Delaware has become the 22nd state to legalize adult-use cannabis following the passage of two House Bills on Sunday.
In an April 21 statement, Governor John Carney (D) said he would allow House Bills 1 and 2 to become law without his signature.
Governor Carney does not think cannabis legalization is a step forward but supports medicinal use and decriminalization.
The governor says he does not believe people should go to jail for cannabis possession or personal use.
“I want to be clear that my views on this issue have not changed,” says Governor Carney. “And I understand there are those who share my views who will be disappointed in my decision not to veto this legislation. I came to this decision because I believe we’ve spent far too much time focused on this issue, when Delawareans face more serious and pressing concerns every day. It’s time to move on.”
A New Era in Delaware
HB 1 removes state-level civil and criminal penalties for simple cannabis possession, and HB 2 establishes the framework for a highly-regulated cannabis industry.
HB 1 went into effect on Sunday, officially legalizing adult-use cannabis in Delaware, and HB 2 will take effect on Thursday.
But despite the two Bills’ passage, Governor Carney has reservations about cannabis’ future in Delaware.
Governor Carney says he is still worried about Delaware’s approaching cannabis industry and its effect on children in the state.
He also raised concern regarding roadway safety and the impact on the state’s poorest neighborhoods.
Governor Carney says his concerns prevented him from signing the Bills.
“I recognize that many legislators disagree—and I respect the legislative process,” says Governor Carney. “I also do not believe prolonging debate on this issue best serves Delawareans. Delaware families want great schools for their kids. They want good jobs and affordable, safe communities free of crime. And they expect—rightly so—that we’ll spend taxpayer dollars in a way that’s both responsible and sustainable. That’s where we should focus out time and energy in the weeks and months ahead.”
As both Bills go into effect, Governor Carney says the state will closely evaluate dispensary placement to minimize their impact.
Preventing underage cannabis access will also be a top priority.
Additionally, Governor Carney says they will do everything they can to help prevent people from driving after using cannabis.
“My goal will be to ensure that Delaware has a robust regulatory system that protects the interests of the most vulnerable Delawareans to avoid the many challenges we’ve seen in other states,” says Governor Carney. “And to get back to focusing on issues that are most important for Delaware families.”