Starting on July 1, 2023, adults age 21 and older will be able to buy cannabis in Maryland from recreational dispensaries. This means that the general public will now be able to purchase vapes, gummies, pre-rolled joints, edibles and more from about 100 dispensaries statewide.

It is expected that dispensaries are going to be quite busy from now on. For example, Missouri had less than 100 days to get its recreational industry up and running, with sales starting early February. Nearly instantly, monthly cannabis sales tripled and have since stayed at that level.

However, there are a number of key benefits to keeping a Maryland Medical Cannabis Card (MMCC).

Access

Recreational cannabis users should expect to see long lines, especially in the beginning. However, medical patients can expect to see their usual wait times.

Amount

Simply, medical patients will be allowed to purchase and possess more cannabis than recreational users. For example, the medical allotment is more than double that of the recreational allotment. Similarly, medical patients can carry up to 4 ounces (or more with permission from their provider), whereas recreational users will be limited to 1.5 ounces.

Wider Selection

Medical patients will have access to a larger and wider variety of cannabis products, especially for treating specific health conditions. Non-medical patients will have access to a smaller menu, with a limited selection of products and strains. For example, medical patients will likely have access to more potent or medically-minded products such as RSO, dabs, or CBD blends.

Cost

Recreational cannabis will be charged a 9% tax, whereas medical cannabis sales are tax free. Plus, recreational cannabis will likely be more expensive than medical.

Protection

One of the most important benefits of getting a medical card is the legal protection it provides, including encounters with the law. Cardholder are protected as long as they possess an amount under the legal limit and no laws are broken, such as driving under the influence. And while workplace policies vary, having a medical card may offer some kind of protection for testing positive for THC.

Ease

Medical cannabis became legal in 2014, allowing the industry time to get its footing and flourish. It is expected that recreational cannabis dispensaries (or even medical dispensaries who have added recreational cannabis) will need some time to find their flow.

Ultimately, the decision to retain or acquire a Maryland Medical Cannabis Card (MMCC) will depend on an individual’s needs and preferences. If you have a qualifying medical condition, it may be beneficial to retain medical status for access to a wider range of products, lower prices and shorter wait times. However, if you are an adult over 21 without a medical condition and expect to use cannabis recreationally, a MMMC card may not be necessary.

Sources:
Dugar, Dr Anand. Why Getting a Maryland Medical Card Is Still a Good Idea Even with Recreational On Its Way. Green Health Docs, 23 Nov. 2022.

Duncan, Rachel. Recreational Cannabis in Maryland — How Much & What You Can Buy. WBAL, 26 June 2023.

‘It’s Going to Be Hot’: Maryland Cannabis Firms Stockpile and Staff up for Big Demand Starting Saturday.” Baltimore Sun, 25 June 2023.