September 25, 2019 Brian Lopez, Chair The Natalie M. LaPrade Medical Cannabis Commission 849 International Drive, Suite 450 Linthicum, MD 21090 Dear Mr. Lopez: This letter is sent as an official request for a delay in assigning PreApprovals for Medical Cannabis Licenses for Growers and Processors in the State of Maryland. House Bill 2, signed into law after the 2018 Legislative Session, added 4 new licenses for Growers, and 10 new licenses for Processors in the Maryland Medical Cannabis industry. There have been significant issues and concerns raised about the process being used to determine winners and losers for these new licenses. These concerns reached a tipping point as a result of the letters sent to those identified as top tier applicants, and those who have been rejected by the Commission for either a Grower or Processor license. Consequently, the Legislative Black Caucus of Maryland Inc. is requesting that no Pre-Approvals be awarded at the Commission meeting on Thursday, September 26, 2019. We further request that the Medical Cannabis Commission complete the verification process for all applicants to ensure that all companies are truthful in their disclosures about minority ownership, and their financial status. Your immediate attention to this request is appreciated. Sincerely, Darryl Barnes Darryl Barnes, Chairman cc: Zenita Hurley, Chief Counsel for Civil Rights and Legislative Affairs Adrienne A. Jones, Speaker, Maryland House of Delegates Thomas V. Mike Miller Jr., President, Senate of Maryland Cheryl D. Glenn, Chair Emeritus, LBCM