When it comes to establishing new laws, the wording is important to get right. That way advocates get these initiatives on ballots in front of voters. If the Florida Supreme Court chooses to reject an initiative based on its language, that may result in a lot of hard work lost over pushing a vague initiative.
Marijuana advocates, according to Marijuana Moment, ran into this issue earlier this year but are back at it for another try with sharper language.
The Supreme Court shutdown
Many justices felt a particular marijuana initiative was misleading since it claimed adult-use cannabis would be lawful without explicitly acknowledging that federal laws would remain unchanged. Another piece of language concerned the limited use of marijuana.
The new marijuana initiative
With enough signatures, the new initiative aims to legalize recreational use and possession of cannabis. Adults 21 and older could grow up to nine plants for personal use. Notably, the initiative does not aim to provide for retail sales.
Advocates seek to have this initiative on ballots by 2022.
The current marijuana laws
It is important for anyone following these prospective law changes to keep in mind Florida’s current laws and penalties. Possession of under 20 grams is a 1st-degree misdemeanor with up to 1 year in jail — over 20 grams, up to 25 lbs, may result in up to 5 years in jail. Possessing in excess of 25 lbs is a 1st-degree felony.
These criminal charges affect anyone’s life in deep ways that last for years after serving any sentence. Contacting an attorney is an urgent priority for anyone facing these charges.
