Legislation filed Thursday would allow adults to use cannabis recreationally in the First State, following the 2011 creation of a medical marijuana program and the 2015 passage of a bill decriminalizing possession of small amounts of cannabis. Attempts to legalize the drug in the two prior General Assembly sessions failed, though the sponsors believe this time around will be different. House Bill 150 would let individuals age 21 and older buy up to 1 ounce of marijuana from licensed retail stores. The legislation would establish a 15% tax, though retailers would otherwise be able to set their own prices. Delawareans would not be allowed to grow their own cannabis. Using marijuana in public or in a vehicle would remain against the law, and employers would still be able to make their own policies prohibiting usage. Also, municipalities could pass ordinances preventing marijuana facilities from operating within their borders.
- Another reason to not support this bill — it goes in the general fund and is not earmarked towards education or health care. The taxes go where they can be misused and allocated. Do not support this bill. — Beth Gallagher
- With all the other major issues — work, being able to pay bills, medical issues that cost too much for many to afford, diabetes, heart medications, cancer prevention and treatment — recreational pot shouldn’t even be on the radar. No one needs more potheads growing, distributing, using, then not working because they are “mellowed out.” We don’t need them driving, working any machinery, even doing my taxes, representing me for speeding, stocking shelves. I am for documented, limited and controlled medically necessary use but not recreational. — Victoria M. Olds
- People really still think this way? — Wayne Grimm
- Can you tell me how many people have been killed by someone driving a car or operating heavy machinery after using marijuana? My guess is no, but if you really want to know the truth about it, I would be more than happy to share it with you. — Tim Stegner
- Try actually reading what is in the bill or the article even, then come back and have an educated conversation about it, not whatever it is your opinion is. — Chris Henry
- You’re an idiot if you think what she says won’t happen. It already does. This opens it up to make it worse. — Deborah Barnes
