Delaware Gov. The Delaware Governor Vetoes a Bill that would Loosen Cannabis Industry Zoning Rules

Delaware Gov. Spotlight Delaware reported that Matt Meyer (D), on Thursday, vetoed the proposal for a zoning regulation to be loosened by licensed cannabis retailers.

Republican legislators and county officials were deeply opposed to the Senate Bill 75. The bill was designed to address a recent wave of local government zoning regulations that were adopted in response to the legalization law. The bill’s supporters argued that it would help small businesses grow and benefit the cannabis industry.

Instead, the governor pushed for an alternative proposal which included a sharing of cannabis tax revenues with local governments.

Meyer wrote, “I fully support the objectives of implementing an equitable and safe adult-use cannabis marketplace in Delaware. However, replacing local land use authorities without a corresponding partner or support does not build trust or a durable policy.” — Meyer, in his veto letter

Senator Trey Paradee of the state Senate (D) condemned the decision by the governor to veto the bill, saying that “it will do irreparable injury to the dozens and dozens of small businesses who have won the lottery in order to open retail cannabis stores or grow facilities.”

Delaware began selling cannabis to adults earlier this month. The first weekend of sales saw retail outlets report total sales in excess of $625,000.

According to the report, there are still over 100 marijuana licenses that do not have any cannabis shops in Delaware.