Florida adult-use marijuana will appear on ballot, court rules

(This is a developing story, so please check back for updates.)

Florida is poised to become the next state to legalize adult-use marijuana.

The state Supreme Court ruled Monday afternoon that an industry-funded ballot initiative will appear on state voters’ November ballots.

Attorneys for state Attorney General Ashley Moody had argued the Smart & Safe Florida initiative was misleading to voters.

They also argued that it would unfairly entrench the market dominance of Tallahassee-based marijuana multistate operator Trulieve Cannabis, which to date has contributed more than $40 million toward the effort.

But in a 5-2 decision, the Florida Supreme Court ruled that the measure indeed “conforms” to state constitutional requirements.

“In light of those limited considerations, we approve the proposed amendment for placement on the ballot,” the justices wrote.

If passed, Amendment 3 would allow adult-use cannabis sales to Floridians 21 and older at existing medical marijuana treatment centers.

The Florida Legislature would have the authority to later pass laws allowing other businesses to enter the adult-use market.

Chris Roberts can be reached at chris.roberts@mjbizdaily.com.