In a loss for Delaware marijuana enthusiasts, the state’s governor John Carney has vetoed legislation that would legalize recreational marijuana.
On Tuesday Carney (D) announced that he is vetoing legislation that would have legalized recreational marijuana in the First State, saying it was not in the best interests of the state.
The governor said he recognizes the “positive effect” that the drug can have for some with health conditions. He also said that he supports decriminalization “because I agree that individuals should not be imprisoned solely for the possession and private use of a small amount of marijuana — and today, thanks to Delaware’s decriminalization law, they are not.”
He also added that he does not believe that “promoting or expanding” recreational marijuana use “is in the best interests of the state of Delaware, especially our young people.
“Questions about the long-term health and economic impacts of recreational marijuana use, as well as serious law enforcement concerns, remain unresolved,” he said.
Rep. Ed Osienski, who sponsored both pieces of legislation, said in a statement he was “deeply disappointed” by Carney’s veto, and that he would “review what options are available and decide on any next steps at a later time.”
Democratic lawmakers could seek to override the veto, but it is not clear if they will seek to do so. It would also require a 3/5ths majority.
