Since 2017, Delaware has been cautiously working toward a future with legal adult-use cannabis and a regulated market. But a new marijuana bill introduced in the General Assembly Wednesday is aiming at correcting the wrongs of the past. Delaware decriminalized cannabis possession up to an ounce in 2015. Anyone convicted prior, however, kept their criminal record. On Wednesday, a bi-partisan group of lawmakers took a step to change that. If their legislation passes, Delaware could clear past minor marijuana convictions from records for more than 1,000 people.
While Delaware Debates Legalization, Lawmakers Make Good On Decriminalization
Decriminalization is no substitute for a regulated adult-use cannabis market. While still a significant reform, it often doesn’t address prior marijuana convictions and does little to reduce illicit sales.
Furthermore, even a $100 fine can pose a significant financial hardship for low-income residents who commit an infraction.
Recognizing the need to move forward toward full legalization, Delaware lawmakers appointed a task force to study the issue. Lawmakers appointed the task force after an adult-use bill cleared committee then stalled in the Assembly early last year.
Following a yearlong battle over legalizing and regulating cannabis, the Delaware Adult Use Cannabis Task Force recently released its final report. The embattled task force only narrowly approved the release of the report, with several prominent members opposed.
Cathy Rossi, vice president of public and government affairs for AAA Mid-Atlantic, described the process as “a painful and difficult one.”
“And on balance, I’m not sure the substance of this report produces an adequate set of pros and cons, good, bad and in-between for public consumption,” Rossi said.
The rocky release of the task force’s report means the adult-use bill in question could see another