Maryland set to decriminalize marijuana

Maryland Gov. Martin O'Malley will sign legislation decriminalizing marijuana in his state, the governor's office announced Monday.

The legislation will make Maryland the 17th state to decriminalize marijuana.

O'Malley, often touted as a potential contender for the Democratic presidential nomination in 2016, explained his stance in a statement.

"As a young prosecutor, I once thought that decriminalizing the possession of marijuana might undermine the Public Will necessary to combat drug violence and improve public safety," he said. "I now think that decriminalizing possession of marijuana is an acknowledgement of the low priority that our courts, our prosecutors, our police, and the vast majority of citizens already attach to this transgression of public order and public health."

Explanatory journalism is a public good

At Vox, we believe that everyone deserves access to information that helps them understand and shape the world they live in. That's why we keep our work free. Support our mission and help keep Vox free for all by making a financial contribution to Vox today.

One-Time Monthly Annual

$95/year

$120/year

$250/year

$350/year

Other

$

Yes, I'll give $120/year

Yes, I'll give $120/year

We accept credit card, Apple Pay, and Google Pay. You can also contribute via