More than 965,000 signatures collected to legalize recreational marijuana in Florida, Trulieve says.
TAMPA, Fla. – Trulieve says it has collected more than 965,000 signatures for the Smart and Safe Campaign to legalize the adult use of recreational marijuana in Florida. That’s more than enough signatures to get on the 2024 ballot, assuming the ballot language is approved by the state supreme court, a heavily conservative-leaning court. Attorney General Ashley Moody is among those fighting it, saying the court should reject the proposal. Still, this advancement in the process has the pro-legalization side feeling confident. “I have confidence that it’s going to pass the Supreme Court review. And then really, you know, it’s up to the voters and the people of Florida,” said Michael Minardi, an attorney and Chairman of Regulate Florida.
If the initiative does pass, it would need the approval of at least 60 percent of voters. In 2016, 71 percent of voters approved medical marijuana. Minardi believes legalization would increase tourism, jobs and create a tax windfall. “Absolutely, I would see in excess of, you know, one to two billion dollars the first couple of years of adult use here in the state of Florida,” he said. On the other hand, opponents say Florida doesn’t need another intoxicant, especially in the hands of kids. “There’re more problems with abuse and addiction. We need more treatment. So, I think the costs would be much higher than the average voter would know about,” said Ellen Snelling with the Hillsborough County Anti-Drug Alliance. “It’s kind of like marijuana on crack. We do not need this legalized in our state,” she added. Trulieve says it has polling that shows 65 percent of Floridians support legalization.
You can view the whole article at this link More than 965,000 signatures collected to legalize recreational marijuana in Florida, Trulieve says.
Back to the Future, Now 2024 on the Ballot !
The Florida Supreme Court has given the green light to a ballot measure that could pave the way for recreational marijuana legalization in the state. If this provision receives 60 percent approval from voters in November, it will make recreational marijuana use legal in Florida, which is the third-most populous state in the country1. Here are the key points:
- The ballot initiative aims to amend the Florida Constitution to allow individuals over 21 years old to purchase and consume marijuana.
- Additionally, it seeks to protect medical marijuana clinics and future licensed businesses from criminal penalties for selling marijuana for recreational use.
- The proposal faced legal challenges, including opposition from Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody and other groups. However, the Supreme Court disagreed with their argument that the initiative covered more than one subject.
- The Court’s opinion emphasized that allowing businesses to distribute personal-use marijuana and authorizing individuals to possess it are logically related. Legalization of marijuana implies availability for consumers, and selling it cannot reasonably occur while possession remains criminalized.
- The group Smart and Safe Florida, which pushed for the issue to be on the ballot, expressed satisfaction with the decision and looks forward to advocating for safe cannabis use among adults.
- On the other hand, Florida House Speaker Paul Renner criticized the ballot initiative, calling it overly broad and driven by self-interests.
Recreational pot is now set to be a significant issue driving Florida voters to the polls on November 5th. For the change to take effect, 60% of Floridians must vote in favor of it12
More than 965,000 signatures collected to legalize recreational marijuana in Florida, and the Florida Supreme Court Agrees. No April Fools, majority Rules. #IntheWeedswithSteveBe patient Florida, this too, shall pass!
Florida has specific laws regarding marijuana, and it’s essential to understand them. Here are the key points:
- Medical Use:
- Medical use of marijuana is legal in Florida.
- Qualifying patients (21 years and older) with specific medical conditions can purchase or use medical marijuana as recommended by licensed physicians.
- Some qualifying conditions include ALS, cancer, epilepsy, glaucoma, HIV/AIDS, multiple sclerosis, PTSD, and chronic pain related to specific medical conditions.
- Minors can designate adult caregivers to assist in obtaining medical marijuana.
- Recreational Use:
- Recreational cannabis remains illegal in Florida.
- Possession of any amount of weed is against the law.
- Possession of more than 20 grams (25 lbs) of cannabis is considered a felony.
- Growing Marijuana:
- Individuals and businesses are prohibited from growing marijuana.
- However, state-licensed cultivators are allowed to grow it.
- Penalties:
- Florida imposes fines and jail time for simple possession of marijuana.
- Possession of any quantity of marijuana is illegal.
- Medical Marijuana Cards:
- Patients must possess active medical marijuana cards to legally use medical marijuana.
- Over 750,000 Floridians currently hold active medical marijuana cards.
- More than 2,500 certified doctors assist in determining appropriate medical marijuana treatments.
- Dispensaries:
- There are over 450 open marijuana dispensary locations in Florida as of October 2022.
- Legalization Efforts:
- Florida residents and lawmakers have been exploring adult-use marijuana legalization.
- In January 2022, the Florida Senate filed a bill to amend the current legislation on adult-use marijuana legalization1.
Remember that while medical use is permitted, recreational marijuana remains illegal in Florida, and the state prescribes stiff penalties for those caught in possession of the drug2345.
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