Florida Poll Reveals Strong Backing for Cannabis Legalization

A new poll shows that the marijuana legalization measure on Florida’s November ballot has strong support from voters. Supporters are increasing their efforts with new radio ads to ensure the measure passes.

Poll Results Indicate Strong Support for Cannabis Legalization

The recent survey, reported by Florida Politics, shows that over 64 percent of likely voters in Florida support Amendment 3, which would legalize marijuana. To pass, the measure needs at least 60 percent of the votes. The poll, conducted from June 26 to June 29 with 1,065 respondents, has a margin of error of +/-2.9 percentage points. However, the organization behind the poll was not disclosed.

Youth Support and Campaign Response

According to the poll, 100 percent of voters aged 18-29 support the cannabis legalization initiative. Smart and Safe Florida, the campaign behind the measure, clarified that they were not responsible for the poll but welcomed the positive results.

Mixed Survey Results in Recent Months

The latest poll offers hope for legalization supporters, who have seen mixed survey results in recent months. An April USA Today/Ipsos poll showed 56 percent support among registered voters, while a Florida Atlantic University (FAU) poll found only 47 percent backing. Another survey in May indicated 58 percent support, and a June poll reported 66 percent approval.

Campaign Efforts and New Ads

Smart and Safe Florida recently released two new ads featuring personal injury attorney John Morgan, a supporter of the state’s medical marijuana law. The ads, tied to Independence Day and Florida’s Freedom Month in July, emphasize the need to end criminal penalties for marijuana possession.

In one ad, Morgan says, “Now it’s time for us to declare our independence from laws that demand jail time for simply having or consuming marijuana.” In another ad, he calls for an end to jailing people for marijuana use, saying it’s less harmful than alcohol or opioids.

Governor and Political Opposition

Governor Ron DeSantis has been vocal against the cannabis measure, recently launching a political action committee to oppose it. Despite his efforts, including claims that legalization would harm the state’s quality of life, the committee has raised only $10,000, compared to over $60 million raised by the legalization campaign.

Economic Impact Projections

Analysts estimate that legalizing marijuana could generate between $195.6 million and $431.3 million in new sales tax revenue annually for Florida. These figures could rise significantly if lawmakers impose an additional excise tax on cannabis sales.

Campaign and Legislative Support

Smart and Safe Florida continues to gather support, including forming a coalition of veterans to advocate for the measure. U.S. Rep. Brian Mast believes Florida voters will approve the legalization initiative, despite the governor’s stance.

What Amendment 3 Entails

If passed, Amendment 3 would allow adults 21 and older to purchase and possess up to three ounces of cannabis for personal use. Medical cannabis dispensaries would be authorized to sell marijuana products to adults. The measure also specifies that it does not change federal law and provides guidelines for consistent legislation.

With strong poll results and ongoing campaign efforts, the marijuana legalization measure in Florida is poised for a significant vote in November. As advocates continue to push for reform, the state moves closer to potentially joining the growing list of states with legalized cannabis.