Milford, DE — Delaware is on the verge of a significant milestone with the upcoming launch of recreational cannabis sales, signaling a major shift in the state’s economic and social landscape. State officials, including Governor Matt Meyer and the Delaware Marijuana Commissioner, recently toured the First State Compassion production facility in Milford to highlight the industry’s readiness.
The visit on July 30, 2025, marked a symbolic moment as Delaware prepares for the first wave of adult-use cannabis sales in the coming months. Governor Meyer called the development a "transformative opportunity" for Delaware, noting the potential of cannabis sales to stimulate job growth, increase tax revenue, and provide safer options for consumers.
“This is about more than cannabis—it’s about building a responsible and equitable industry from the ground up,” Meyer said during the tour.
The First State Compassion facility showcased the sophisticated infrastructure behind the state's medical cannabis program, which will soon support recreational demand. With its advanced cultivation and processing capabilities, the site underscores Delaware’s readiness to handle the expanded scale of cannabis sales responsibly.
Officials stressed that legalizing recreational cannabis sales is not only about economic benefits. It’s also a matter of public policy and social justice. Governor Meyer emphasized the importance of reducing arrests for non-violent cannabis offenses and creating opportunities for communities disproportionately affected by past enforcement.
Delaware passed its recreational cannabis law in 2023, but has taken a phased, strategic approach to implementation. Establishing a cannabis commission, setting regulatory standards, and developing licensing structures have all paved the way for a controlled and fair market. Now, with those systems in place, cannabis sales are ready to begin.
The Delaware Marijuana Commissioner reiterated the state’s commitment to inclusivity and fairness. “Our focus is not just on launching cannabis sales, but on building a sustainable market that supports small businesses and social equity applicants,” she said.
To avoid corporate monopolization and ensure wide participation, the state will prioritize applicants from underserved communities and local entrepreneurs when issuing licenses for cannabis sales.
As Delaware prepares to join a growing list of states with legal recreational cannabis sales, the emphasis remains on doing it the right way—with thoughtful policy, community input, and long-term planning.
For residents, the launch of recreational cannabis sales is more than just access—it’s a reflection of progress, responsibility, and a future where cannabis is handled with care and accountability.
Stay tuned as Delaware takes its next bold step into the era of legal cannabis sales.