Delaware Lawmakers Uncertain On Pot Legalization

DOVER, DE — Delaware lawmakers are still uncertain about the consequences of legalizing recreational marijuana use as the reporting deadline nears for a panel studying issues surrounding legalization issues.

Democratic Rep. Helene Keeley of Wilmington, a panel co-chair and chief sponsor of a legalization bill that stalled in the General Assembly last year, said Wednesday that concerns about pot smokers driving under the influence remains a major topic of discussion for lawmakers and law enforcement officials.

Business interests remain concerned about workplace safety and the ability of employers to prohibit pot smoking by employees.

The task force is expected to issue its report and recommendations by late February, but it's still uncertain whether any revised legalization bill could gain the required super-majority to pass the General Assembly.

Meanwhile, U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions announced an end to an Obama-era policy Thursday that allow legalized marijuana to flourish in states like Alaska despite a continued federal ban. Residents in states that had legalized the drug then began to worry that the status quo they had taken for granted may be more fragile than it appeared.

By RANDALL CHASE, Associated Press

AP Photo/Mathew Sumner