The campaign for Florida’s Amendment 3, which seeks to legalize recreational marijuana, has hit a new snag. The amendment is facing opposition from Governor Ron DeSantis, who argues it could lead to uncontrolled marijuana use in public spaces. To counter this, a new campaign ad titled ‘Blowing Smoke’ features Republican Sen. Joe Gruters, a key figure in the legalization push. Gruters, known for his role in banning smoking on public beaches, assures voters that Amendment 3 will not result in unchecked public marijuana use. He emphasizes that public cannabis consumption will be regulated similarly to tobacco.
While the debate over marijuana legalization continues, Governor DeSantis has drawn criticism for his handling of voter registration amidst Hurricane Milton evacuations. He has refused to extend the October 7th voter registration deadline, leading to accusations from civil rights groups that this decision hampers voter registration efforts. Amy Keith, Executive Director of Common Cause Florida, highlights the difficulties of registering to vote during mandatory evacuations. Brad Ashwell from All Voting is Local echoes these concerns, pointing out that many Floridians faced back-to-back hurricanes, further complicating the registration process.
Beyond the political sphere, Hurricane Milton has impacted the cannabis industry in Florida. Companies like Trulieve Cannabis Corp. and Cresco Labs Inc. have been forced to shut down operations to protect their staff and facilities. Trulieve closed 80 stores, while Cresco closed nine dispensaries and a cultivation facility in anticipation of the storm. The hurricane’s impact underscores the challenges faced by the industry as it navigates both regulatory hurdles and natural disasters.
This complex scenario highlights the intertwined nature of politics, social issues, and the business of cannabis in Florida. As the state grapples with the implications of Amendment 3, the ongoing debate over marijuana legalization is further complicated by the urgency of hurricane preparedness. The coming weeks and months will be crucial in determining the future of cannabis in Florida and the broader impact of Governor DeSantis’s decisions.
