New cannabis legalization campaign launched in Florida

Florida is renewing its efforts to legalize cannabis for adult use after the failure of Amendment 3 in 2024. The campaign, still led by Smart & Safe Florida, has revised its approach for the 2026 election, with the aim of addressing previous criticisms and securing the 60% majority required for constitutional amendments in the state.

Key Changes in the 2026 Proposal

The new initiative, titled « Adult Personal Use of Marijuana », introduces several changes:

1. Restrictions on public use: The measure explicitly prohibits smoking and vaping cannabis in public spaces. It also mandates that the legislature regulate «the time, place, and manner» of public consumption.
2. Child Protection Measures: To counter allegations that cannabis products appeal to minors, the proposal prohibits marketing and packaging designed to attract children.
3. Expanding Access for Businesses: Unlike Amendment 2024, which, according to its critics, favored medical cannabis dispensaries (MMTC), Measure 2026 extends sales privileges to any «entity authorized to sell marijuana» (Licensed Marijuana Entity). In addition, it eliminates the requirement for new licensees to control all aspects of the cannabis supply chain—a practice known as vertical integration.
4. Potential for growing at home: Although personal cultivation remains illegal under the proposal, the revised text allows state lawmakers to introduce future legislation authorizing home cultivation.
5. Regulatory framework The measure requires the legislature to establish a licensing system for new cannabis businesses, thereby addressing the concerns about a monopoly raised during the last campaign.

Support and Opposition

The 2026 campaign is once again largely funded by industry players, with Trulieve Cannabis Corp. being one of the leading operators, contributing tens of millions of dollars. In 2024, the campaign raised more than $150 million. However, allegations of monopolistic intentions and significant opposition from Governor Ron DeSantis and other conservatives remain obstacles.

Ron DeSantis has already condemned Amendment 3, citing concerns about public consumption and the broader societal impacts of cannabis legalization. Critics, including conservative influencers and organizations such as the Florida Chamber of Commerce have amplified fears about an increase in drunk-driving incidents and the potential rise of a «greedy, for-profit addiction industry.».

Polls on cannabis legalization in Florida have consistently shown majority support, but not always enough to reach the 60% threshold. For example:

• A poll conducted in September 2024 by the Florida Chamber of Commerce revealed support of 59%.
• An Emerson College/The Hill poll conducted in late 2024 showed support of 60%.

Despite these encouraging figures, the 2024 initiative failed, receiving 56% votes. The 2026 campaign aims to build on this foundation by addressing previous criticisms and mobilizing broader support across political divides.