Last updated : December 16, 2024
Floridians who hope Amendment 3 passes legalizing recreational marijuana will soon learn how many people marked their ballots with “yes” on November 5th. The measure must receive at least 60% of the vote to pass. If it does, adults over the age of 21 will be able to purchase and possess up to three ounces of marijuana and up to five grams of cannabis concentrate for personal use.
The questions to be answered afterward will likely be “when” and “where.”
When can consumers expect sales to begin?
If Amendment 3 passes next week, consumers can’t immediately run to the dispensaries. The legislators are given a time frame in which to structure “limitations.” These could include prohibiting smoking the drug in public, for instance.
In addition to regulating use, lawmakers will decide on potency limits, marketing rules, and address any other concerns that arise during the process. Subsequently, consumers won’t be able to purchase marijuana or marijuana products for personal use until May 2025.
Where do they go?
Marijuana won’t be available at the corner quick store or in chain store establishments. Consumers will need to go to a medical marijuana treatment center to make their purchases. The state is authorizing them to sell to the public for recreational use.
The Florida State Legislature also plans to provide licenses to other businesses to cultivate and sell marijuana and its by-products. Money is a strong motivator and there is certainly money to be made in the marijuana industry. Odds are that some licenses will be handed out in time for businesses to open their doors by May 2025 as well.
Meeting increased demand
There is a portion of the population that believes marijuana is nothing more than a “gateway drug.” This means users go on to use more harmful and addictive drugs once the effects of marijuana fail to satisfy them any longer. However, over the past few decades, especially, more and more people believe marijuana use is a harmless pastime.
There are currently 22 companies licensed to grow and distribute medical marijuana in Florida. Industry leaders predict that the number is likely to at least double after the first year to keep up with demand.
According to a report from the Florida Financial Impact Estimating Conference, held in July 2023, estimated recreational marijuana tax revenue could fall somewhere between $195 million and $430 million per year. That’s a pretty big spread. Some business owners will undoubtedly push to get a piece of that pie on their plates as soon as possible.
Why do people smoke pot?
Recreational marijuana use is for the individual’s enjoyment rather than health benefits. However, some experts say that recreational marijuana use can improve mental health, has a calming effect on the mind, and is an effective substitute for alcohol.
The world is a little chaotic right now. Smoking marijuana—or using other forms—creates a sense of euphoria and well-being. Lots of people use pot when they are relaxing at home. It provides a bit of escape from the many stresses of life.
On November 5, Floridians decide if they will be among them.
