Maryland is among 18 U.S. states where using marijuana for medical reasons is allowed, but not for recreational use. Still, some people in Maryland use marijuana for fun, especially in a specific city with the highest weed consumption in the state.
Can you guess which city it is? Here’s a clue: it’s the largest and most populated city in Maryland, known for its progressive and diverse approach to cannabis culture. Keep reading to discover which Maryland city is leading in weed consumption and the reasons behind it.
Maryland’s This City Has the Highest Rate of Marijuana Use in the State
A Verilife report shows that Baltimore, Maryland, has the highest marijuana consumption in the state. Residents there use about 38.3 metric tons of weed per year, which is around 84,400 pounds or 38.3 million grams. On average, a person in Baltimore smokes about 6.1 grams of weed per month or 0.2 grams per day.
In the list of top 25 U.S. cities with the highest marijuana consumption, Baltimore is ranked 16th. Cities like Orlando, New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, San Francisco, Houston, Phoenix, Philadelphia, Dallas, Denver, Boston, Seattle, Washington D.C., Las Vegas, and Portland are ahead of Baltimore in the rankings.
Within Maryland, Baltimore is also the top city for weed consumption, followed by Columbia, Germantown, Silver Spring, Waldorf, Glen Burnie, Ellicott City, Frederick, Dundalk, and Rockville.
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Why Baltimore Smokes More Weed
There are a few reasons why Baltimore has more people using weed compared to other places in Maryland:
1. Baltimore is the biggest city in the state, with over 600,000 people in the city and 2.8 million in the surrounding area. More people means more demand and supply for weed in the city.
2. Baltimore has a more open-minded stance on weed compared to other cities in Maryland. In 2014, they made a city law that made having up to 10 grams of weed less serious. Instead of being a criminal offense, it became more like a traffic ticket.
So, if someone is caught with a small amount of weed in Baltimore, they might get a $100 fine for the first time and $250 for the second time, instead of going to jail or having a criminal record.
3. Baltimore has a mix of cultures, including influences from African American, Irish, Italian, Jewish, Polish, and Hispanic communities. These groups may have different opinions about weed and might use it for various reasons like socializing, relaxing, dealing with stress, or even for healing purposes.
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To Conclude
In conclusion, Baltimore’s high cannabis use in Maryland is influenced by its large population, progressive attitude towards cannabis, and diverse cultural mix. People in the city use cannabis for various reasons, and the open-minded environment allows for exploration and acceptance.
However, it’s crucial to consider potential negative impacts on health, safety, and social equality due to the high consumption rates. As Maryland discusses broader legalization, lessons from Baltimore can guide effective regulation while recognizing the cultural and social aspects of cannabis use.
Understanding Baltimore’s cannabis scene goes beyond consumption numbers. It involves acknowledging diverse perspectives, historical contexts, and changing policies that shape how residents perceive and interact with cannabis.
Through open discussions and responsible research, Baltimore can contribute to a future where cannabis is approached with sensitivity, understanding, and a focus on both individual well-being and community safety.
