A Delaware Pro-Cannabis Group Is Touring the State Advocating Legalization

The Delaware Cannabis Advocacy Network (Delaware CAN) is working hard to help legalization efforts move forward in the state. The grassroots organization is currently touring the state advocating for legalization.

Delaware CAN hopes to see marijuana legalized and regulated like alcohol, according to Cape Gazette. Some of the speakers at the most recent rally include military veterans, attorneys and a doctor. The military veteran is also a former police officer.

Military veteran James Spadola said, “If alcohol and marijuana were to be discovered today it’s alcohol that would be illegal.”

Regarding legalization, Patchell said, “It’s inevitable. There’s bipartisan support, and a bill is expected to be introduced this month.”

Another veteran and business owner, Sam Chick, believes that proper regulation and taxation is the right approach.  He wants to see agricultural industries improve financially and for tourism to increase.

He said, “It could be a new cash crop that benefits both industries. We want that money right here in Delaware.”

Chick supports a plan that would cap the tax on recreational marijuana sales at 10-percent.

One of the attorneys that is attending rallies is Tom Donovan. He’s represented dozens of people at no cost (pro bono) that have been arrested for marijuana possession. He argues the social cost that these arrests are having on individuals and families.

Patchell is on the same page as at least one lawmaker in the state when she says that legalization is inevitable. Lieutenant Governor Bethany Hall-Long also believes it’s inevitable.

Multiple events are scheduled for the grassroots tour over the next few months.

Delaware spends about $22 million annually arresting and prosecuting marijuana users.