Delaware 2023-2024 Regular Session

Delaware House Bill HB2

Introduced
1/20/23  
Introduced
1/20/23  
Refer
1/26/23  
Refer
1/20/23  
Engrossed
3/9/23  
Refer
1/26/23  
Engrossed
3/9/23  
Refer
3/15/23  
Refer
3/9/23  
Enrolled
3/28/23  
Refer
3/15/23  
Passed
4/27/23  
Enrolled
3/28/23  

Caption

An Act To Amend Titles 4, 11, 16, And 30 Of The Delaware Code Relating To Creation Of The Delaware Marijuana Control Act.

Impact

The introduction of HB2 has significant implications for state laws surrounding controlled substances. By legalizing and regulating marijuana, the act seeks to address longstanding criminal justice disparities, particularly highlighting the disproportionate impact of marijuana enforcement on minority communities. Proponents argue that regulated marijuana sales can lead to economic growth, job creation, and significant tax revenue for the state, akin to the experiences of other states like Colorado and Washington.

Summary

House Bill 2 (HB2) aims to amend the Delaware Code to establish the Delaware Marijuana Control Act. This legislation is designed to create a regulated marijuana industry, thereby eliminating the illegal market for cannabis and providing law enforcement with the necessary framework to manage its legal use. The bill introduces a comprehensive licensing system for the cultivation, manufacturing, and retail sale of marijuana, aiming to generate a new revenue stream for the state while ensuring marijuana is regulated similarly to alcohol, with usage restricted to those aged 21 and over.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB2 is mixed, reflecting a divide in public opinion regarding marijuana legalization. Supporters, including various community leaders and economic advocates, view the bill as a progressive step towards economic opportunity and an end to discriminatory policing practices. In contrast, opponents raise concerns about public safety, potential increases in marijuana use among youth, and the implications of local municipalities losing control over marijuana regulations within their jurisdictions.

Contention

A notable point of contention revolves around local control over marijuana establishments. While the bill allows municipalities some authority to regulate the specifics of marijuana business operations in their areas, there are concerns that this could lead to conflicts between state and local regulations. Some legislators fear that the one-size-fits-all approach could undermine localities' abilities to tailor regulations that address their unique community issues, further complicating the implementation of the new law.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

DE HB1

An Act To Amend Title 16 Of The Delaware Code Relating To Marijuana.

DE HB281

An Act To Amend Title 29 Of The Delaware Code Relating To State Health Care Insurance.

DE HB282

An Act To Amend Title 29 Of The Delaware Code Relating To The State Employee Benefits Committee.

DE HB350

An Act To Amend Title 16 Of The Delaware Code Relating To Hospital Costs.

DE HB15

An Act To Amend Title 18 Of The Delaware Code Relating To Ovarian Cancer.

DE SB1

An Act To Amend Title 25 Of The Delaware Code Relating To The Residential Landlord-tenant Code.

DE SB51

An Act To Amend Title 16 Of The Delaware Code Relating To The Use Of Single-service Plastic Implements And Polystyrene Containers In Food Establishments.

DE HCR56

Acknowledging June 2023 As Lgbtq+ Pride Month In Delaware.

DE HB151

An Act To Amend Title 10 Of The Delaware Code Relating To Protection From Abuse Proceedings.

DE HCR21

Recognizing March 24, 2023 As Women And Girls In Stem Day In The State Of Delaware.

Similar Bills

DE HB98

An Act To Amend Title 4 And Title 16 Of The Delaware Code Relating To Alcohol And Marijuana.

DE HB334

An Act To Amend Titles 4 And 30 Of The Delaware Code Relating To Marijuana.

OK HB2646

Medical marijuana; clarifying duties of the Oklahoma Medical Marijuana Authority; codification; effective date.

CT SB00487

An Act Concerning The Legalization, Taxation And Regulation Of The Retail Sale And Recreational Use Of Marijuana And Concerning The Production And Regulation Of Hemp.

CT HB05458

An Act Concerning The Regulation Of The Retail Sale Of Marijuana.

OK SB1543

Medical marijuana; making Oklahoma Medical Marijuana Authority separate and distinct entity; providing for certain transfers; providing for appointment of Executive Director; modifying enforcement powers of Authority. Effective date.

VA SB1133

Cannabis control; retail market, transitional sales, regulated hemp products, penalties.

OK HB2674

Tobacco, nicotine and vapor products; purchase by minors; scope of certain crimes and penalties to include nicotine products; prohibitions pertaining to nicotine products; emergency.