The Talbot County Council discussed a temporary pause on processing cannabis-related applications last night to ensure public safety during the implementation of the Maryland Cannabis Reform Act. The pause would allow the county to create proper zoning requirements and regulations to protect public health.
The Maryland Cannabis Reform Act, effective July 1, gives local governments the power to regulate adult-use cannabis. However, the county currently lacks specific regulations for non-medical cannabis. To address this, the proposed pause would provide time to establish appropriate rules that align with the state’s legislation.
The council believes that a coordinated effort is necessary among counties to implement cannabis legalization safely. Some municipalities within the county are also considering similar pauses, emphasizing the importance of a unified approach.
However, some council members question the need for a nine-month pause, suggesting that previous legislative and zoning issues were resolved more quickly. They argue that there is sufficient time to establish regulations without a pause, as licenses for consumption facilities won’t be issued until the following year.
The resolution, if approved, would temporarily halt the processing of cannabis-related applications. This would give the county an opportunity to develop proper zoning and regulations to ensure public health and safety.
As the council continues its discussions, the community awaits the decision. The proposed pause demonstrates the council’s commitment to responsible governance and a careful approach to cannabis legalization.
In the coming weeks, the council will finalize its decision, shaping the county’s approach to the cannabis industry and ensuring a safe and responsible framework.
Gerald G Newell says
What BS. The County Council just wants to leave their finger prints on the Bill.
Hal De Bona says
Gerald,
Actually the BS is the lack of enforcement while driving high! And please don’t tell me that one’s motor skills (no pun intended) and reaction times are as sharp when one is driving sober. Add a little alcohol with weed and you potentially have a vehicular homicide. I have no idea as to your substance consumption, nor you mine, however I can tell you I’ve been around the block a few times. The cannabis industry has been lobbying for decades to get where they are today, and what’s not to say harder drugs are next up on a potentially slippery slope?
Michael Flaherty says
Going slow is wise. Recent research reports long-term negative effects of regular use.We need a more recent science based education of such and other societal effects (e.g. working high, driving under influence,employee screens/productivity, personality changes) and why the Federal government won’t support open use. Before you put the possibility of new tax revenues and free choice over unintended or newly found consequences to one and all let’s educate . Takes guts …and time.
Alan Boisvert says
More of the same ol’ crap from the Eastern Shore. Talbot has had almost one year to prepare. What BS.