Delaware Becomes 22nd U.S. State to Legalize Recreational Cannabis

Delaware has officially joined the ranks of U.S. states that have legalized recreational cannabis, becoming the 22nd state to do so. Governor John Carney, a Democrat, allowed two significant bills to pass into law without his signature, despite his ongoing concerns about the implications of lifting cannabis prohibition. This development marks a significant shift in the state's drug policy, reflecting a broader national trend towards the acceptance and regulation of cannabis use

The legalization movement in Delaware has been a long time coming, with advocates tirelessly campaigning for years. Laura Sharer, Executive Director of the Delaware chapter of the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws (NORML), highlighted the collective effort in a press release. She credited the success to the relentless work of volunteers, supportive legislators, and the backing of a substantial portion of the Delaware community, emphasizing the need for a sensible cannabis policy reform

Delaware's journey towards legalization has been gradual. Medical cannabis was legalized in 2011, and in 2015, the state decriminalized the possession of small amounts for personal use, reducing it to a civil offense with a $100 fine. Despite this progress, Governor Carney vetoed a legalization bill last year, indicating his reluctance to prioritize cannabis reform over other pressing state issues. However, the recent legislative success indicates a shift in the political landscape

The newly passed H.B. 1 and H.B. 2 bills outline the framework for cannabis regulation. H.B. 1 removes penalties for adults over 21 possessing up to an ounce of cannabis, while H.B. 2 establishes a 'cannabis commissioner' to oversee licensing and regulation of recreational cannabis production and distribution. Although home cultivation remains illegal, adults can share cannabis without financial exchange. Public consumption and driving under the influence remain prohibited, with penalties in place

Retail cannabis sales in Delaware are expected to commence in over a year, as the cannabis commissioner will start accepting license applications 13 months after the law's enactment. A 15% retail tax will be imposed, and local municipalities can choose to ban cannabis businesses. This delay means consumers will continue relying on the black market temporarily, though they won't face legal penalties for possession within the allowed limits

Surrounding states like New Jersey and Maryland have also legalized cannabis, potentially influencing Delaware's decision. As the state gears up for legal sales, the community anticipates both economic benefits and challenges associated with regulation. The legalization is seen as a progressive step, aligning Delaware with a growing number of states that recognize the potential for cannabis to contribute to state revenues and social justice reforms