Dorchester chamber highlights discussion on medical cannabis industry

CAMBRIDGE, Md. – Medical cannabis has become a multi-million dollar industry for Dorchester County over the past two years, and it’s only growing. Which is why the Chamber of Commerce made the subject its keynote discussion at its annual meeting.

Chamber CEO Bill Christopher tells 47ABC there is a huge lack of understanding regarding this industry. So speakers, like Darryl Hill with SunBurst Pharm, were brought in to talk about topics like the medical benefits of cannabis.

According to officials, aside from the medical benefits, the county has benefited economically from the new industry. An estimated $15 million has been pumped into the county through construction, jobs and more over the last two years.

“So you’re talking about massive economic impact. You’re talking about payroll taxes, you’re talking about job creation, and hopefully if the program goes well you’re talking about long-term job creation,” said Mackie Barch, President of Culta.

And other jobs are now available as a support for the medical cannabis industry.

“But then there’s also the ancillary jobs that are created. HVAC jobs, plumbing jobs, electrical jobs, cleaning jobs. There’s all of these different side businesses that have to support these businesses,” said Barch.

The topic of legalization of recreational marijuana is still a topic officials say needs to be worked out. Believing it is key to do research and study results in other states before moving forward, despite the potential for a large return on investment.

“Make sure if we’re going to make that move we do it thoughtfully, and understand what the impacts going to be on both on the business side and on the community side,” said President and CEO of the Dorchester Chamber of Commerce, Bill Christopher.

On top of the added jobs, we’re told those jobs grown in Dorchester typically come with a living wage, $15 an hour, plus health insurance coverage.

On hand tonight for the discussion was the Director of the Maryland Cannabis Commission, the CEO of Sunburst Pharm and President of Culta.