Delaware Governor Signs Bill That Allows Terminally Ill Access to Marijuana

Delaware Governor Jack Markel signed “Bob’s Bill” into law on August 31, which allows adults with terminal illnesses and patients under 18 who are terminally ill with pain, anxiety, or depression access to medical marijuana. Applications will be accepted in about 3 months.

Crystal Jester, wife of the bill’s namesake, said, “My heart overflows today.”

Delaware’s medical marijuana program was signed into law in 2011, 12 News reported. Cancer, MS, and seizure disorders were initially approved. Anyone is permitted to petition the program to add additional medical conditions to the qualifying conditions list.

Rich Jester, Bob Jester’s surviving son, said, “Ultimately this is the best way I could think of to honor his memory.”

Delaware decriminalized marijuana in 2015. Possession of marijuana up to one ounce is a civil violation, similar to a parking ticket, rather than a criminal offense.

After having difficulty coping with his father’s condition, Rich’s mother told him, “Let go of the pain, son, or use it to do some good.” That comment is what motivated Rich to get moving on speaking to legislators about adding terminal illness to the qualifying conditions list.