John Morgan, CEO of Morgan & Morgan and a prominent marijuana advocate, has criticized Florida Governor Ron DeSantis for his role in defeating a recreational marijuana constitutional amendment in November. Morgan believes that DeSantis’ administration spent $50 million in taxpayer-funded ads opposing the measure, which ultimately received 56% of the vote, falling short of the 60% needed for passage.
Morgan made his comments during a virtual speech at the 2025 Florida Marijuana Policy Conference in Tallahassee, where he also criticized the hemp industry and law enforcement leaders for their opposition to the amendment. He expressed disappointment and frustration with the outcome, but remains optimistic about the future of marijuana legalization in Florida.
Despite the setback, conference attendees and industry leaders are looking ahead, with many believing that the incoming administration of President-elect Donald Trump could ease regulatory burdens on the medical marijuana industry or even allow marijuana to be federally legalized.
The conference also focused on the state’s medical marijuana program, which is expected to expand with the awarding of 22 new licenses. Industry leaders are optimistic about the program’s future, citing its growth and potential for improvement.
However, there are concerns about the proliferation of hemp smoke shops, which have been accused of being improperly regulated and monitored. Governor DeSantis vetoed a bill last year that would have restricted the industry, and lawmakers are expected to revisit the issue during the 2025 legislative session.
