# Criminal Law (GCR)

## Title 5. Controlled Dangerous Substances, Prescriptions, and Other Substances

### Subtitle 1. Definitions; General Provisions

#### Section 5-102

(a) The General Assembly finds that:

  (1) many of the substances listed in this title have a useful and legitimate medical purpose and are necessary to maintain the health and general welfare of the people of the State; but

  (2) the illegal manufacture, distribution, possession, and administration of controlled dangerous substances have a substantial and detrimental effect on the health and general welfare of the people of the State.

(b)

  (1) The purpose of this title is to establish a uniform law to control the manufacture, distribution, possession, and administration of controlled dangerous substances and related paraphernalia to:

    (i) ensure their availability for legitimate medical and scientific purposes; but

    (ii) prevent their abuse, which results in a serious health problem to the individual and represents a serious danger to the welfare of the people of the State.

  (2) This title shall be liberally construed to accomplish this purpose.

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Md. Code Ann., Crim. Law (as displayed at mgaleg.maryland.gov, October 16, 2026)