Will Florida Legalize The Recreational Use Of Marijuana?
In the midst of recreational marijuana becoming officially legal in California, many are now wondering if Florida next. There have been rumors of a proposed constitutional amendment to legalize the recreational use of marijuana via the Florida state ballot, which would allow for the sale of up to one ounce of cannabis and the cultivation of up to six flowering plants per household (amongst adults 21 years of age and older).
Florida voted in favor of medical marijuana via Amendment 2 in 2016, which went into effect in January 2017. However, a ballot initiative for a constitutional amendment on the recreational use of the substance would require more than 750,000 signatures; 60 percent or more of support from voters; and likely millions of dollars to achieve both. Those in favor have projected the year 2020 as the earliest date recreational use could become legal here in the sunshine state.
Florida Medical Marijuana & Filed Lawsuit
There have been multiple challenges associated with the recent medical marijuana legalization. As of now, a medical marijuana patient can only have one provider. If someone wants to find a new provider, that doctor has to first deactivate the patient. If the patient cannot locate that doctor, there is no real solution to the problem.
In addition, with health centers facing roadblocks due to legislative actions to limit qualifying conditions and the state’s delay in issuing medical cards to patients, many have found themselves temporarily or permanently closing in order to first work on clarifying and fixing some of these issues prior to distributing again. A number have suddenly shut their doors, creating multiple hurdles for those in need of medical marijuana.
It is also noteworthy that there is an existing lawsuit filed against the state for limitations it placed on the medical use of marijuana; only allowing its consumption in edible and “vape” forms, and prohibiting those with a medical marijuana license to smoke the substance. Many now argue that in order to abide by full legalization of medical use of the substance, Florida would first need to allow cannabis to be smoked.
Drug Crime Criminal Defense Lawyers Serving Florida and Massachusetts
If you have any questions about the legal use of marijuana in Florida, or if you face charges related to the illegal use of marijuana (medical or recreational), speaking with an experienced Florida drug crime lawyer is imperative.
At the Baez Law Firm, our team of attorneys has a thorough understanding of Florida state and Federal drug laws. We will ensure that you are acting within the law at all times and do not accidentally put yourself in a compromising position. If you have questions or concerns about the legality of your situation, contact us today.
Resources:
wtsp.com/news/politics/florida/california-legalized-recreational-marijuana-is-florida-next/504068467
fox13news.com/news/local-news/group-pushes-for-recreational-marijuana-in-florida
