Gov. DeSantis Voices Strong Opposition to Marijuana Legalization in Florida
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — As Florida voters prepare to decide on legalizing recreational marijuana, Governor Ron DeSantis has expressed firm opposition to the proposal, warning of what he perceives as risks to the state’s quality of life and public safety. The vote on Amendment 3, scheduled for November, could position Florida alongside 24 other states that permit adult-use marijuana if it garners the required 60% voter approval.
At a recent press conference, DeSantis raised concerns about the initiative, which he claims is primarily backed by a Canadian corporation, Trulieve, that stands to benefit significantly if the amendment passes. DeSantis remarked that the amendment “essentially allows a Canadian marijuana company to monopolize marijuana sales in Florida.” However, this assertion is misleading. Trulieve, while publicly traded on the Canadian Securities Exchange, is based in Florida, with its headquarters in Quincy and 142 operating locations statewide.
Legal Provisions and Personal Use Limits
Under Amendment 3, adults 21 and older would be able to legally purchase and possess up to three ounces of marijuana for personal use. Governor DeSantis emphasized that this could mean a large quantity of marijuana available for individual use, equating three ounces to approximately 85 pre-rolled joints based on existing medical dispensary packaging.
While DeSantis expressed concern that the amendment could lead to widespread marijuana use in public spaces, the text of the amendment provides that the Florida Legislature retains the authority to regulate or prohibit marijuana use in public. This allowance gives lawmakers control similar to that exercised over alcohol and tobacco.
Black Market and Drug Safety Concerns
DeSantis also cited states like Colorado and California, where he argued that legalization had contributed to black-market sales and the influx of dangerous drugs. While both states have experienced challenges with illicit marijuana markets, advocates argue that legalization enables product safety through state-mandated third-party testing, which aims to keep harmful substances, such as pesticides or other drugs, out of consumer products.
A recent hearing by the Florida House of Representatives underscored safety concerns surrounding black-market cannabis. According to law enforcement, around 90% of illicit marijuana confiscated and tested by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement contained contaminants, underscoring the risk posed by unregulated products.
DeSantis on Medical Marijuana
Despite his opposition to recreational marijuana, DeSantis has supported medical marijuana in Florida. Shortly after taking office, he signed legislation allowing for medical use, emphasizing that Floridians currently have access to cannabis for medical needs. He questioned the necessity of expanding access, suggesting that medical availability adequately meets demand.
As the vote approaches, the debate over marijuana legalization is likely to intensify, with both supporters and opponents preparing for a critical decision that could reshape Florida’s cannabis landscape.
