Delaware Set to Launch Recreational Marijuana Sales on August 1
After years of anticipation, Delaware is finally set to begin recreational marijuana sales on August 1. The state’s seven medical marijuana operators have converted to adult-use cannabis sales, with over 10 locations expected to be up and running in August.
However, the decision to allow existing medical marijuana businesses to start selling recreational marijuana first has sparked criticism from advocates and residents. They argue that it puts new businesses at an unfair disadvantage, as the existing operators have already established a customer base and have a head start in the market.
The state’s Office of the Marijuana Commissioner (OMC) has been working to issue licenses to new businesses, but the process has been slow due to delays in FBI background checks. As of June 18, only 43 individuals have cleared their background checks, and the OMC has not yet issued conditional licenses to all applicants.
Despite the challenges, the OMC is committed to building a safe, equitable, and accountable marijuana market. The office is working to issue conditional licenses to previously selected applicants, allowing them to begin operations once active.
The launch of recreational marijuana sales in Delaware comes with some restrictions. Municipalities have the power to prohibit marijuana businesses from their jurisdictions, and some have chosen to opt out. Additionally, Sussex County has placed significant restrictions on the location of marijuana shops.
State lawmakers are still working to revise the law that made recreational sales legal, with a bill pending consideration from Governor Matt Meyer (D). The bill aims to lessen restrictions on marijuana businesses, including zoning rules and funding for social equity applicants.
For now, customers looking to purchase recreational marijuana will need to visit one of the existing medical marijuana dispensaries, which have converted to adult-use sales. The first day of sales is expected to be busy, with customers eager to try the state’s new recreational marijuana products.
Here are the locations of the seven medical marijuana operators that have converted to adult-use sales:
* First State Compassion (Wilmington, Lewes, Milford, Smyrna, Rehoboth Beach)
* Fresh Cannabis (Milford, Newark, Seaford)
* The Farm (Felton, New Castle)
* Best Buds (Dover, Georgetown)
As the recreational marijuana market in Delaware continues to develop, it’s likely that new businesses will emerge and the market will become more competitive. For now, customers can look forward to a new era of legal marijuana sales in the First State.
