Delaware is making significant strides in cannabis reform as it moves forward with plans to expand its medical marijuana program and provide banking protections for cannabis businesses. The state, which legalized adult-use marijuana last year, is taking proactive steps to ensure patient access to medical cannabis and financial services for industry operators.
A bill to expand Delaware’s medical marijuana program has passed the Senate in a 16-5 vote and is now heading to Governor John Carney’s desk for final approval. Sponsored by Rep. Ed Osienski, the legislation removes limitations on patient eligibility based on specific health conditions and allows doctors to recommend cannabis for any condition they see fit. Additionally, patients over the age of 65 can self-certify for medical cannabis access without a doctor’s recommendation.
Meanwhile, separate legislation to provide banking protections for cannabis businesses unanimously passed the House of Representatives and is moving to the Senate for consideration. Sponsored by Rep. Osienski, the bill aims to clarify that banks, credit unions, and other service providers are not subject to state-level prosecution for working with cannabis businesses. This move comes amid calls for federal cannabis banking reform and aims to address concerns about access to financial services for the industry.
The push for cannabis reform in Delaware reflects a broader trend of states adapting their laws to accommodate the growing cannabis industry. With adult-use legalization on the horizon, state lawmakers are taking proactive steps to ensure patient access to medical cannabis and create a regulatory framework that supports responsible cannabis businesses.
As Delaware prepares to roll out its adult-use cannabis market, regulators are working to finalize regulations for licensing, testing, transportation, and other key aspects of the industry. The Office of the Marijuana Commissioner is currently accepting public comments on proposed regulations, with plans to finalize rules by May 31.
Overall, Delaware’s efforts to expand its medical marijuana program and provide banking protections for cannabis businesses signal a commitment to supporting the state’s growing cannabis industry while ensuring patient access to safe and regulated cannabis products.
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