Florida Supreme Court to Review Proposed Cannabis Legalization Amendment

LOS ANGELES– In a recent development, Florida’s attorney general, Ashley Moody, has filed a request with the state Supreme Court to reject a proposed constitutional amendment aimed at legalizing cannabis for adult use in the Sunshine State. Citing concerns over potential voter deception, Moody argued that the ballot summary would be misleading in key aspects, particularly due to the substance’s illegal status under federal law.

The campaign for the amendment, led by Smart and Safe Florida but primarily funded by Trulieve, the state’s largest medical cannabis company, has contributed a substantial $39 million as of the end of May. Supporters of the initiative assert that the language of the proposed amendment complies with constitutional requirements, expressing confidence in the legality of their cause.

Steve Vancore, spokesman for Smart & Safe Florida, expressed optimism about the forthcoming proceedings in the Supreme Court, stating, “We look forward to bringing this matter to the Florida Supreme Court and are confident that the court will conclude that there is no lawful basis to set aside the ballot initiative.” Vancore emphasized the importance of democratic choice, noting that over a million Floridians have already voiced their support for the amendment by signing the Smart & Safe Florida petition.

Notably, the Supreme Court has received additional briefs from opposing parties, including the Florida Chamber of Commerce and Drug Free America Foundation. Lawyers representing the Chamber have argued that the proposed amendment violates the single-subject requirement for ballot initiatives, asserting that it encompasses both decriminalization and commercialization of adult-use cannabis without adequately disclosing the primary purpose of the amendment, which is the commercialization of recreational marijuana. Moreover, they contend that the amendment would prevent adults aged 21 and older from cultivating cannabis for personal use.

The Supreme Court’s involvement in this matter follows the successful collection of enough signatures by the campaign to include the proposed amendment on the 2024 ballots. As the legal battle ensues, the fate of cannabis legalization in Florida hangs in the balance, awaiting the court’s decision and its potential implications for the state’s future.