Governor Meyer’s Cannabis Commissioner Pick Is the Right Move—Now Delaware Must Open the Market Without Delay

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Governor Meyer’s appointment of Delaware’s next cannabis commissioner, Joshua Sanderlin, marks a new chapter for the First State’s approach to adult-use cannabis. This thoughtful selection reflects not only a commitment to public health and safety, but an understanding of the economic and regulatory opportunities that lie ahead. The appointed 

commissioner brings a deep knowledge of the law and an established track record in responsible cannabis oversight. This is precisely the kind of leadership Delaware needs as we stand on the brink of unlocking a transformative new industry.

 

But the truth is, Delaware can’t afford to wait any longer to open its adult-use cannabis marketplace. This state is poised for real, tangible benefits—economic growth, social equity opportunities, job creation, and vital tax revenue that will fund state and local programs. According to industry projections, a fully operational adult-use cannabis sector could generate $215 million annually, including $43 million in annual tax revenue for Delaware. In 2023, the medical program alone delivered $53 million in total sales. The adult-use program will not mean just more dollars, but new jobs—approximately 1,400 in the first five years, many supporting social equity licensees.

 

Unfortunately, every day of regulatory delay means Delaware is losing out. Neighboring states like New Jersey and Maryland have already gone live, drawing away millions in potential tax dollars. As each week passes, we risk seeing our own residents cross state lines—or worse, turn to an expanding illicit market that operates outside all safety, health, and taxation frameworks. 

 

The costs of delay are more than economic—they’re a matter of public safety.

 

A recent Secret Shopper Campaign conducted by Our Delaware across the state shines a harsh spotlight on the risks posed by the state’s illicit cannabis market. Investigators purchased 30 illegal cannabis products at gas stations and smoke shops statewide and submitted them for laboratory testing. The results were nothing short of alarming:

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• Over 83% of products failed to comply with federal law.

• Nearly a quarter contained harmful contaminants, including banned pesticides, high concentrations of mold, and hazardous solvents.

• 63% contained synthetic cannabinoids, with some samples containing chemical cocktails that raise real questions about safety and toxicity.

• Every product analyzed had inaccurate labeling—ranging from misstated THC content to omitted warnings and improper dosage information.

• Edibles had wildly inconsistent and dangerously high THC levels. Some products, like the so-called “Blackout Brownie,” contained single servings with 100 times the legal THC limit of most states.

• Packaging routinely used neon colors, cartoon imagery, and resembled popular snack items, clearly targeting children—directly contravening the youth safety standards being drafted by Delaware regulators.

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These findings make it plain: every day the legal market is stalled, Delaware consumers—especially youth—are exposed to real and present dangers from untested, mislabeled, and potentially toxic products.

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Governor Meyer’s selection of a seasoned, knowledgeable commissioner is the first step. Now, Delaware must move swiftly to unlock the adult-use market by allowing the seven already operational medical dispensaries to serve adult-use customers immediately. This simple action, while regulators continue to address compliance and licensing for new entrants, would instantly create new jobs, deliver desperately needed tax revenue, and—most importantly—replace the illicit market with a regulated, safe, and transparent system.

 

Delaware has a chance to lead, not lag, in the implementation of responsible adult-use cannabis. We applaud Governor Meyer’s decision and urge the new commissioner to act with urgency—because the health, safety, and prosperity of Delawareans depend on it.

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Chris Lindsey is the Vice President of Policy and State Advocacy at the American Trade Association of Cannabis and Hemp.