BAG Blog
Roll up the Constitution for Recreation
By Vanessa Davis-Frederick, Host and Director of the Impact Radio Show - Live on Thursdays at 8:30pm on VictoryWCGL 1360AM 94.7 FM | November 2, 2024
As the tide of marijuana legalization sweeps across the United States, a new initiative in Florida is stirring up conversations, drawing support from an unexpected coalition. Their backing aims to push for a constitutional amendment to legalize the recreational use of marijuana for adults 21 and older. This movement is part of the larger national conversation about the future of cannabis regulation – and the history of America’s sin taxation.
The Push for Legalization: What It Means for Florida
If this amendment passes, it would allow individuals to possess up to three ounces and up to five grams in the form of cannabis concentrate. Currently, cannabis is legal for recreational use in 24 states and Washington, D.C. Florida; however, it remains one of the 10 states with a medical process but no recreational law on the books. The proposed amendment would expand the existing medical laws to permit recreational use, allowing Medical Marijuana Treatment Centers (MMTCs) to sell it to adults for personal use. This isn’t just about expanding access; it’s also poised to significantly impact Florida’s tax income.
For southern folk, the debate is complex. Some see the benefits of generating additional tax revenue, which could go toward improving public services like schools, parks, and community health programs. Others are concerned about the potential risks, especially regarding impaired driving and access by minors.
A Growing National Trend: Lessons from Other States
Of course, if it passes, we would not be blazing a new trail. As of September 2024, recreational marijuana is legal in nearly half the U.S. We can be smart and use the experiences of these states to provide a roadmap for Florida in addressing concerns raised by community members.
In 13 states and Washington, D.C., legalization came through citizen-initiated ballot measures, while in nine others, it was enacted through legislation. Grassroots efforts and citizens’ petitions played a critical role in bringing the issue to the ballot for Floridians, which is special because it means the community cares about this issue.
However, Florida’s Governor, Ron DeSantis, is staunchly opposed to the initiative, having created The Florida Freedom Fund to counter both this marijuana legalization and a separate abortion rights initiative. His opposition, along with campaigns from public health advocates, has led to a surge of fear-mongering ads from physicians in states like California, warning of potential dangers to children and youth.
Health and Safety Concerns: What’s at Stake?
As with any major shift in drug policy, legalization comes with its set of concerns. For some of us, public safety tops the list. There are fears that cannabis could be more accessible to children despite regulations, as well as questions about how law enforcement will manage impaired driving. Studies from legalized states show mixed results. Some have seen a rise in marijuana-related DUIs, while others report no significant change in overall driving safety.
The argument is often made that marijuana, like alcohol and prescription drugs, should come with strict guidelines and penalties for misuse. Prescription medications already advise against driving while impaired by them, it would be great to have regulations for these instances that could apply to DUIs to ensure that public safety remains intact from unregulated drug use.
Economic and Social Justice Benefits
One of the most compelling arguments for legalization in Florida is the potential economic boost it could provide, especially for underserved communities. Legalizing marijuana would create new business opportunities, from cultivation to retail, offering a path for entrepreneurs to enter the industry. Additionally, it would reduce the strain on the criminal justice system, which has disproportionately impacted Black and brown communities.
Under current laws, marijuana-related arrests continue to burden the legal system. Black people are more likely to be arrested for possession despite similar usage rates to white people. A legal, regulated market could reduce these disparities and free up law enforcement resources for more pressing concerns.
For supporters like John Morgan and Kamala Harris, the push for legalization is not only about personal freedom but also about correcting historical injustices tied to marijuana prohibition. These lawyers know the impact of drug crimes on the system. They believe this constitutional amendment could pave the way for a more equitable legal landscape in Florida.
The Road Ahead: What’s Next for Florida?
As the November election approaches, voters across Florida will have a critical decision. Will they join the 24 other states that have embraced recreational marijuana, or will concerns about public health and safety hold the initiative back
Regardless of the outcome, the conversation about legalization in Florida has brought together a coalition of unlikely allies and sparked essential discussions about freedom, public health, and social justice. For this community, the question remains: does the promise of economic opportunity and justice outweigh the potential risks? Only time will tell how the voters of Florida will weigh in.
References:
- Florida Division of Elections. (2024). Adult Personal Use of Marijuana – Constitutional Amendment Full Text (PDF). Retrieved October 8, 2024, from https://dos.elections.myflorida.com.
- Mitchell, J. (2023, May 2). Florida marijuana legalization initiative has 94% of signatures needed to appear on 2024 ballot. Ballotpedia.
- Florida Division of Elections. Initiative Information. Retrieved October 11, 2024, from https://dos.elections.myflorida.com.
- WESH. (2024, July 10). Gov. Ron DeSantis opposes legalizing recreational marijuana despite voter support. WESH. Retrieved October 11, 2024, from https://www.wesh.com.
- Trulieve. (2022, August 9). Recreational Marijuana Initiative Launched. Trulieve. Retrieved October 10, 2024.
- Mazzei, P., & Gold, M. (2024, August 31). Trump Signals Support for Marijuana Legalization in Florida. The New York Times.
- Young, M. (2024, July 17). OPINION Why this sheriff supports Amendment 3. Tallahassee Democrat. Retrieved October 9, 2024, from https://www.tallahassee.com.
- National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws. NORML. Retrieved October 10, 2024, from https://norml.org/marijuana/.
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