The Maryland General Assembly passed a bill Monday night prohibiting law enforcement officers from using the smell of cannabis as the only reason for stopping a vehicle.
This bill was strongly supported by various racial justice organizations across the state for its ability to reduce racially profiled traffic stops, which typically involve cannabis.
According to the General Assembly’s Racial Equity Impact Note, “Black or African American drivers consistently constitute at least 60% of all vehicle traffic stops in the State despite comprising only 29% of the State’s population,” adding that this bill will significantly reduce the amount of traffic stops Black Marylanders face.
Additionally, it would heavily reduce the fines for smoking marijuana in public from $250 to $50 on first offense. For subsequent offenses, it is now $150 instead of $500.
The bill passed 101-36 and is now on its way to Governor Wes Moore. If approved, it will go into effect on July 1, the same day it will become legal for cannabis to be sold in Maryland.
WOW!! With minutes before Sine Die, HB1071 is on its way to Gov. Moore! Huge thanks to bill sponsors @CharCrutchfield @jillpcarter @SenBillFerg @Willcsmithjr @SpeakerAJones @LukeClippinger, all who advocated so diligently for this critical legislation, + all who voted in favor!
— MD Coalition for Justice & Police Accountability (@MDPoliceReform) April 11, 2023
