Issue Position: Smarter drug policies that create more efficient law enforcement

Issue Position

Whether you wish to accept it or not, the legalization of marijuana is coming to Delaware, likely within the next few years. A poll conducted in March of 2014, showed that more than two-thirds of Delawareans favor some form of legalization. We have an opportunity to learn from the successes and mistakes of other states, like Colorado and Washington, so we should proceed with caution if we wish to avoid any negative impact on our youth and society.

A small, first step was proposed this past legislative session. I was a co-sponsor of House Bill 371, which would have decriminalized possession of small amounts of marijuana for individuals over the age of 21. The bill was not brought to the floor for a vote. I was contacted by members of law enforcement who wanted me to know that they had my support. I am told that every time a police officer makes an arrest for a small amount of marijuana, they are likely off the road for the rest of their shift. Weeks later, they spend the better part of the day at the court house waiting for trial. Our officers' time could be better spent dealing with more serious crimes. We are clogging up our courts. We have wasted millions of dollars on a failed policy. We are ruining the lives of many young people who make a foolish decision that will haunt them for the rest of their lives. We should reinvest the savings into drug education and addiction services.

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