Scam Alert: Delaware’s Marijuana Commissioner Issues Warning

3 July 2024

Delaware officials are cautioning residents about scams targeting potential applicants for the state’s recreational marijuana social equity program. The Office of the Marijuana Commissioner (OMC) has reported incidents where out-of-state entities have contacted applicants with false promises of securing licenses for a fee, often through unsolicited calls, emails, or postcards. Authorities, including the Department of Justice and the Division of Alcohol and Tobacco Enforcement, are investigating these incidents and urging residents to rely on official state resources for accurate information.

The state’s warning comes as Delaware continues implementing its recreational cannabis program, legalized in 2023. The OMC has conducted public workshops and launched an online database to help residents determine their eligibility for social equity licenses, which aim to assist communities disproportionately impacted by marijuana-related arrests and convictions. However, no licenses have been issued yet, creating opportunities for bad actors to exploit the system.

Scams like these jeopardize the goals of the social equity program by preying on disadvantaged applicants, potentially deterring participation and delaying the program’s rollout. Experts emphasize the need for strong state oversight and transparent communication to prevent such incidents. Addressing these issues is crucial to ensure compliance with evolving marijuana laws. Similar challenges in states like Illinois and Massachusetts underscore the importance of proactive education and enforcement to safeguard the integrity of cannabis social equity initiatives.