Is Weed Legal in Florida?

Medical Cannabis Program

The medical cannabis program in Florida was established following the passage of Amendment 2 in November 2016. This amendment expanded the state's existing medical cannabis laws, allowing for a broader range of qualifying conditions and increasing access for patients. The program is regulated by the Florida Department of Health's Office of Medical Marijuana Use (OMMU).

Qualifying Conditions

• Patients may qualify for medical cannabis if they have been diagnosed with specific medical conditions, including:
• Cancer
• Epilepsy
• Glaucoma
• HIV/AIDS
• Parkinson's disease
• Multiple sclerosis
• Chronic pain
• PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder)
• ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis)
• Crohn's disease
• Terminal illness
• Other debilitating medical conditions as determined by a qualified physician

How to Get a Medical Card

1. See a licensed physician who is registered with the Florida Department of Health and has completed the required training.
2. Apply to the state registry by submitting the application online through the OMMU website.
3. Pay an application fee, which is typically around $75.
4. Receive the medical marijuana use registry identification card, which usually takes about 10 to 14 days after the application is approved.

Card Validity & Renewal

Medical cannabis cards in Florida are valid for a period of 210 days (approximately 7 months). Patients must undergo a renewal process that includes a follow-up evaluation by a licensed physician. The renewal application fee is also around $75, and patients are encouraged to start the renewal process at least 45 days before their card expires to avoid any lapse in access.

Purchase & Possession Limits

Medical cannabis patients in Florida are allowed to purchase up to 2.5 ounces (approximately 70.9 grams) of smokable cannabis every 35 days. Additionally, patients can possess up to 4 ounces (approximately 113.4 grams) of smokable cannabis at any given time. For non-smokable forms, patients can generally possess a sufficient supply as determined by their physician, but it is advisable to stay within reasonable limits to avoid legal issues.

Allowed Forms

Florida's medical cannabis program permits various forms of cannabis products, including:

• Smokable flower
• Concentrates (such as oils and waxes)
• Edibles (though these are less common)
• Topicals (creams, lotions, etc.)
• Capsules
• Vape products

Where to Buy

Medical cannabis can be purchased at licensed medical marijuana treatment centers (MMTCs) throughout Florida. As of now, there are approximately 400 licensed dispensaries across the state. Patients can locate dispensaries through the OMMU website or by using various online resources that provide maps and lists of nearby MMTCs.

Recreational Status

Recreational use of cannabis remains illegal in Florida. Possession of cannabis without a medical card can lead to criminal penalties, including fines and potential jail time. The penalties for possession of 20 grams or less can include a misdemeanor charge, with fines up to $1,000 and up to one year in jail. Possession of larger amounts can result in felony charges.

Future Outlook

As of October 2023, there are ongoing discussions and potential ballot measures regarding the legalization of recreational cannabis in Florida. Advocacy groups are actively working to gather support for future initiatives, but no definitive legislation has been passed yet. The landscape of cannabis law in Florida may evolve in the coming years as public opinion shifts and more states move towards legalization.