Florida elections are almost here!

Florida is one of only 19 states that still jails people for possession of small amounts of cannabis. It is undecided as to what will happen to the state’s large consumable hemp market when federal regulations change in December 2026. 

Possession of even a single joint (and up to 20 grams) remains a first-degree misdemeanor offense, punishable with up to one year in jail, a fine of up to $1000, and an automatic suspension of your driver's license for six months — even though more than half of Americans live in legalization states. Last year, Florida arrested 6,104 individuals for possession (many municipalities do not report arrest data to the FBI, and hemp flower is allowed under current regulations).

This Fall, voters will have an opportunity to decide who represents them in the state capitol. While MPP did not have the bandwidth to survey candidates for the state legislature, we were able to highlight the two top-polling gubernatorial candidates' policy stances on cannabis. David Jolly (D) has stated that even though he voted against legalization in 2024, since a majority voted in favor of legalizing, the state should honor the voters’ wishes. Rep. Byron Donalds (R), despite having a marijuana conviction from his youth, has repeatedly stated he opposes the legalization of cannabis and loosening cannabis penalties in general. However, he has stated he supports the medical cannabis program. 

Voters are eager for reform: A recent poll shows 66% of Floridians support full legalization. While the current legislature has stymied almost all cannabis policy reforms, having a governor who supports reform should help move Florida forward. Also, three potential ballot initiatives are in the process that would put cannabis legalization to voters in 2028.