DOVER, Del. - For the sixth time, Delaware lawmakers have introduced legislation aimed at legalizing recreational marijuana.
HB 1 and HB 2 were introduced Friday afternoon by prime sponsor Rep. Ed Osienski (D).
Democrats have been trying to legalize pot in the state for 10 years and have repeatedly been defeated by members within their own party. The legislation came close to passing in 2022 but was vetoed by Gov. John Carney (D) who has often said he adamantly opposes legalization. Efforts to override the veto failed.
In a news release, supporters of the legislation said Delaware lawmakers are "making their sixth attempt to catch up to our neighbors and end the decades-old, harmful policy of cannabis prohibition..."
Gov. Carney will remain in office for two more years and most believe it is unlikely he will change his opinion during that time.
WBOC spoke to Delawareans on Friday to hear their thoughts and opinions on the legalization of marijuana in the first state.
Some residents say it's time for the drug to become legal, in addition to growing the plant.
"Everyone smokes it," says Tony Didomenico. "I don't smoke it personally but a lot of people smoke it and it should be legal so you don't have to worry about carrying it."
Other residents agree with Governor Carney that the law should remain as it is.
"There's a lot of pros and cons and my way would be no," says Jim Johnston.
Governor Carney has said numerous times his stance on marijuana has not changed. If the governor were to veto a bill again this year, it would take a three fifths vote in each chamber to overturn Carney's decision.