Medical Marijuana Win In Florida 'Truly Historic' Says Campaign Manager

Florida voters approved a state constitutional amendment Tuesday to legalize medical marijuana, broadening access to pot beyond the limited therapeutic uses approved by the legislature two years ago.

Currently, the law allows non-smoked, low-THC pot for patients with cancer or ailments that cause chronic seizures or severe spasms. The ballot measure formally legalizes medical marijuana, and broadens access for diseases with symptoms other than seizures or spasms.

We were confident going into the election that it was going to pass but this is truly historic, said Ben Pollara, campaign manager for United for Care.

Specifically the measure allows prescriptions for 10 illnesses: cancer, epilepsy, glaucoma, AIDS, post-traumatic stress disorder, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Crohns disease, Parkinsons and multiple sclerosis. It also allows doctors to prescribe pot for any other similar kind of ailment.

A similar ballot measure narrowly failed in 2014, when opponents expressed concerns that the state would be overrun with pot shops and that children wouldnt be adequately protected from potential bad effects of the drug.

Many thought that having the issue on the ballot during a presidential election would carry it past the 60 percent threshold needed to become law.

There is more embracing of marijuana, especially for medical purposes, nationally, said Pat Allen, a 51-year old teacher from Tallahassee who voted for it.

Florida becomes the 26th state along with the District of Columbia to legalize the marijuana plant for medical use. Before the passage of Amendment 2, Florida was one of 16 states where only part of the marijuana plant is used.

Proponents said loopholes were closed this time, including requiring parental written consent for underage patients.

The Department of Health will regulate how medical marijuana can be distributed along with mandating identification cards for caregivers and patients ...