Florida Chamber of Commerce Launches Campaign Against Cannabis Legalization Amendment

LOS ANGELES- The Florida Chamber of Commerce has launched an online campaign opposing Amendment 3, a ballot initiative that could legalize adult-use cannabis in the state. Through its website, flbizagainsta3.com, the Chamber aims to educate voters on what it views as the economic and social risks of cannabis legalization. The campaign is spearheaded by the Chamber’s President and CEO, Mark Wilson, who argues that the amendment would have significant negative impacts on Florida’s business environment, public safety, and quality of life.

Wilson, in a video featured on the site, compares the legalization push to past constitutional amendments in Florida, stating, “Just like pregnant pigs had no place in our state constitution decades ago, legalizing drugs should not be added simply because of a well-funded campaign.” The Chamber claims that Amendment 3 would harm local businesses and increase public health and safety concerns, drawing attention to experiences in other states where cannabis has been legalized​

The Chamber’s campaign is part of a larger coalition opposing the amendment, which includes Governor Ron DeSantis, the Florida Sheriffs Association, and other business and legislative leaders. The opposition highlights concerns about the impact on industries, potential regulatory challenges, and implications for Florida’s “family-friendly” image. According to Wilson, the measure could drive up operational costs for businesses and undermine the state’s economic appeal​

In contrast, supporters of Amendment 3 have raised significant funds to push for legalization. According to Ballotpedia, pro-legalization groups had collected over $90 million by late September 2024, making it one of the most expensive cannabis legalization campaigns since 2010​ .Proponents argue that the initiative could bring economic benefits, including increased tax revenue, but the Chamber remains firm in its opposition, warning of long-term consequences that outweigh any short-term financial gains​

The upcoming vote on Amendment 3 will decide whether Florida joins 24 other U.S. states that have legalized recreational cannabis. The debate is expected to intensify as Election Day approaches, with both sides ramping up their efforts to sway undecided voters.