From the Executive Director's Desk:

Nearly three years ago, the Office of Social Equity began without a direct precedent. There was no dedicated staff, no established infrastructure, and no existing model for a government office designed to ensure that those most impacted by cannabis prohibition could participate in and help shape the legal market.

We built from that starting point with intention, establishing the structure, partnerships, and programs needed to move this work forward. What began as a policy directive is now being tested through implementation.

This moment requires a clear understanding of both progress and responsibility. Cannabis reform continues to carry implications for economic opportunity, public health, and long-term community investment. Advancing this work requires sustained focus and coordination across systems.

This month, the Office of Social Equity is focused on both science and lived experience. Maryland’s social equity licensees reflect what it takes to enter and operate in a highly regulated and capital-intensive market. Their presence signals a shift in access to ownership and participation.

The science is equally important. Understanding the endocannabinoid system grounds this work in fact and supports a more informed and balanced public conversation. Expanding access to this knowledge contributes to reducing stigma and strengthening public understanding.

Maryland’s approach continues to evolve through execution. The state was the first to open a cannabis licensing round exclusively for social equity applicants across all license types. More than 190 licenses have been issued. Nineteen businesses are open today, with additional openings expected throughout the year. The Community Reinvestment and Repair Fund is now reaching all 24 jurisdictions, supporting investments aligned with the intent of the law.

Over the past few weeks, we have also begun visiting newly opened businesses across the state. These visits are offering a clearer view of how policy is translating into practice, including where alignment is strong and where additional support will be required over time.

We appreciate the continued engagement from licensees, communities, and partners across the state. This work requires ongoing focus, coordination, and accountability as it continues to take shape.

Learn. Grow. Build. Heal.

AUDREY JOHNSON  |  EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, OFFICE OF SOCIAL EQUITY

Showcasing Open Social Equity Businesses 

Green Genie is a micro-grow located in Elkton, Maryland that opened early last month. Founded by three Cecil County residents, their goal is to share their passion for cannabis with their local county. 

Green Genie’s Journey:

“Between having no access to traditional funding, and counties that don't want to follow zoning laws, we spent many months in what seemed like a hopeless battle to become operational. We are however grateful for both the Township of Elkton, and the Office of Social Equity, for all the assistance they both provided.” -Collin Mcilvried

What Social Equity Means to Green Genie: 

“Equity in the cannabis industry is all about repairing harm from prohibition. It means creating real opportunities for those most impacted by past cannabis laws to participate and succeed in the legal market. It also involves reinvesting equity in communities that were disproportionately affected, ensuring they benefit from the industry’s growth rather than being left behind, again.”      -Collin Mcilvried

What Makes Green Genie Unique: 

“Green Genie was founded by three Cecil County residents with a passion for cannabis and community. We're excited to share our passion with our local community, and will be planning many events at our local dispensaries.”  -Collin Mcilvried

The End of Exclusion 

The U.S. Army is dismantling barriers by removing waiver requirements for recruits with past possession convictions. This isn't just about recruitment; it’s a federal admission that yesterday’s 'crime' cannot be tomorrow’s disqualifier. Learn more

Compassion in Policy

Delaware moves toward ensuring that dignity in end-of-life care includes the right to plant-based medicine, even within hospital walls. Learn more

NuProject x Prosper Ascend - ROOTS

Nu Project In partnership with Ascend CO-LAB launches ROOTS, Readying Opportunities for Operational Trade & Sustainability, to support historically excluded cannabis businesses who are ready for their next stage of growth. Learn more

Evolution in D.C.’s Cannabis Industry

Washington, D.C., Mayor Muriel Bowser proposes a move toward a future where local breweries and medical cannabis manufacturers partner to create safe, THC beverages for patients. Learn more

🌍The Global Movement

While US states continue to advance towards legalization, nations globally are undertaking significant efforts to redefine the place of cannabis in contemporary society.

• Global Reclamation: India has issued its first public cannabis research grant in half a century. As a region with thousands of years of cannabis heritage, this move signals a powerful return to scientific leadership on the world stage. Learn more 

• Cannabis Europa London: Dialogue is the precursor to progress. Cannabis Europa brings together the architects of the industry: regulators, investors, and pioneers to move beyond speculation and into technical infrastructure. Learn more 

Through the Oculus with Heather & Tyme: 2026 Equity Panel | Streaming April 20, 2026

This conversation brings together national leaders: Audrey Johnson        (Office of Social Equity), Brandon Barksdale (Brand Houz), Jeanette Ward (NuProject), Simone Washington (New York Office of Cannabis Management), Shekia Scott (City of Boston), Eugene Hillsman (California Cannabis Control), Fame Neal (Exhale Social Pro), Taylor Green (Maryland Coalition for Cannabis Equity) to discuss equity, access, and the evolving cannabis landscape. Listen on Spotify or View on YouTube

Maryland Marketplace | 3-8 PM | April 29, 2026

​Be among Maryland’s top dispensary owners, equity licensees, and service providers, making introductions more powerful and connections more meaningful.​This event provides entrepreneurs looking to launch their business in a healthy ecosystem. To register, you must be a team member of a licensed operation. Register here 

CBCF Congressional Fellowship Program Application Deadline Soon!

The Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF) Fellowship Program for 2026–2027 is accepting applications until Friday, May 1, 2026. This program is designed to develop the next generation of public service leaders by providing early-career policy professionals with the essential skills to contribute to public policy in various fields, including Cannabis, Foreign Policy, and Health Policy. Apply now! 

Cannademix x Cannabis Unity Coalition | Washington, D.C. | May 12-15 2026 

Join Cannademix and the Cannabis Unity Coalition in Washington, DC, from May 12–14th for a powerful national call to action to decriminalize cannabis and end the War on Drugs. This multi-day mobilization brings together advocates and policymakers for federal reform, culminating in the 5th Annual Unity Day on May 14th to champion equity and the industry's future. Join the movement.  

🎬Recap: OSE in Action

We’re on the ground, advocating for an equitable industry. Here’s what we’ve been up to!

• Evidence of the Dream: From the precision of Maryland Herb Co.'s cultivation to the community-centered wellness at Koan Dispensary, this is what equity in action looks like. Not a concept. A reality taking shape across Maryland.

Check out our full Month in Review on Instagram @marylandosegov

• The Biological Blueprint: In 1988, Allyn Howlett discovered the CB1 receptor, unveiling a physiological architecture that has always existed within us. This was the moment science began to catch up to human intuition. 

• Cellular Restoration: Beyond THC, the rising potential of CBG (the 'Mother Cannabinoid') represents the next frontier in non-intoxicating, precision wellness.

• Nature’s Vacuum: As a hyperaccumulator, cannabis effectively draws toxins like lead and mercury from the soil. While good for cleaning polluted land, this makes the plant a powerhouse for phytoremediation, the process of using living plants to detoxify polluted soil effectively.

OSE’s exclusive programming helps licensees navigate, build capacity, 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.

Recap: Technical Assistance Listening Sessions

Last month, OSE hosted a series of Technical Assistance Listening Sessions with conditional and operational social equity licensees. We took the time to listen closely. The feedback was clear and consistent: capital access, compliance navigation, and operational readiness are the primary barriers. That clarity is directly shaping our next phase of work. 

The Substance Access Beneficiary Engagement System 

Starting April 1st, a new CMS incentive allows model participants to reimburse Medicare patients up to $500 annually for hemp products as part of physician-supervised care. This is the first inclusion of a cannabinoid product in a federal incentive model, with larger cannabis reimbursement expansions planned for 2027. Learn more

Community Reinvestment and Repair Fund Updates

Kent County commissioners approved additional steps to move forward with spending from the Community Reinvestment and Repair Fund, directing cannabis tax revenue toward programs that support low-income communities impacted by past enforcement. The program awarded 10 large grants and five smaller grants, all approved by commissioners. Learn more

Baltimore County officials moved to direct CRRF funds toward communities disproportionately impacted by past cannabis enforcement, focusing on programs that support health, education, and economic opportunity. Learn more

Baltimore City's $35 million Community Reinvestment and Repair Fund is stalled due to a dispute over the Community Reinvestment and Reparations Commission's independence, with City Hall and the Commission planning a formal distribution plan and public hearing. Learn more

Washington County officials asked residents to help shape how CRRF funds are spent by launching a public survey gathering feedback on local priorities. Learn more

⚖️Capitol Sesh: Annapolis Policy Updates 

Capitol Sesh tracks key bills moving through the Maryland General Assembly that could impact community funding, programs, and resources statewide. Below is a list of cannabis-related bills passed by both chambers of the Maryland General Assembly.

SB439 | Employment Discrimination – Fire and Rescue Public Safety Employees – Use of Medical Cannabis

Status: Passed Both Chambers – Pending Governor's Signature

Why This Matters: Addresses a key tension between workplace safety and lawful medical cannabis use. Establishing clear standards for fire and rescue personnel helps protect public safety while ensuring that certified medical patients are not unfairly penalized for legal treatment. A balanced approach advances equity in employment, reduces stigma, and aligns workplace policies with Maryland’s broader commitment to a fair and inclusive cannabis framework.

SB0594 | Cannabis – Advertising – Alterations 

Status: Passed Both Chambers – Pending Governor's Signature

Why This Matters: Clear and fair advertising rules help equity licensees market their businesses competitively. Overly restrictive or unevenly applied advertising regulations can disadvantage smaller, community-based operators who rely on accessible marketing to build their customer base. Lowering social equity ownership requirement from 65% to 55% expands potential access to investment.

SB336 | Task Force on Responsible Use of Natural Psychedelic Substances – Extension and Membership 

Status: Passed Both Chambers – Pending Governor's Signature

Why This Matters: Continuing the work of this task force supports evidence-based policymaking around emerging therapeutic substances. A thoughtful, research-driven approach helps ensure that any future regulatory framework prioritizes public health, safety, and equitable access, while creating opportunities for Maryland to lead in responsible innovation.

HB0622 | Cannabis – Licensees  – Micro Dispensary Employees and Cannabis Agent Training Programs 

Status: Passed Both Chambers – Pending Governor's Signature

Why This Matters: Expanding training pathways and clarifying workforce requirements strengthen the regulated cannabis market and support job creation. For micro dispensaries in particular, flexible and accessible training programs help reduce barriers to entry, promote compliance, and ensure that small and equity-focused businesses can build skilled teams and operate successfully. By extending the delivery access for current operators, the current medical cannabis delivery ecosystem can be preserved without disruption. 

SB0054 | State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners – Grounds for Disciplinary Action – Restrictions Status: Passed Both Chambers – Pending Governor's Signature 

Why This Matters: This bill allows veterinarians to discuss cannabis-derived treatments without fear of discipline, supporting informed guidance, consumer safety, and the responsible integration of cannabis into animal care.

The Office of Social Equity, established under the Cannabis Reform Act of 2023, promotes economic opportunity and equity within Maryland's adult-use cannabis market. 

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