Florida weed laws have undergone significant changes in recent years, creating an evolving landscape. These changes reflect broader societal shifts and open conversations about marijuana use for both medical and recreational purposes. Florida, as a state, has walked its path towards these changes, and our understanding of these regulations are equally crucial.
Marijuana, colloquially known as weed, split into two primary categories: medical marijuana and non-medicinal marijuana. The legalization and regulation of both types of marijuana vary greatly across states. In Florida, the laws surrounding both these forms differ considerably.
Medical Marijuana
In 2014, Florida made its first step towards legalizing medical marijuana. Governor Rick Scott signed Senate Bill 1030, which allowed limited prescriptions to critically ill patients. In 2016, through Amendment 2, Florida expanded the range of conditions for which marijuana could be prescribed demonstrably, increasing the legality and accessibility of medical marijuana across the state.
Patient access to medical marijuana requires a pre-existing condition diagnosable by a licensed physician. After a robust evaluation, if the physician prescribes medical marijuana, the patient needs to apply for a Medical Marijuana Use Registry Identification Card with the Department of Health. This card grants legal access to medical marijuana, including cbd oils.
Non-Medicinal or Recreational Marijuana
It’s important to note that despite the regulation of medical marijuana, non-medicinal marijuana remains illegal in the state. Florida weed laws categorize it as a Schedule I controlled substance, the same category as LSD and heroin. Possession, selling, and cultivation of non-medicinal marijuana could lead to criminal charges. The gravity of the penalties differs based on the amount of marijuana in possession, with anything over 20 grams deemed as a felony.
What About CBD?
Discussions about Florida weed laws wouldn’t be complete without exploring the domain of cbd oils. CBD, a non-psychoactive derived from cannabis, falls under different regulations than marijuana due to its non-intoxicating nature. In 2018, the U.S. federal government removed hemp-derived CBD from its Schedule I Classification, effectively legalizing it at the federal level.
The state of Florida, in line with federal law, acknowledges that CBD products containing less than 0.3% THC concentration are legal to purchase and consume without a medical prescription. That includes cbd oils. The products sold must undergo third-party testing to ensure they meet the required THC concentration limit, and they must be properly labeled with the amount of THC they contain.
Future of Weed Laws in Florida
While medical marijuana and CBD have been legally accommodated in the state, recreational marijuana still remains prohibited under Florida weed laws. However, there is an ongoing debate about whether to fully legalize marijuana for both medical and recreational purposes. The future could bring more changes to the marijuana laws in Florida, potentially adapting in response to societal shifts regarding the acceptance and use of marijuana.
In any instance, individuals should keep abreast with the current Florida weed laws as they apply to them personally and understand the regulations surrounding marijuana use. Legal consequences surrounding marijuana use can be severe, and ignorance of the law cannot be used as an excuse. Consult a professional if uncertain of the current laws and how they impact personal use.