LINTHICUM HEIGHTS, Md. – The Maryland Office of Social Equity (OSE) has mounted a groundbreaking initiative to gather essential community input that will shape the future allocation of millions in cannabis tax revenue. Through a comprehensive statewide survey, open through November 25, 2024, OSE aims to raise community awareness, understanding, and priorities for the Community Reinvestment and Repair Fund (CRRF) implementation.
The survey represents a critical first step in ensuring the CRRF effectively serves Maryland communities most impacted by cannabis prohibition. It builds upon momentum from OSE’s ongoing town hall series, where hundreds of residents across Baltimore City, Montgomery County, and Eastern Maryland have already engaged in crucial discussions about community reinvestment.
“Understanding our communities’ baseline knowledge and needs is essential for effective fund implementation,” said Audrey Johnson, Executive Director of the Office of Social Equity. “The Community Reinvestment and Repair Fund represents Maryland’s commitment to not just legalize cannabis, but to repair decades of disproportionate impact on our communities. This survey helps ensure we’re not just allocating resources, but truly meeting communities where they are and addressing their most pressing needs.”
Senator Antonio Hayes, a key architect of the Cannabis Reform Act, emphasized the importance of this assessment: “Before we begin distributing these historic funds, we must understand how to best reach and serve our communities. This survey is about listening first, then acting with purpose and precision to repair decades of disproportionate impact.”
Key Survey Topics
- Community awareness of the Office of Social Equity’s mission and services
- Understanding of the Community Reinvestment and Repair Fund (CRRF)
- Interest in applying for funding opportunities
- Demographics and community representation
- Community priorities for social equity initiatives
The survey complements OSE’s comprehensive community engagement strategy, which includes:
- Eight regional town halls across Maryland through November 2024
- Partnerships with community leaders, policy-makers, and advocates
- Targeted outreach in disproportionately impacted areas
Take the survey
Community leaders, nonprofits, cannabis business owners, social equity licensees, and residents of disproportionately impacted areas are encouraged to participate in the historic opportunity to shape Maryland’s cannabis equity landscape.
Deadline to Complete Survey: November 25, 2024.
About the Office of Social Equity
The Office of Social Equity ensures diverse participation in Maryland’s cannabis market, provides resources and support for social equity applicants and licensees, and addresses the impact of past cannabis prohibition on communities through strategic programming, technical assistance, and community engagement.
