As of October 1, 2014, possession of less than 10 grams of marijuana is no longer be a criminal offense in Maryland. Possession of paraphernalia, however, is still a criminal offense punishable by up to one year in jail and a $1,000 fine.

Under the new law, first-time offenders can receive a fine of up to $100. Second-time offenders can receive a fine of up to $250. A third or subsequent offense is punishable by fine of up to $500 and requires attendance in a drug education program and referral to a substance abuse evaluation.

For those under 21, the penalty for possession of less than 10 grams of marijuana could include suspension of their driver’s license and participation in a supervised work program. Additionally, they would be required to attend a drug education program and referred for a substance abuse assessment.

People who possess more than 10 grams of marijuana, or who possess it with intent to distribute, can still be charged criminally. However, county police officers won’t carry scales to weigh marijuana found on suspects, they have been trained that 10 grams looks like a “healthy handful.” Hmmm,,,

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