Cannabis Test for Drivers Under the Influence

As Maryland speeds toward full legalization of recreational cannabis this summer, one of the many outstanding concerns for supporters and opponents alike is what will happen for drivers who consume it and then get behind the wheel.

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs — including cannabis — will still be illegal under any bill Maryland lawmakers are considering this year.

But unlike alcohol, there is no established test for determining the exact levels of cannabis use, and such technology may be years from being a reality.

While the larger recreational cannabis industry-creating bill (House Bill 556/Senate Bill 516) is taking up most of lawmakers’ time on the issue right now, one proposed pilot program would start allowing police to test drivers who they believe are impaired specifically by cannabis.