Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Delaware lawmakers propose expunging pot possession convictions

Delaware Public Media

Delawareans found guilty of possessing pot may be able to get that conviction erased from their record.

Legislation introduced by Senate Minority Whip Greg Lavelle (R-Sharpley) would allow people convicted of having less than an ounce of marijuana to get an expungement. Delaware decriminalized having small amounts of pot in 2015.

Lavelle said it helps people convicted before the law was changed.

“The idea is to provide some equitably and fairness around the fact we’ve decriminalized an ounce or less of marijuana a couple of years ago,” he said.

The bill is limited to people who have only a marijuana conviction on their record. Delawareans with other convictions are ineligible.

Lavelle estimates more than 1,000 people could get their records sealed if the bill passes.

Under the proposal, individuals must request an expungement and pay a fee.

Related Content