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County Executive Steve Schuh today unveiled legislation disallowing the growing, processing, and dispensing of marijuana in Anne Arundel County.
“After a thorough review of the state law and hearing the concerns of public safety professionals, I believe allowing marijuana to be grown, processed and dispensed here will lead to increases in recreational use and cause significant public safety problems,” said Schuh.
“By enacting this legislation, Anne Arundel County policymakers and citizens will be able to monitor and assess the impacts of the Maryland marijuana law on the various counties and on the state as a whole. I do not want Anne Arundel County to be a guinea pig on this issue.”
The proposal comes after weeks of hearing input from various community, health, legal, public safety, and faith leaders around the County.
County Executive Schuh was joined at the press conference announcing the decision by County Attorney Nancy Duden, Police Chief Tim Altomare, and Economic Development Corporation President Robert Hannon.
During the morning press conference, county officials outlined their concerns:
- The Office of Law expressed serious concerns about the loosely written nature of the state’s marijuana statute and the opportunity it creates for widespread recreational use of marijuana.
- Anne Arundel County Economic Development Corporation expressed concerns about the implications for Arundel County’s largely federal workforce and the limited direct economic impact on the County itself.
- The Anne Arundel County Police Department and Sheriff’s Office expressed serious public safety concerns arising from potential diversion and re-selling of the drug.
The County Executive made clear that this proposal would not prevent individuals with valid prescriptions from obtaining marijuana to address their medical needs.
The bill will be introduced during the County Council session on September 21st.
