From the Executive Director’s Desk:

This October marks a defining chapter in Maryland’s equity journey. The Office of Social Equity has officially transitioned into the Department of Social and Economic Mobility (DoSEM)—a bold and intentional step that cements equity as a permanent part of how Maryland governs and grows.

While many states are still debating frameworks, Maryland is building systems designed to serve communities for generations. Over the past two years, we’ve proven what’s possible when structure supports purpose and intention drives impact. Our work has positioned Maryland as a model for states across the country, especially as national conversations around cannabis reform and economic equity continue to evolve.

September reminded us why this transition is so important.

• Our Service Year members returned from Black Cannabis Week in Philadelphia having built meaningful relationships with advocates, entrepreneurs, and policymakers nationwide. Those connections are turning isolated state efforts into a broader national equity network —one that learns, collaborates, and advocates together.
• We also hosted our first Community Reinvestment & Repair Fund Virtual Town Hall, where more than 100 Marylanders joined to help shape how millions of dollars in cannabis revenue will return to communities most impacted by prohibition. That conversation reflected what true community-led reinvestment looks like: policy informed by lived experience and driven by the people most affected. Watch the Replay
• Recently, our From Seed to Success Vendor Fair brought Maryland’s cannabis ecosystem together once again. Entrepreneurs, service providers, and community partners filled the room with energy, ideas, and collaboration. It was more than fair; it was a testament to how quickly Maryland’s social equity marketplace is growing and how equity becomes tangible when infrastructure meets opportunity.

As we enter this next chapter under DoSEM, I’m deeply proud of what we’ve built and even more inspired by what’s ahead. Building something from the ground up takes courage, conviction, and community. These two years have been a reminder that transformation happens when you lead boldly and build with purpose. Maryland didn’t just create an office—we set a standard for what permanent equity infrastructure looks like.

AUDREY JOHNSON   |  EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, OFFICE OF SOCIAL EQUITY

Governor Moore Announces Acting Secretary for DoSEM

Governor Wes Moore has appointed Walter L. Simmons as Acting Secretary of the Maryland Department of Social and Economic Mobility (DoSEM). Secretary Simmons will guide Maryland’s mission to expand opportunity, strengthen small business participation, and embed equity into Maryland’s economic systems. He assumes the post on October 20, 2025. Read the full announcement 

New Social Equity Dispensaries Now Open

In September, three social equity licensees achieved a major milestone by receiving operational licenses. Congratulations to Koan Cannabis (Hagerstown, MD), Elevated Dispo (Salisbury, MD), and Elevated Releaf (Eldersburg, MD) on this significant achievement. We look forward to seeing their continued growth and success in the industry.

Applications Open: Maryland Cannabis Public Health Advisory Council 

The Maryland Cannabis Public Health Advisory Council (CPHAC) is now accepting applications for new members. The Council provides guidance on youth prevention, public health campaigns, data collection, provider training, and more. Apply today through the Governor’s Appointments Office to help shape the future of Maryland’s cannabis and public health. Learn More.

Unlicensed business selling hemp THC stripped of legal protections

On September 9th, the Appellate Court of Maryland overturned a 2023 injunction protecting unlicensed hemp-derived THC distributors. Maryland's Alcohol, Tobacco, and Cannabis Commission will now prosecute unlicensed vendors, signaling a legislative review of these products previously used to bypass THC sales restrictions. More Information.

Maryland Cannabis Licensing Law Upheld

On September 2nd, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit upheld Maryland’s cannabis licensing rule favoring in-state university applicants with high financial-aid enrollment. The court ruled the policy doesn’t discriminate against out-of-state applicants and that the Dormant Commerce Clause doesn’t apply to cannabis due to federal illegality. California resident Justyna Jensen's case was rejected, as non-Maryland residents can still qualify by attending eligible universities. Jensen has requested a rehearing. More Information.

Montgomery County Cannabis Zoning Proposal Update 

On September 15th, the Montgomery County Council’s Planning, Housing, and Parks (PHP) Committee reviewed Zoning Text Amendment (ZTA) 25-07, which would prohibit marijuana dispensaries from operating within 100 feet of residential areas. Introduced by Councilmembers Gabe Albornoz and Sidney Katz. Some residents support the restrictions, citing discomfort with dispensaries near homes, while others argue that proximity improves access, especially for medical users. The PHP Committee postponed a scheduled vote and may revisit the measure at a later date. Learn More. 

Kent County Cannabis Reinvestment Forum Update

September 24th marks the launch of a new forum at Washington College's Innovation Plant, hosted by the Kent County Local Management Board. In May 2025, the Kent County Local Management Board was designated to oversee CRRF fund distribution and oversight. The board is currently gathering community input on how best to allocate the funds and will begin rolling out grants for CRRF-aligned projects in the coming months. More Information. 

Quarterly Cannabis Tax Report

Maryland's Q2 2025 cannabis tax revenue, totaling $18.4 million, was distributed to the Community Reinvestment and Repair Fund ($3 million), counties, public health, business assistance, and the state's general fund. View The Full Report. 

MCBA Equity Workshop Tour- East Coast Regional | November 7th & 8th 2025 

The Minority Cannabis Business Association (MCBA) is hosting its East Coast Regional Equity Workshop Tour in Jersey City, New Jersey, on Friday, November 7, and Saturday, November 8, 2025. This two-day event brings together leaders from across the region to share insights, address challenges, and collectively shape the future of equitable cannabis growth. Register Here.

Recap: CRRF Virtual Townhall | September 17th, 2025 

On September 17th, OSE held a virtual webinar discussing the results of the 2024 Community Reinvestment and Repair Fund Survey. OSE staff members discussed key results from the 2024 CRRF survey, noting that communities prioritize mental health, education, housing, and economic development remain central in funding allocations. OSE also discussed the implementation of Senate Bill 894, sponsored by Senator Mary Washington, which provides OSE with more oversight over the utilization of CRRF funds.

Alongside OSE, representatives from Harford County’s Administrator Office of Drug Control Policy, Anne Arundel County’s County Executive Office, and Arundel Community Development Services spoke about upcoming projects and plans to use the CRRF funds. 

Recap: Black Cannabis Week | September 22- 28, 2025 

OSE was a proud sponsor of this year's Black Cannabis Week in Philadelphia. This national event focused on equity, education, and empowerment within the cannabis industry.

The week kicked off on September 21 with the Daily Dose Tour, featuring a stop at Unity Hall in Baltimore. The event spotlighted local leaders building an inclusive cannabis industry. OSE was proudly represented by Executive Director Audrey Johnson and Digital Marketing Specialist Joshua Harris.

The Philadelphia portion of the conference featured activities, including a multi-panel policy breakfast, vendors, a career and justice fair, and wellness pop-ups. Our very own Communications and Public Affairs Manager, Sirita Wright, was 1 of 27 to receive the inaugural Imprint award–honoring those who have created pathways for others in the cannabis industry. 

Sirita Wright, Alana Hodge, Joshua Harris, and our service members, Emma Seto and Jacquees Thompson, represented OSE at the conference. 

Recap: From Seed to Success: A Cannabis Business Vendor Fair | October 10, 2025

This month, we hosted our second From Seed to Success: A Cannabis Business Vendor Fair. Building on the tremendous success of our inaugural spring event, this fair once again created a dynamic environment for licensees, vendors, and state agencies to connect and foster significant business growth. A key highlight of this event was the launch of our Social Equity Partnership Grant Program. Attendees from across Maryland had an invaluable opportunity to network, explore partnership prospects, and gain insights into available state resources. The fair also featured engaging expert panels on overcoming barriers in business, alongside a thought-provoking conversation about cannabis, commerce, and community. We were honored to have the mayor of Rockville, Monique Ashton, share inspiring words with our participants.

• Did you know that the cannabis harvest season coincides with autumn festivals like Halloween? It's often called "Hallo-weed" for a reason! Learn more.

• Despite warnings of “Marijuana candies” in Trick-or-Treat Baskets post-legalization in Colorado, there were zero verified cases of pot-laced candy given to children that Halloween. Read more. 

• Modern Halloween cannabis campaigns promote responsible use, creative costumes, and community, depicting users as ordinary adults, a shift from past fear-based tactics.

OSE’s exclusive programming helps licensees navigate, influence, and thrive in Maryland’s evolving cannabis industry. Licensees, check your email and the Equity Exchange Slack for registration links, updates, session details, and replays.

Social Equity Partnership Grant Program (SEPP) Launch 

The Social Equity Partnership Grant Program (SEPP) was publicly launched at this month's "From Seed to Success" Cannabis Business Vendor Fair. The launch presentation detailed the public guidance review, program timeline, and the general application process. For those who were unable to attend the in-person launch session, a virtual follow-up will be held on October 23 at 1:00 PM, where the key program details will be discussed. Register here. 

Trailblazers Series: Sakara Barnes | October 29, 1 PM EST

This month's Trailblazer, Sakara Barnes, represents the blueprint for strategic multi-state expansion. As Founder and CEO of Mother Exotic Flower, Barnes built one of Los Angeles's most comprehensive operations—holding cultivation, distribution, and delivery licenses—before expanding to Maryland's market.

 Barnes will share:

• How to navigate multiple regulatory environments
• Building infrastructure that scales across state lines
• Lessons from California’s mature market

CEO Accelerator Fall Intensive | October 2025

The CEO Accelerator Program enters its most intensive phase this October with three major touchpoints designed to accelerate licensee business readiness.

Coppin State Partnership Launch | October 9, 2025 

OSE and Coppin State University's Center for Strategic Entrepreneurship officially launch online video training, one-on-one coaching, and personalized mentoring. This webinar launch follows the NuProject Monthly Group Training—link sent exclusively to program participants.

3-Day Workshop | October 17-19, 2025 | Anne Arundel County 

Following June's successful launch, NuProject returns with practical tools and strategies for strengthening operations. This hands-on workshop is exclusively for enrolled CEO Accelerator participants. Not yet enrolled? Register here.

Monthly Group Training | Ongoing 

NuProject's monthly sessions continue providing licensees with peer learning and expert guidance. Check your Equity Exchange Slack for session details.

Stay tuned for our next Budding Business Spotlight, where we’ll feature an inspiring social equity business success story from our licensee community. 

The Office of Social Equity, an independent executive agency
established by the Cannabis Reform Act of 2023, serves to promote economic
opportunity and equity in Maryland’s adult-use cannabis market.

info.ose.maryland.gov |  ose.maryland.gov

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