Maryland Medical Marijuana

The ninth state to allow Medical Marijuana as an affirmative defense, Maryland Medical Marijuana law is as bare bones as it gets. Maryland Medical Marijuana laws only have literature regarding medical need as a defense against prosecution and imprisonment for individuals who have less than one ounce of usable cannabis. However, there is still a possible maximum penalty of $100 for those using medical need as their defense of marijuana or paraphernalia possession.

As Medical Marijuana Maryland law is only for defense from prosecution, there is no formalized application or registration process. In order to be protected, a patient must prove--via written certification from a licensed physician—they were recommended for the use of medical marijuana. What exactly qualifies as a valid, written physician’s certification of eligibility or qualifying condition is not stated in Maryland Medical Marijuana Laws.

Protection under Medical Marijuana Maryland laws are limited to individuals who are in possession of less than one ounce of usable cannabis, and has no information regarding cultivation or distribution. In addition, no information is provided regarding the patient and caregiver relationship. No age restrictions are discussed, nor housing or employment protection, or insurance reimbursement. Finally, any individuals protected or registered in other states have any protection from marijuana possession in Maryland.