Hogan’s veto of bill decriminalizing drug paraphernalia was about politics, not healthcare

Paraphernalia decriminalization — a bill repealing the prohibition of items associated with drug use — passed in both houses of the Maryland General Assembly. Knowing it wasn’t easy to win enough favorable votes, this triumph evoked pride in our legislative process. Thoroughly researched and well-presented, the persuasive facts carried the day. My spirits soared — the greater good had prevailed! Until that is, Gov. Larry Hogan, despite the support of our legislators and the Maryland State Medical Society, vetoed the bill.