Delaware Senate Delays Confirmation of Marijuana Commissioner Nominee
The Delaware State Senate is putting the confirmation of Joshua Sanderlin, nominee for state marijuana commissioner, on hold until he divests from his financial interests in two cannabis businesses. Sanderlin, a cannabis attorney based in Washington D.C., was introduced as Governor Matt Meyer’s pick three weeks ago and faced initial questioning during his Senate confirmation hearing on Wednesday.
Concerns were raised by Senate President Pro Tempore Dave Sokola regarding Sanderlin’s affiliations with cannabis businesses outside Delaware. According to state law, the marijuana commissioner is prohibited from having financial interests in cannabis companies, which extends beyond Delaware’s borders. Sokola emphasized that Sanderlin must complete the divestment before being officially appointed.
While Sanderlin expressed a commitment to divest following full Senate confirmation, his name was absent from the Thursday Senate agenda. Despite this, Sokola indicated that the nomination had unanimous support from the Senate Executive Committee and a full Senate floor vote could occur soon.
Sanderlin has initiated the divestment process, with expectations of confirmation by early next week. However, concerns about potential conflicts of interest were voiced by State Senator Kyra Hoffner, highlighting the optics of the situation.
Sanderlin defended his business background, asserting that his experience in the cannabis industry would be beneficial for the role. He also affirmed his intent to cease practicing law if confirmed and expressed optimism about Delaware’s cannabis market potential.
Despite some frustrations over communication lapses with senators prior to the hearing, committee members acknowledged Sanderlin’s qualifications, leading to his unanimous support. A final confirmation vote is anticipated as early as Tuesday or Wednesday.
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