Voters say no to Florida's Amendment 3 on recreational marijuana
Florida voters reject recreational marijuana amendment
Florida voters have rejected Amendment 3, a measure that would have legalized recreational marijuana in the state.
The amendment failed by a margin of 58% to 42%.
The measure needed 60% of the vote to pass. Amendment 3 was one of several high-profile measures on the ballot in Florida this year. Other measures included a minimum wage increase and a ban on assault weapons.
The defeat of Amendment 3 is a setback for marijuana legalization advocates.
Florida would have been the first Southern state to legalize recreational marijuana if the amendment had passed. However, the defeat of Amendment 3 does not mean that marijuana legalization is dead in Florida. The issue is likely to be back on the ballot in the future.
Recreational marijuana is still illegal in Florida.
Those who possess or use recreational marijuana could face criminal charges. The penalties for marijuana possession vary depending on the amount of marijuana involved. First-time offenders may be eligible for a civil citation. Repeat offenders could face jail time.
Medical marijuana is legal in Florida.
Patients with a valid medical marijuana card can purchase and use medical marijuana. Medical marijuana is available in various forms, including flower, edibles, and oils. Medical marijuana can be used to treat a variety of conditions, including chronic pain, nausea, and seizures.