City Council Hearing: Committee on Legislative Investigations; September 10, 2026

The City Council Hearing of the Committee on Legislative Investigations for CharmTV Citizens' Hub on September 10, 2026, focused on Council Bill 26-0193 addressing illegal distribution and manufacturing of cannabis and controlled substances through smoke shops in Baltimore. The discussion highlighted the proliferation of unlicensed smoke shops disproportionately affecting low-income neighborhoods, selling untested and potentially dangerous cannabis products. The bill proposes giving police the authority to padlock businesses cited twice for illegal sales and refers such cases to the Maryland Office of Administrative Hearings (OAH) for adjudication. Testimonies from licensed dispensary owners, community members, educators, and law enforcement emphasized the need for stronger enforcement, penalties, and community investment to protect youth and support the legal cannabis industry. The committee approved an 11-page amendment clarifying referral processes and targeting businesses involved in illegal drug distribution. The amended bill passed favorably with a 5-0 vote and will proceed to the second reader at the next council meeting. The Department of Finance indicated the bill could be implemented with existing resources, and the OAH confirmed capacity to handle the anticipated caseload.