February 26, 2010

The Honorable Peter A. Hammen

Health and Government Operations Committee

Room 241, House Office Building

Annapolis, MD 21401-1912

Re: HB1388 – Maryland Medical Marijuana Act – Oppose as written

Dear Delegate Hammen:

HB1388 would allow the medical use of marijuana under specified circumstances and repeal specified criminal provisions that allow the imposition of a specified fine for use or possession of marijuana or use or possession of drug paraphernalia related to marijuana under specified circumstances. It would further require the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene to adopt specified regulations on or before a specified date; and authorize the Department to vary specified fees in a specified manner.

The Legislative Committee of the Carroll County Chamber of Commerce opposes this bill as written. This bill would prohibit job action based on testing positive for marijuana metabolites.  It is unclear how this would affect drug-free workplace policies, or how an employer would be allowed to decide if any employee is under the influence.

We therefore ask that your committee give this bill an unfavorable report. 

Sincerely,

Richard Haddad

President

CC: Senator Larry E. Haines