Maryland is seeking a new location for a proposed cannabis incubator after some pushback from local residents.
Governor Wes Moore said in a statement that Maryland is committed to building a "first-in-the-nation cannabis incubator that will support our social equity micro-licensees" and provide resource support and programming. He said the new facility will empower historically disadvantaged individuals and businesses to participate in the state’s cannabis industry, which totaled more than $1 billion in sales in its first year.
But first it will need to find a new site. The Maryland National Guard William J. Witte Armory in Catonsville was originally selected as the preferred site for the cannabis incubator. That decision was met with complaints from residents who pointed out that the site is directly across the street from an elementary school and a day care, according to the Baltimore Banner.
Now it's up to the Maryland Cannabis Administration, Maryland Department of General Services, and Maryland Economic Development Corporation to find a new location that won't raise as many eyebrows.
“As part of their site review, I have instructed the agencies to identify locations that are not within close proximity to residential communities and schools. The agencies will begin this new process immediately, conduct extensive community and stakeholder engagement, and work quickly to move the project forward," said Moore. “Together, we will continue to write a new chapter in the story of cannabis policy in America—one grounded in equity, partnership, and economic growth. Our commitment to transparency and fairness throughout the process will serve that mission and help ensure the best outcome for the work ahead.”
