Understanding Cannabis Laws in Florida: Where We Stand in 2025

The conversation around Florida cannabis laws continues to evolve. While the Sunshine State has made progress on medical access, recreational cannabis in Florida remains illegal — but that hasn’t stopped activists, patients, and local governments from pushing for smarter, more compassionate drug policy reform.

Recreational Cannabis Still Illegal in Florida

Under current state law, cannabis for recreational use is illegal in Florida. Possessing up to 20 grams of marijuana is a misdemeanor offense, punishable by up to one year in jail, fines up to $1,000, and even the suspension of your driver’s license. Several cities and counties have adopted local cannabis reforms that reduce penalties or offer civil citations for low-level possession, but full legalization has not yet happened statewide.

Medical Marijuana Legalized in 2016

A major milestone in Florida cannabis history came in 2016, when voters overwhelmingly approved Amendment 2, making medical marijuana legal in Florida with a doctor’s recommendation. The amendment passed with around 71% support, reflecting broad public backing for patient access. Under this law, qualified patients can use cannabis to treat a wide range of debilitating conditions, from cancer and epilepsy to chronic pain and PTSD.

Since then, Florida’s medical cannabis program has expanded to include multiple forms of cannabis products — not just CBD oil, which had been legalized earlier in 2014. Smoking, vaping, edibles, tinctures, and other consumption methods are now permitted under state regulations.

Recent Efforts to Legalize Recreational Cannabis

Efforts to bring adult-use cannabis legalization to Florida have continued. In 2024, Florida voters weighed in on Amendment 3, a proposed constitutional change that would have legalized recreational marijuana for adults 21 and older. Although the measure earned a majority of support — about 56% of voters approved it — it failed to reach the 60% supermajority required for constitutional amendments in Florida.

This was a historic moment in Florida cannabis reform: it showed growing public support for ending prohibition, even if legal change fell short this election cycle.

Local Decriminalization and Cannabis Reform

Across Florida, several municipal cannabis reforms have taken effect. Cities like Tampa, Orlando, Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach counties have adopted civil citation programs or reduced penalties for small amounts of marijuana. These local moves signal grassroots pressure for broader reform and reflect shifting attitudes toward cannabis enforcement.

Where We Go From Here

Florida cannabis policy remains at a crossroads. With medical marijuana well-established and public support for recreational cannabis reform growing, many advocates see the 2024 ballot initiative as only the beginning. Continued organizing, education, and legislative engagement will be key to future progress toward marijuana legalization in Florida.

Stay tuned to Suncoast NORML for updates on cannabis reform efforts, ballot campaigns, and how Florida’s cannabis policy impacts patients, consumers, and communities across the Suncoast.