Florida Marijuana Legalization Campaign Joins Legal Challenge Against New Ballot Initiative Restrictions

The group behind Florida’s 2024 recreational marijuana legalization effort, Smart & Safe Florida, has joined a federal lawsuit challenging a new state law that imposes stricter requirements on citizen-led ballot initiatives. The law, enacted by Florida lawmakers, is seen by critics as a move to hinder grassroots campaigns, particularly those aiming to legalize marijuana.

In the 2024 election, Amendment 3 sought to legalize recreational marijuana for adults aged 21 and over in Florida. Despite garnering 56% of the vote, it failed to meet the 60% supermajority required for constitutional amendments in the state.

Following this, Smart & Safe Florida initiated efforts to place a revised measure on the 2026 ballot. However, the new law’s stringent requirements—such as increased signature thresholds and tighter deadlines—pose significant challenges to this endeavor.

The lawsuit argues that the new law infringes upon Floridians’ constitutional rights by making it excessively difficult to propose and vote on amendments. By joining this legal action, Smart & Safe Florida aims to protect the initiative process and ensure that citizens retain the ability to effect change through direct democracy.

The debate over marijuana legalization in Florida has garnered national attention, with prominent political figures taking sides. Former President Donald Trump expressed support for Amendment 3, highlighting its potential to reduce unnecessary arrests and advocating for reclassifying marijuana under federal law. Conversely, Governor Ron DeSantis opposed the measure, warning that it could lead to widespread public use and likening it to creating a “drug cartel” backed by the state constitution.