ANNAPOLIS, MD — Governor Wes Moore today released the following statement regarding a new search for State of Maryland’s cannabis incubator project site:
“Maryland is proud to be home to the most equitable cannabis industry in the nation. As part of our ongoing effort to promote social equity in our state’s cannabis industry, we are committed to building a first-in-the-nation cannabis incubator that will support our social equity micro-licensees. Through resource support and programming, the new facility will empower historically disadvantaged individuals and businesses to participate in the state’s burgeoning cannabis industry, which realized more than $1 billion in total sales in its first year.
“Upon further review of this project—and the selection of the Maryland National Guard William J. Witte Armory in Catonsville as the preferred site for the cannabis incubator—I have concluded that the state should explore new options for its location. I have therefore directed the three agencies at the helm of this project—the Maryland Cannabis Administration, Maryland Department of General Services, and Maryland Economic Development Corporation—to conduct a new process and explore new locations for the cannabis incubator project.
“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. The Catonsville Armory will undergo the armory surplus and disposition process that will be managed by the Department of General Services.
“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.”
###