Politics

Delaware Decriminalizes the Possession of Cannabis

Published on June 19, 2015 · Last updated July 28, 2020

Congratulations, Delaware!

Senate lawmakers gave final legislative approval yesterday to a measure that decriminalizes the possession and private use of up to one ounce of cannabis. Once the law was approved by the Senate, it was passed onto the desk of Governor Jack Markell, who signed it almost immediately. The bill was introduced and sponsored by Representative Helene Keeley (D-Wilmington) and will reduce the penalties for simple possession down to a civil fine of $100, set to take effect six months from Governor Markell’s signature.

Although the measure received Democratic support in both the House and the Senate, it did not receive any Republican support. Senator Colin Bonini (R-Dover) was vocally against decriminalization, saying, “This is a bill we’re going to regret…Would you want your kid smoking weed?”

The decriminalization measure only affects adults over the age of 21, so the argument is kind of a moot point. Simple possession of cannabis by those under the age of 18 will still be a criminal offense, and for those between the ages of 18 and 21, the first offense will result in a civil penalty and any further offenses will escalate to a misdemeanor.

“People should do this in their own homes…It should be done in the privacy of their own homes,” said another chief sponsor of the bill, Senator Margaret Rose Henry (D-Wilmington East).

Great work, Delawareans! And many thanks to you, Governor Markell!

Shop highly rated stores near you

Showing you stores near
See all stores
Lisa Rough
Lisa Rough
Lisa is a former associate editor at Leafly, where she specialized in legislative cannabis policy and industry topics.
View Lisa Rough's articles
Get good reads, local deals, and strain spotlights delivered right to your inbox.

By providing us with your email address, you agree to Leafly's Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.



Stay In Touch

Receive updates on new products, special offers, and industry news.

By providing us with your email address, you agree to Leafly's Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Leafly mobile app
Get high for less.
Download the Leafly app.
Download Leafly: Marijuana Reviews on the App Store
Download Leafly Marijuana Reviews on Google Play




The material provided on Leafly is intended for educational and informational purposes only. Leafly is not engaged in rendering medical service or advice and the information provided is not a substitute for a professional medical opinion. If you have a medical problem, please contact a qualified health professional.


© 2024 Leafly, LLC
Leafly and the Leafly logo are registered trademarks of Leafly, LLC. All Rights Reserved.