Editor’s observe: This text initially appeared in The Outlaw Report, and has been republished with permission.
The Maryland Hashish Administration (MCA) announced final week that the lottery drawings for social fairness hashish licenses shall be held on Thursday, Mar. 14, 2024. That is the primary alternative for brand new companies to get adult-use licenses since legalization final summer season.
The lottery comes after a two and half month delay. It was speculated to be held firstly of the 12 months. This primary wave of the lottery goals to create alternatives for these disproportionately impacted by the warfare on medication to take part within the state’s increasing hashish business.
As much as 179 candidates shall be chosen from a pool of over 1,500 who meet the social fairness necessities. These functions signify numerous license varieties, together with commonplace and micro dispensaries, growers and processors.
“We all know companies are excited to hitch this rising business and need all of the certified social fairness candidates good luck within the drawings,” mentioned Maryland Hashish Administration Director Will Tilburg.
The lottery continues regardless of a lawsuit challenging social fairness and one other claiming technical difficulties blocked entry. The lottery shall be held reside on MCA’s website. Moreover, an unbiased agency will oversee the method.
This system prioritizes minority- and women-owned companies. Notably, 84% of the qualifying functions recognized as such. “This can be a vital step in direction of making a extra inclusive hashish business in Maryland,” Tilburg added.
Following the lottery, chosen candidates will bear a verification course of to make sure they meet social fairness possession necessities. Winners shall be notified about this subsequent step.
For extra data on the social fairness program and the lottery, go to the Maryland Hashish Administration web site at: https://mmcc.maryland.gov/Pages/home.aspx.
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