Marijuana laws are constantly in flux across the country as voters weigh in on new initiatives and lawmakers introduce new legislation. Sometimes it can be difficult to keep track of what is legal where. Here’s what you need to know about Florida marijuana laws in 2021.
Medical Marijuana Laws in Florida
Florida permits medical marijuana recommended by a licensed physician for qualifying medical conditions. MMJ legislation has existed here in some capacity since 2014.
That was when Florida Legislature first passed the Compassionate Medical Cannabis Act. It allowed a limited group of patients with epilepsy or cancer to use low-THC cannabis.
Fast forward to November 2016, when Florida voters approved Amendment 2. It granted broader legalization of medical cannabis and increased the list of qualifying medical conditions.
In 2019, the legislature enacted SB 182. It repealed an earlier ban on smoking medical marijuana.
The Florida Department of Health released production standards for THC-infused cannabis edibles in August 2020. MMJ cardholders gained access to gelatins, chocolates, baked goods, and other various forms of edibles as a result.
There haven’t been any significant changes to Florida MMJ laws in 2021 that would affect patients.
Recreational Marijuana Laws in Florida
Recreational marijuana sales, possession, and use remain illegal in Florida. However, that may change soon due to a new push for legalization.
Orlando Rep. Carlos Guillermo Smith and Pinellas County Sen. Jeff Brandes recently introduced bills that would legalize adult-use marijuana in Florida. Those bills would permit people 21 and older to purchase and use specified amounts of marijuana without an MMJ card.
HB 343 and SB 710 were both filed in January of this year. It is currently unclear if they will become law. Similar proposals have been introduced in the past without success.
Stay Up to Date. Ask AMRX!
We know marijuana legislation inside and out. It’s part of our job. If you have any questions about Florida MMJ laws, don’t hesitate to ask our state-licensed physician.
Call 727-209-5470 to schedule an initial medical evaluation with Florida Board of Health-certified physician Dr. Lora L. Brown. Access Marijuana RX serves Tampa, St. Petersburg, and nearby areas of Florida.