Florida Amendment 3: Florida's Marijuana Legalization Looks to Embrace Expanded Freedom and Reform
Unlocking economic potential while advancing personal liberty and justice. #LegalizeItFL
Florida voters will be voting on another constitutional amendment to the Florida Constitution ths coming November regarding whether to legalize a plant to use as one may, namely cannabis/marijuana with Amendment 3. Essentially, if Florida voters choose to approve the amendment, it would allow adults 21 years or older to possess, purchase, or use marijuana products and marijuana accessories for non-medical personal consumption by smoking, ingestion, or otherwise; it would allow Medical Marijuana Treatment Centers, and other state licensed entities, to acquire, cultivate, process, manufacture, sell, and distribute such products and accessories. It also establishes possession limits for personal use.
The argument before voters is to legalize the recreational use of marijuana for adults aged 21 and older. Proponents argue that this is a step toward respecting our individual freedom by, reducing unnecessary government intervention and addresses the failures of our failed war on drugs.
1. Personal Freedom: Proponents emphasize that adults have the right to make their own choices regarding their bodies and personal habits. Just as individuals can choose to consume alcohol or tobacco legally (with minimal restrictions), they should have the freedom to use marijuana without fear of legal repercussions. By legalizing marijuana, Florida would align its policies with the principle of at least some personal liberty, allowing individuals to exercise more autonomy over their own lives. I feel one should be able to grow a marijuana plant(s) on their property without being in fear of being put in a cage by our government, yet this amendment does not go that far..
2. Economic Opportunity: Legalizing marijuana presents significant economic opportunities for Florida. Proponents argue that it would create jobs in cultivation, processing, distribution, and retail, contributing to economic growth and providing new avenues for entrepreneurship. Tax revenues generated from the legal marijuana market could be used to fund essential public services or initiatives, benefiting the state and its residents. While I do not believe marijuana should be taxed at all, it is a reality that the State and this amendment insist on such.Â
3. Criminal Justice Reform: The current prohibition of marijuana has disproportionately impacted marginalized communities, leading to over-incarceration and perpetuating social inequalities. By legalizing marijuana, Florida can take a significant step towards criminal justice reform, reducing the number of non-violent drug offenders in the criminal justice system and reallocating resources towards more pressing law enforcement priorities.
4. Public Health and Safety: Proponents argue that legalizing marijuana would enhance public health and safety by implementing regulations and quality controls on the production and distribution of cannabis products. With legalization, consumers would have access to safer products, reducing the risks associated with unregulated black market transactions. Additionally, resources currently spent on enforcing marijuana prohibition could be redirected toward public health initiatives and education programs aimed at promoting responsible cannabis use.
5. Individual Rights vs. Government Control: Proponents argue that adults should be trusted to make informed decisions about marijuana use, just as they do with other legal substances. By legalizing and regulating marijuana, the government acknowledges that individuals have the right to make choices that may not align with societal norms but do not harm others.
While I do not feel this amendment goes far enough for true freedom on this issue, advocates for the amendment, see this as a means of promoting personal liberty, economic opportunity, criminal justice reform, public health, and individual rights. They argue that by legalizing marijuana, Florida can embrace a more rational and equitable approach to drug policy, while simultaneously respecting the rights and choices of its citizens.
I will likely vote FOR this amendment, only because it will enable fewer people to be arrested and put in a cage for doing nothing more than using a plant. Yet, there are aspects to this proposed amendment I do not agree with and as stated, it does not go far enough in respecting the rights of the individual.