Delaware Legalizes Recreational Marijuana without Governor's Signature

Recreational officially becomes legal in Delaware on April 22, as Governor John Carney announced he will not veto two marijuana-related bills despite his personal opposition. Adults over 21 years of age will be allowed to possess, use, or transport up to an ounce of marijuana in private without penalty.

Previously, North East states and West Coast states were found mostly supportive of recreational marijuana. Delaware just fills itself in the blank. As of April, 23 states (including D.C.) have legalized recreational marijuana. As seen in the maps below. 

In a written statement on Friday, Carney stated that he would neither veto nor sign the bills legalizing possession and use, as well as establishing a regulated retail market for marijuana. The governor's deadline for signing or vetoing the bills was Saturday at midnight for the legalization bill and Wednesday night for the regulatory bill.

Under the new laws, individuals can have up to an ounce of marijuana in their vehicle without facing legal consequences, similar to having an unopened six-pack of beer. However, retail licenses for marijuana sales will not be issued until at least August 2024, allowing time for regulations to be adopted and applicants to be reviewed. A 15% tax will be levied on retail marijuana sales.

Although Carney has been a staunch opponent of recreational marijuana legalization, he decided to allow the bills to pass without his signature, stating that the debate has gone on for too long and it is time to move on. He emphasized that he still supports medical marijuana and Delaware's decriminalization law.

Reference:

No veto: Recreational marijuana will become legal in Delaware Sunday without Gov. Carney’s signature

Also read:

Oklahoma Lawmaker Calls for More Regulation and Enforcement of Marijuana

Updates on marijuana legalization by state in the United States

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