Md. Paying Close Attention To D.C. Pot Legalization
WASHINGTON (WJZ) -- DC is just hours away from legalizing marijuana but Maryland is still at the center of a heated debate over the drug.
Tracey Leong explains that this now means for people here.
Lawmakers here in Maryland have proposed a similar bill to DC. With our neighbors now moving forward, some are wondering if Maryland is next.
When the clock strikes midnight Thursday, people in DC will be able to smoke and grow marijuana.
"I've said all along that we will uphold the will of the voters," said DC Mayor Muriel Bowser.
Passing with overwhelming support, it will be legal for people 21 and older to possess two ounces or less of marijuana, grow a few mature plants and share up to one ounce with another person. The measure is gaining mixed reaction from people here in Maryland.
"I agree with it. I think it's fine. There are a lot of people that need it for other reasons besides recreational," said Barbara Healy.
"Well, my concern is it will hover over into Baltimore," said Lucette Gamble. "And there's enough issues with a lot of drugs."
While it will be legal to light up in the nation's capital, it will only be allowed in the privacy of your own home, so restaurants, the streets and federal buildings are all off limits.
Maryland is considering legislation that would make it legal for adults to possess a small amount and grow several plants.
"If we produce it, we grow it, then we will have control over the market that we don't have now," said Delegate Curt Anderson.
With DC now leading the charge on the East Coast, Maryland residents think it's only a matter of time before we jump on board.
"Eventually, they going to lighten up on the stuff and figure they losing too much money chasing people down, writing citations," said Devon Little.
"Been known to help people who are suffering cancer and pain. I don't see anything wrong with it," said Healy.
But not all Marylanders can agree.
"Things are not happening that are positive for the young people. Marijuana is not positive. It's negative," Gamble said.
Now the city says their policy focuses on home growing and home use. You cannot buy or sell pot in DC so they will not be able to tax and regulate the drug like other states who have legalized it for recreational use.
The recreational use of marijuana is now legal in three states, including Washington, Colorado and Alaska. Oregon will become the fourth in July.