As your constituent, I write to encourage you to legalize, tax, and regulate cannabis for adults in 2022. There are now 19 states + D.C. that have moved forward with legalization, and Maryland is lagging behind. As the House workgroup looks to refer the question of legalization to voters in 2022, it is critical that the legislature also passes legislation in 2022 to ensure legalization in achieved without delay, is equitable, and seeks to repair the past harms of prohibition. The longer Maryland waits to move forward with legalization, the longer it will subject its residents to the harms of prohibition and miss out on much needed economic growth. Will you support ending cannabis prohibition in 2022?

As your constituent, I am writing to ask that you support legalizing cannabis in 2022 without delay, and ensure legalization is rooted in equity and restorative justice. It is encouraging to see the House workgroup taking up referring the question of legalizing cannabis to voters in 2022. According to Civiqs polling, 73% of Marylanders support legalization. Still, the legislature must act to bring equitable legalization to Maryland. A referendum alone will not implement an adult-use cannabis program that is equitable. Implementing legislation that sets up the regulatory framework, tax structure, automatic expungement process, and provisions to ensure those who have been most impacted by prohibition benefit from the legal industry must also be taken up in 2022. The implementing bill could take effect if and when the voter referral passes. Can I count on you to support legalizing cannabis in 2022?

Every year, thousands of Marylanders are arrested for simple cannabis possession, resulting in a criminal record that affects access to employment, housing, financial aid, and other public benefits. While 19 other states, including neighboring Virginia, have legalized cannabis for adults, Maryland is lagging behind. A House workgroup has been convened to look at referring the question of legalization to voters in 2022 and to explore details. However, to ensure legalization is achieved immediately and is equitable, the legislature must also pass contingent implementing legislation in 2022. Please make 2022 the year Maryland legalizes cannabis for adults.