2024 Cannabis Ballot Initiatives
As Americans prepare to vote this November, the spotlight will be on the presidential election. However, many states will also feature various ballot initiatives covering issues such as health and wellness, gambling, hunting, and cannabis legalization.
Currently, 38 states have legalized medical cannabis use, and 24 have legalized recreational use. This means 74% of Americans reside in states where some form of cannabis use is legal. This year, Florida, North Dakota, and South Dakota are considering new measures to legalize cannabis, each with unique challenges and progress.
Florida
Florida's Amendment 3, which aims to legalize recreational marijuana, appears likely to pass in the November general election, according to recent polls. The Florida Politics Poll (June 26-29) showed 64% support among 1,065 likely voters, while the Fox News Poll (June 1-4) reported 66% support among 1,075 registered voters. This growing support indicates a positive trend toward legalization.
Amendment 3 would legalize the possession and purchase of up to 3 ounces of marijuana, and up to 5 grams of cannabis concentrates for adults 21 and older. Existing medical marijuana licensees would be permitted to produce and sell cannabis products, with state regulation allowing potential new market entrants. If passed, the amendment would take effect six months after election day.
Despite the increasing support, Governor Ron DeSantis opposes Amendment 3, citing concerns about its broadness and potential negative impact on the state's quality of life. He references Colorado's experience with legalization as a cautionary tale.
Ken Griffin, a major supporter of Governor DeSantis, has donated $12 million to oppose Amendment 3. The "Vote No on 3" campaign, backed by DeSantis and managed by his close allies, argues that the amendment is deceptive and would lead to increased public marijuana use, addiction risks, and crime. In contrast, Smart & Safe Florida, the group sponsoring the amendment, has raised over $66 million, mainly from Trulieve, a licensed marijuana dispensary.
On Sunday, 9/9/24, Trump spoke out on his site Truth Social in support of cannabis reform, both in Florida and on the federal legal. He wrote: “As President, we will continue to focus on research to unlock the medical uses of marijuana to a Schedule 3 drug and work with Congress to pass common-sense laws, including safe banking for state-authorized companies, and supporting states rights to pass marijuana laws, like in Florida, that work so well for their citizens.”
Our next blog will focus on rescheduling initiatives and the impacts of the presidential election on the cannabis industry. With Florida’s cannabis amendment on the ballot and the governor’s implied veto right over the amendment, this thrust of support from the Republican party’s nominee is at least hopeful.
North Dakota
For the third time since 2018, North Dakota voters will be tasked with voting on legalizing recreational cannabis use in the state.
“A big part of this is the educational piece,” Steve Bakken, chairman of the sponsoring committee, said. “Getting the public, elected officials and everyone educated on the real measure and the real ramifications are, that’s where the lift starts.”
The recreational marijuana measure in North Dakota is described as more conservative than previous attempts to fit into the state's culture. Supporters emphasize that it is not overly permissive, with strict limits on the amount of cannabis individuals can possess and grow.
Law enforcement groups in North Dakota, which previously opposed similar measures, have not yet taken a position. However, some officers remain opposed, citing concerns about increased crime and drug trafficking. Opponents, including the Brighter Future Alliance and some medical professionals, argue that legalizing marijuana could have adverse effects on public health and safety, referencing past failed attempts to pass similar measures in the state.
South Dakota
Advocates for legalizing recreational marijuana in South Dakota have submitted around 29,000 signatures to get the issue on the November ballot, needing 17,508 valid signatures for qualification. The state's journey with marijuana legalization has been tumultuous. In 2020, voters approved a measure to legalize recreational marijuana, but the state Supreme Court struck it down. A 2022 attempt also failed.
Matthew Schweich, Director of South Dakotans for Better Marijuana Laws Campaign, highlighted reasons to support the measure, such as redirecting law enforcement resources, increasing access for those struggling to obtain medical marijuana, and generating new tax revenue and jobs. He argued that if alcohol is legal, it makes no sense to punish people for using cannabis, which he believes is less harmful.
However, opposition remains strong, with Protecting South Dakota Kids arguing that legalization would lead to higher crime rates, increased suicide rates, traffic fatalities, workplace injuries, and mental health problems. If the measure passes, supporters plan to work with the Legislature to establish comprehensive regulatory frameworks.
Conclusion
In conclusion, as states like Florida, North Dakota, and South Dakota navigate the complex path to cannabis legalization, the outcomes of these initiatives could significantly impact state policies and reflect broader national trends. Moreover, evidenced by both Trump's and Harris’ commentary in support of broader cannabis reform, the federal landscape surrounding cannabis seems to be accelerating. The cannabis industry is maturing in front of our eyes, yet the general public is overlooking the opportunity.
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