Marijuana now decriminalized in Delaware

Marijuana will be decriminalized in Delaware.

The State Senate passed the measure today and Governor Jack Markell swiftly signed it earlier this evening.

The bill passed with 12 Democrats voting in favor and nine Republicans against.

The new legislation will eliminate criminal penalties for marijuana possesion of one ounce or less for personal use.

It will be a civil offense a civil offense punishable by a $100 fine.

It remains a criminal offense for anyone under 18.

Delaware is now the 20th state in the U.S. to eliminate the possibilities of jail time for those in possession of small amounts of the drug.

The law is set to take effect in six months at the earliest.