_DeSantis(R) S.C.Gov.Nikki_Haley(R) Ark.Gov.Asa_Hutchinson(R) Former V.P.Mike Pence(R-IN) U.S.Rep.Dean_Phillips(D-MN) Vivek_Ramaswamy(R-OH) S.C.Sen.Tim_Scott(R)
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