TAMPA, Fla. — In Florida, where medical marijuana is already sanctioned, a forthcoming election could broaden access to marijuana, permitting individuals over 21 to procure up to three ounces from dispensaries.
The Florida Supreme Court sanctioned the inclusion of a proposition to legalize marijuana in the upcoming November ballot on April 1st.
With approval, Florida would align with 24 other states in legalizing marijuana.
Luke Niforatos, a Colorado native and critic of legalization, voices concerns over the potential increase in drug use and addiction amidst the opioid crisis, suggesting these are outcomes Florida might want to avoid.
Conversely, Dr. Martha Rosenthal of Florida Gulf Coast University heralds the initiative as a significant and exciting development, highlighting the shift in national sentiment towards marijuana legalization.
The contrasting viewpoints are set to converge at the election, requiring a 60% affirmative vote to enact the change.
Passage would enable medical marijuana centers and other licensed entities to cultivate, process, and retail marijuana without necessitating a medical card.
Niforatos represents Smart Approaches to Marijuana, an organization that contests marijuana proliferation, emphasizing concerns over its impact on youth and traffic safety due to its potency.
He warns against products with THC concentrations as high as 99%, a stark contrast to the 3% seen in the past, targeting young audiences with appealing forms like gummy bears and candies.
Dr. Rosenthal, however, believes legalization can enhance safety, pointing out the risks of unregulated purchases. Without legal avenues, consumers may unknowingly acquire products laced with harmful substances like fentanyl.
As the Director of the Cannabis Research, Education, and Workforce Initiative (CREW) at FGCU, Rosenthal advocates for the educational component of legalization to promote informed and safer consumption practices.
Rosenthal challenges the stigma against marijuana, arguing for the necessity of education in mitigating misconceptions and promoting a balanced understanding of its use.
Should the measure pass, state legislators will determine the specifics of regulation.
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