Many eyes are watching Florida this year as it takes its second attempt at establishing a workable medical marijuana program. Advocates tried and narrowly failed to pass a constitutional amendment in 2014, and they are at it again for the 2016 general election.
Florida’s Amendment 2 would legalize cannabis treatment for patients suffering from the following conditions: cancer; epilepsy; glaucoma; HIV/AID; post-traumatic stress disorder; ALS; Crohn’s disease; Parkinson’s disease; multiple sclerosis; “or other debilitating medical conditions of the same kind or class.” In order to succeed, the amendment must receive 60% or more of the popular vote — which was why the state’s 2014 amendment attempt ultimately failed, though it had majority support.
This year, Florida advocates have witnessed massive campaign contributions both in support and against their efforts.
If you’re interested in live updates on Florida’s medical marijuana progress tonight, check back to this article: we will be making notes as the results come rolling in.
Update 8:43 pm EST – The Associated Press and local Fox 13 reports Amendment 2 has passed 71 percent to 29 percent. The initiative required 60 percent support to pass.
Update 4:55 pm PST – Politico is beginning to tally the votes for Florida’s medical cannabis vote. With only 7 percent of the vote currently counted, Amendment 2 is boasting major support among Florida voters: 68.6 percent in favor and 31.4 percent against.
Amendment 2, “Use of Marijuana for Debilitating Conditions”
The Department of Health would be tasked in rolling out much of the program details, which need to be in place 6 months if the measure is passed by voters.
The amendment text permits Medical Marijuana Treatment Centers and caregivers, but it does not lay out any of the details included in other ballot initiatives, such as fees, taxes, possession limits and revenue disbursement.
VIDEO: Overview of Cannabis Initiatives
Below is a brief overview of all the different state-level cannabis initiatives on the ballot this election cycle. With nine total states voting on expanding access to cannabis, this year presents an unprecedented opportunity for legalization advocates and medical cannabis patients.
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