Maryland Cannabis: Tackling Pain Points from High Costs to Public Concerns

Maryland’s legalization of recreational cannabis has brought excitement to citizens of the state, but legalization has not been without challenges. While many residents and consumers welcome the positive changes, several issues have surfaced, affecting both consumers and business owners. Let’s explore some of the primary pain points in Maryland’s cannabis market, along with potential solutions to address them.

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1. Increased Instances of Driving Under the Influence

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The Problem:

‍Driving under the influence of cannabis is an emerging safety issue in Maryland. Like alcohol, cannabis can impair reaction times and judgment, making it risky for both drivers and pedestrians. State laws enforce penalties for driving high, including fines, license suspension, and even jail time for severe offenses.‍

Potential Solutions:

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• Enhanced Roadside Testing: Maryland has already increased roadside checks to identify impaired drivers, and further implementing reliable THC testing devices can help.
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• Public Awareness Campaigns: Similar to anti-drunk-driving efforts, educating the public on the dangers of cannabis-impaired driving can prevent risky behaviors.‍

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‍Current Penalties:

Maryland treats cannabis-impaired driving seriously, with legal repercussions that include license suspension and mandatory education programs. Increasing roadside checks has become an essential step in combating impaired driving.
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2. Out-of-State Buyers from Pennsylvania

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The Problem:‍

Due to limited access in nearby Pennsylvania, residents are crossing state lines to purchase cannabis in Maryland. This influx of out-of-state buyers adds strain to Maryland dispensaries, leading to longer wait times and supply shortages for local consumers.‍

Potential Solutions:

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• Resident-Only Hours or Loyalty Programs: Dispensaries could consider reserving certain hours for Maryland residents or offering loyalty programs that prioritize locals.
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• Improved Information Access: Maryland could increase the visibility of signage and educational information warning customers that while purchasing cannabis out of state is legal, crossing a state border with it is still illegal.

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3. Public Complaints About the Smell of Cannabis Smoke

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The Problem:‍

Public consumption has led to increased complaints about the odor of cannabis smoke, particularly in densely populated areas. For non-users, this can be a nuisance, impacting their quality of life.‍

Potential Solutions:

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• Designated Smoking Areas: Though smoking cannabis in a public place is prohibited, there is only a $50 fine for a first offense with increasing fines of up to $150 for repeat offenders. Many people are willing to risk it. If provided with designated locations where they can safely smoke, they are likely to adhere to them just as they do with tobacco.
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• Limit On-Site Consumption Locations: Licensed on-site consumption establishments provide a space for individuals to smoke cannabis outdoors on their premises. By limiting this to locations where there is no chance of the odor wafting out to nearby areas, it can reduce the cannabis smoke which annoys non-users.
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• Promotion of Edible and Vapor Products: Encouraging odorless alternatives, like edibles and vapor pens, can provide a middle ground that respects both users and non-users.

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4. High Cost of Cannabis Products

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The Problem:‍

Compared to other states, Maryland’s cannabis products tend to be pricier, partly due to high state taxes and limited competition. These higher prices can be prohibitive, especially for medical users or those who rely on cannabis for wellness.‍

Potential Solutions:

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• Tax Reforms and Subsidized Pricing: Maryland could consider tax adjustments or subsidized prices for medical users to make cannabis more accessible.
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• Increased Market Competition: Allowing more dispensaries could lead to price competition, helping to drive costs down for consumers.

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5. Long Wait Times at Dispensaries

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The Problem:‍

As demand continues to grow, many Maryland dispensaries experience long wait times, resulting in a less than ideal customer experience. Crowded stores and extended wait times make purchasing challenging for consumers, but streamlining cannabis operations can help.

‍Potential Solutions:

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• Online Ordering and Pickup Options: Allowing customers to order in advance for pickup can shorten in-store time and reduce congestion.
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• Operational Improvements: Dispensaries can implement tools like self-service kiosks and a people management software to improve efficiency and reduce wait times.
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6. Regulatory Compliance and Quality Control Issues

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The Problem:‍

Quality control has become a pressing issue, with reports of mold and contaminants in some products. Ensuring the safety of cannabis products is essential for consumer trust and public health.‍

Potential Solutions:

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• Stricter Testing Requirements: Maryland could mandate regular testing for all cannabis products to ensure they are free from contaminants. While the state is already heavy on certain testing, there are gaps that allow for quality control fails.
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• Transparency in Testing Results: Requiring dispensaries to make testing results publicly available would help consumers make informed decisions and maintain trust.

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Key Takeaways From Maryland’s Emerging Cannabis Industry

Despite the challenges, cannabis legalization has had a positive impact. Maryland has seen a decline in arrests for minor cannabis-related offenses, which has reduced strain on the criminal justice system. According to a recent Rockville City Council report, the decrease in cannabis arrests has freed police resources for other pressing matters, and tax revenue from cannabis sales is projected to support the state budget.

As Maryland’s cannabis market matures, a balance of regulatory adjustments, community involvement, and business solutions can help address these pain points. With careful management, the cannabis industry has the potential to bring economic and social benefits to Maryland while enhancing safety and quality for everyone involved.

Want to learn more about how KayaPush can help streamline your cannabis dispensary operations and compliance? Book a demo today to see just how strain-free HR can be.