Florida Voters to Decide on Amendment 3 for Recreational Cannabis Legalization

LOS ANGELES- Voters in Florida are approaching a pivotal decision on Amendment 3, which proposes to legalize recreational cannabis. Multiple polls indicate strong support for the amendment, suggesting it is likely to pass.

Amendment 3 would allow individuals aged 21 and older to possess up to three ounces of dried cannabis flower and up to five grams of cannabis concentrates. These products would be available through licensed retailers, with medical cannabis dispensaries able to apply for dual licenses to serve both medical patients and recreational consumers. The supply chain would involve licensed growers, producers, and testing labs.

As Amendment 3 aims to change Florida’s constitution, it requires at least 60% voter approval. Recent polling shows support exceeding this threshold. A University of North Florida poll in November found 67% of likely voters in favor, with 28% opposed. Support among Democrats was 78%, Republicans 55%, and non-partisans/others 69%. This poll has a margin of error of +/-4.37%.

A Fox News poll conducted in June reported similar results, with 66% support and 32% opposition, and a margin of error of +/-3%. Another poll reported by Florida Politics this month showed 64% support, with 30% opposed.

The only recent poll showing support below 60% was a USA Today/Ipsos survey from April, indicating 56% support, 40% opposition, and 4% undecided, with a margin of error of 4%. Even this poll suggests a potential path to victory given the undecided voters.

Smart & Safe Florida, the organization backing Amendment 3, has amassed over $60 million in funding, the highest amount raised for any statewide cannabis initiative in U.S. history. In contrast, Governor Ron DeSantis’ political action committee opposing the initiative has raised only $10,000, sourced from former U.S. Representative Keith Rothfus (R), who has historically opposed cannabis reforms.

Governor DeSantis has voiced his opposition, emphasizing concerns about public safety and the impact on community standards. “We already have medical cannabis, but we need to keep our streets clean. We cannot have every town smelling like cannabis,” DeSantis stated.

Florida voters will ultimately decide on Amendment 3, which, if passed, will significantly alter the state’s legal landscape for cannabis use.