Over 70% of Floridians want expanded marijuana options in the state
Florida is one of those states that has only implemented a medical cannabis program. While this market has been operating remarkably well over the past few years, a large number of residents would expect to see an expansion into recreational cannabis. This was made clear by a new poll showing that seven out of ten voters agree with reform.
Florida has become an ideal destination for operators focused on medical cannabis. However, many advocates are looking to go further, waging a funded campaign to get a marijuana legalization initiative on the state’s 2024 ballot.
As this occurs, the University of North Florida’s (UNF) Public Opinion Research Lab (PORL) was curious to see what the people think about it. Through a survey, the entity found that 70% of those polled support the idea of passing a constitutional amendment for legalization to be enacted. Just under 30% said they are strongly opposed or remain somewhat undecided on the issue.
Support does not appear to depend on the respondent’s political party, with Democrats and Republicans supporting the measure by 75% and 57%, respectively. Those with no party affiliation totaled 68% in favor, noting that bipartisan support is quite strong in the Sunshine State. The same was true across all age demographics, with youth and adults overwhelmingly supporting the proposal to support reform.
Michael Binder, a professor of political science at UNF and faculty director of PORL, said in a press release, “Efforts to put recreational marijuana in front of voters in 2024 are in the early stages, but support is high across the political spectrum. If it makes the ballot next year, and that’s a big ‘if,’ it has a good chance of reaching the 60 percent qualified majority needed to pass.”