DOVER – Two measures that would legalize and regulate recreational marijuana for adult users were delivered to Governor John Carney this week.
Collectively, Rep. Ed Osienski’s House Bills 1 and 2 comprise the Delaware Marijuana Control Act, with HB 1 legalizing possession of small amounts of marijuana for personal use, and HB 2 regulating the legal industry of growing and selling cannabis.
The delivery of the measures begins a legislative process by which bills become law. Under Delaware law, the governor has 10 days, not including Sundays, from receipt of a bill to take one of three actions: sign the bill into law, veto the bill, or take no action and let the bill become law without their signature.
HB 1 was sent to the governor on Tuesday, April 11, which means the 10th day would be Saturday, April 22. HB 2 was delivered on Friday, April 14, which means the 10th day would be Wednesday, April 26.
“We have been on a long, multi-year journey with the Marijuana Control Act. We have had countless hearings, debates, stakeholder engagement and deliberations. We have incorporated numerous suggestions and changes from interested parties – including the governor’s office – throughout this process to arrive at what I believe is the best possible plan for legalizing and regulating adult recreational marijuana,” said Rep. Osienski. “I am hopeful that the governor will take all of this into account as he considers these bills and that he will acknowledge the desires of an overwhelming majority of Delaware residents.”