Office of Social Equity to gather public input on Community Reinvestment Fund uses

House Bill 1364, introduced in Maryland on April 5, 2025, aims to enhance transparency and community engagement regarding the allocation of funds from the Community Reinvestment and Repair Fund. This legislation is part of a broader effort to regulate and tax cannabis in the state, ensuring that the industry operates safely and benefits the public interest.

The bill mandates that the Office of Social Equity solicit public input every two years on how the funds are utilized. Starting in 2024, the Office will publish a review of this input by December 15 of each odd-numbered year, detailing how the funds were spent in the preceding two years. This initiative is designed to foster accountability and ensure that community voices are heard in the decision-making process.

Key provisions of House Bill 1364 include the establishment of a Community Reinvestment and Repair Advisory Board, which will oversee the Fund and its expenditures. The bill also emphasizes the need for the Office of Social Equity to request information from local governments and entities receiving distributions from the Fund to assist in compiling the required reports.

The introduction of this bill has sparked discussions among lawmakers and community advocates. Supporters argue that it will promote equity and transparency in the cannabis industry, particularly in light of historical disparities in enforcement and access. Critics, however, express concerns about the potential bureaucratic burden on local entities and the effectiveness of public input in influencing fund allocation.

The implications of House Bill 1364 extend beyond administrative processes; it reflects Maryland's commitment to addressing social equity issues related to cannabis regulation. By prioritizing community engagement, the bill aims to rectify past injustices associated with cannabis prohibition, particularly those affecting marginalized communities.

As the legislative process unfolds, stakeholders will be closely monitoring the bill's progress and its potential impact on both the cannabis industry and community reinvestment efforts in Maryland.