Florida Voters Weigh In on Recreational Marijuana Amendment
As Floridians head to the polls, one of the most contentious issues on the ballot is Amendment 3, which seeks to legalize recreational marijuana. The amendment has sparked intense debate, with proponents arguing that it would be safer and more regulated than the current black market, while opponents claim that it would lead to increased use and abuse.
At the Apopka Civic Center, voters waited in line for hours to cast their ballots, with many expressing their support for the amendment. “I don’t think it’s the government’s job to regulate what people do in their own homes,” said Jason Harris. “It’s their right and their choice.”
Others, however, were more skeptical. “I’m not sure I trust lawmakers to regulate marijuana,” said Rod Brewer. “When you open up a can of worms, you get a lot of worms around.”
The amendment has been the subject of a heated campaign, with both sides spending millions of dollars on advertising and messaging. The pro-amendment campaign, Smart and Safe Florida, has released a series of ads emphasizing the safety and regulation of legalized marijuana. Meanwhile, the DeSantis administration has used public funds to fund anti-marijuana ads, sparking controversy.
If the amendment passes, lawmakers will still need to pass a law in the spring to establish guidelines for recreational marijuana. Despite the uncertainty, many voters are eager to make their voices heard. “I’m still undecided,” said Joan Boyd, “but I think it’s an important issue.”
As the vote approaches, WESH 2 News has reached out to the governor’s office for a statement on the use of public funds to fund anti-marijuana ads. We will update our report when we receive a response.
