Off The Grid: Marijuana Advocates Campaigning to Legalize Pot in Florida

Advocates are pushing for legalization of marijuana on the 2016 ballot. The Florida Cannabis Act would regulate marijuana the same as alcohol is regulated.

Recreational marijuana advocates are pushing for an initiative on the 2016 ballot that would grant Florida residents the right to vote on legalizing pot.

The Florida Cannabis Act would allow anyone 21 and older to purchase and possess up to one ounce of marijuana. Adults could also grow up to six cannabis plants in their homes.

After Florida division of elections gave authorization, the organizations “Sensible Florida” and “Regulate Florida” began collecting signatures for a proposed amendment.

Attorney Michael Minardi who is behind the team vying for signatures, told New York Times:

“It doesn’t allow for driving while on cannabis; it limits the age to 21 -- much like the way alcohol is sold and regulated. Whenever any kind of product is regulated, it makes sure people are getting a safe product.”

Previous efforts in Florida did not pan out well. Voters struck down a medical marijuana initiative in 2014— amendment drew support from 57 percent of voters, but needed 60 percent to pass.

Written by

Kanika Lal

Kanika Lal moved to Los Angeles to pursue her career as a host, writer, and producer. She currently works for Ora TV’s NewsBreaker where she constantly keeps up with the latest stories, writes, and broadcasts them from Ora studios. Kanika began her love for journalism at The Hollywood Reporter as a digital news producer and red carpet correspondent. She had the honor of interviewing Anderson Cooper, John Mayer, Cate Blanchett, and covered the 71st Annual Golden Globes. After a rewarding and solid year, she then took her skills a step closer to her passion: hosting. You can catch her recapping television shows under Maria Menounos’ AfterBuzz TV as well as hosting and producing a Bollywood show for Menounos’ Popcorn Talk network. Kanika thrives on self-expression, and she achieves that through Indian classical and contemporary dance as well as hip-hop. She also has small but growing acting credits under her name, as she strives to branch out creatively. Kanika thrives on discovering hidden stories and engaging with a variety of people. She hopes to have an influence in the world of arts, pop culture, politics, and science.

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