If a Maryland State Senator has his way, buyers of bongs in Maryland will soon have to pay a special tax. C. Anthony Muse (D-Prince Geoerge’s County) introduced two bills on Wednesday that would add a $20 tax for all tobacco accessories except rolling paper.
For those who don’t know a bong is a water pipe used to smoke tobacco or cannabis (marijuana). Senator Muse would have preferred to outlaw the accessories completely; he believes that they are “drug paraphernalia—not tobacco paraphernalia.” His measures would also require stores selling such items to check id’s and record purchasers names.
Senator Muse’s measures will face committee hearings in the Maryland legislature before coming up for any votes.