Strict Regulations Leave Cookies Baltimore Store In Peril: Marijuana Regulator Issues License Suspension

Global cannabis brand Cookies - founded by Bay-area rapper and entrepreneur Berner - celebrated the opening of its flagship Baltimore, Maryland-based store last month.

A month later, Cookies Baltimore, formally known as MIMD Operating 1 LLC, is being shut down by the state regulator, reported Green Market Report.

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What Happened

The Maryland Cannabis Administration (MCA) issued a summary suspension of the license for Cookies Baltimore due to a violation of state marijuana laws and regulations, as per a document obtained from the authority.

The company allegedly breached the Cannabis Reform Act and Code of Maryland Regulations.

On May 26, MCA conducted an unsolicited inspection that uncovered numerous breaches of regulations, prompting them to demand compliance-related documents. Cookies Baltimore didn’t address the regulator’s request before opening the store the following day.

Among violations, according to investigators who conducted a follow-up inspection on May 30, Cookies Baltimore disregarded the state regulations by promoting its services through social networks such as LinkedIn and Instagram that featured cartoons attractive to minors, celebrity likenesses, non-cannabis trademarks and individuals using cannabis.

The MCA said, “public health, safety, and welfare imperatively require emergency action in this case.” On June 2, the regulator issued an order suspending operations in the store.

What’s Next?

Cookies Baltimore can request a post-deprivation show-cause hearing within 30 days.

Cookies In Maryland

Earlier this year, TerrAscend Corp. TER TRSSF entered into a 5-year licensing agreement with Cookies, to cultivate and manufacture its products in Maryland. The agreement provides Maryland patients and future adult-use customers access to all of Cookies' current flavors.  

Photo: Courtesy of Evan Wise on Unsplash