TALLAHASSEE, FL (WTXL) - Voters will once again be able to decide whether to legalize medical marijuana during the November 8th election.
Amendment 2 on the 2016 ballot would allow pot usage by a wide range of patients. Two years ago, a majority of citizens voted to approve a similar constitutional amendment, but the ballot initiative narrowly failed to reach the 60 percent approval.
Proponents of the bill said that the wording on the ballot of this year's amendment is stricter than it was in 2014, They also said that more medicinal options are needed for sick Floridians.
United for Care spokesman Reggie Garcia said the amendment is necessary because the legislature is not acting fast enough on the issue.
"In our judgment, the legislature didn't go far enough. That's why they'll see Amendment Two on their ballot, to amend the Constitution. Frankly, it's just that much more permanent," said Garcia.
However, opposition to amendment two has come on several fronts.
"We are certainly moved with compassion for those who are sick and suffering. We have given a lot of thought to that, as we look at Amendment Two. At the same time, we do have concerns for how the amendment would affect our broader society and the state of Florida," said Micheal Sheedy, executive director at the Florida Conference of Catholic Bishops.
A poll released this week by the Florida Chamber of Commerce showed that more than 70 percent of voters supported amendment 2.
25 other states have already legalized medical marijuana and the issue is also on the ballot in two other states this year.
