Florida: Legislation to repeal ban on smoking medical cannabis has reached Gov. DeSantis’ desk!

On Wednesday, the Florida House of Representatives sent a bill to allow patients to smoke medical cannabis to Gov. Ron DeSantis' desk. In February, Gov. DeSantis called on lawmakers to send him a bill that would repeal the ban, after a court ruling in 2018 deemed the ban unconstitutional. The bill passed the Senate last week by a vote of 38-0.

Repealing the smoking ban will allow patients and their doctors greater access to administer medical cannabis and to decide for themselves which mode of administration is most appropriate for them. The bill will take effect as soon as the governor signs it.

Additionally, the bill allows patients to receive up to 2.5 ounces of whole flower cannabis every 35 days as recommended by their doctor and requires patients under the age of 18 to have a terminal condition and to get a second opinion from a pediatrician before smoking medical cannabis.

Patients and their allies in Florida have fought for years to establish a comprehensive system to create safe access to medical cannabis. Gov. DeSantis signing this much-needed legislation into law will mark a great victory for patients across the Sunshine State.