By Edmund Bogen | January 10, 2022
The issue of legalizing marijuana in Florida has been a contentious one, with the state still not fully united in its stance on the decriminalization of marijuana possession in small amounts. Currently, those caught with 20 grams or less of marijuana can be charged with a misdemeanor and potentially sentenced to up to 1 year in prison and fined $1,000. Punishments increase for larger amounts of marijuana.
In 2016, Florida voters had the opportunity to consider a constitutional amendment that would have legalized the possession of up to one ounce of marijuana for residents at least 21 years old. The amendment would have also allowed residents to cultivate up to six plants per household, but only three or fewer plants could be mature or flowering. These plants would have needed to be grown in “an enclosed, locked space” and it would have been illegal to sell the plants.
If the amendment had passed, marijuana would have been treated much like alcohol in Florida. It would have been prohibited for residents under 21 years of age, consumers would have needed to show proof of age before purchasing marijuana from retail facilities, and it would have been illegal to drive while impaired or under the influence of marijuana. The amendment would also have outlined regulations for marijuana cultivation, retail marijuana sales, and manufacturing of marijuana products.
Ultimately, the amendment did not pass, and the issue of legalizing marijuana in Florida remains a hotly debated topic. Some argue that marijuana should be legalized and regulated in a manner similar to alcohol, while others believe that the potential negative consequences of marijuana use outweigh any potential benefits. It remains to be seen how the issue will be resolved in the future.