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Washington County residents are being asked to share their ideas on how funds generated from the legalization of recreational cannabis in Maryland should be reinvested in their communities. The Washington County Office of Grant Management is seeking public input on the allocation of money from the Community Reinvestment and Repair Fund (CRRF), a program established to address the historical impacts of cannabis prohibition.
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The CRRF is funded by a portion of the state’s cannabis tax revenue, with the goal of supporting communities that were disproportionately affected by prior cannabis laws. In Washington County, these funds are designated for use within the 21740 ZIP code, which encompasses parts of Hagerstown and its surrounding areas. The initiatives supported by these funds are intended to benefit low-income communities and areas identified by the Maryland Office of Social Equity as having been disproportionately impacted.
Washington County has received CRRF funds through cannabis sales tax and one-time business conversion fees. These funds are held in a separate account to ensure their exclusive use for eligible programs and services. State legislation mandates that Washington County develop a funding plan in collaboration with community stakeholders. To fulfill this requirement and ensure that investments align with local needs, public feedback is being solicited through a survey. The input gathered will help determine funding priorities for the community.
Potential uses for CRRF funding are broad and can include support for mental health and substance use services, educational programs and after-school activities, initiatives aimed at small business and economic development, enhancements to parks and recreation facilities, re-entry programs for individuals transitioning back into society, and housing assistance. While administrative costs associated with program implementation are permissible, funds cannot be allocated to law enforcement activities. Residents and community organizations are strongly encouraged to participate in the survey to influence how these reinvestment funds are utilized locally.
Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from Washington County Office of Grant Management
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