- Maryland Question 4 would legalize marijuana use for adults over the age of 21.
- Proponents say that the measure will improve the economy and benefit Maryland residents.
A "yes" on Maryland's Question 4 would legalize recreational marijuana use for adults.
Ballot measure details
Although medicinal marijuana use was legalized in Maryland in 2013, Question 4 would add the Marijuana Legalization Amendment to the Maryland state Constitution.
If passed, adults over the age of 21 would be able to have up to 1.5 ounces in their possession and grow up to two marijuana plants outside of the public eye. The bill would also require state lawmakers to pass laws for the "use, distribution, possession, regulation, and taxation" of marijuana in Maryland, according to the measure text and Ballotpedia.
The measure passed in the state's House and Senate, but voters must approve it before it becomes law, according to the Baltimore Sun.
Support and opposition
The campaign for the measure is spearheaded by Yes on 4. Supporters argue the measure will improve the economy, benefit Maryland residents, and allow law enforcement to focus on combatting violent crime.
"Legalizing cannabis would stimulate Maryland's economy and create tens of thousands of good-paying jobs, while allowing Maryland residents to benefit from vital investments in education, public health, and public safety funded by cannabis taxes," the chairman of the initiative and former Ravens player Eugene Monroe told The Washington Post.
According to Ballotpedia, there is not an organized movement opposing the measure.