Florida GOP Congressman Matt Gaetz, a longtime supporter of marijuana reform, has announced that he will vote against the state’s marijuana legalization initiative, Amendment 3, despite his previous advocacy for the issue. Gaetz cited concerns that the reform should be enacted statutorily, rather than as a constitutional amendment, which he believes would limit the ability of lawmakers to adjust the law in the future.
Gaetz’s decision comes as a surprise, given his previous support for marijuana reform. He has sponsored legislation to legalize marijuana and has spoken out in favor of the issue. However, he has also expressed concerns about the specific language of the ballot initiative, which he believes could lead to unintended consequences.
Gaetz’s stance is at odds with that of many other Republicans in Florida, who have come out in support of the legalization initiative. The measure has also received support from a number of high-profile figures, including former President Donald Trump, who has indicated that he is open to the idea of legalizing marijuana.
Despite Gaetz’s opposition, the legalization initiative is expected to pass, with a recent poll showing that 64% of voters support the measure. The initiative would allow adults 21 and older to purchase and possess up to three ounces of marijuana for personal use, and would also allow medical cannabis dispensaries to sell marijuana products to adults for personal use.
The legalization initiative has been the subject of much controversy in Florida, with some opponents arguing that it would lead to an increase in youth use and impaired driving. However, supporters of the measure argue that it would be a major step forward for the state’s marijuana laws, and would help to reduce the number of people who are arrested and incarcerated for marijuana-related offenses.
In related news, a recent study found that people with anxiety report better sleep when using marijuana than when using alcohol or abstaining entirely. The study, which was conducted by researchers at the University of Colorado, Colorado State University, and the University of Haifa, found that participants who used marijuana reported better sleep quality than those who used alcohol or abstained from all substances. The study’s findings add to the growing body of evidence that suggests marijuana can have a positive impact on sleep quality.
