Florida voters reject recreational marijuana

Statewide referendum defeated with 58% of the vote

Measure would have legalized recreational marijuana use for adults

Florida voters have rejected a proposed constitutional amendment that would have legalized recreational marijuana use for adults.

The measure, Amendment 2, was defeated with 58% of the vote, according to unofficial results from the Florida Division of Elections.

The amendment needed 60% of the vote to pass.

The defeat of Amendment 2 is a setback for marijuana legalization advocates in Florida.

The state has allowed medical marijuana use since 2016, but recreational marijuana remains illegal.

Supporters of Amendment 2 argued that it would have boosted the state's economy and created jobs.

They also said it would have reduced crime and freed up law enforcement resources.

Opponents of the amendment argued that it would have increased drug use and addiction.

They also said it would have sent the wrong message to young people.

The defeat of Amendment 2 is a reminder that marijuana legalization is still a controversial issue in Florida.

It is unclear when or if another attempt will be made to legalize recreational marijuana in the state.