Changes Coming to Marijuana Laws in Florida?
As it currently stands in Florida, recreational marijuana is not yet legal. A bill introduced in Florida’s Senate seeks to change that. SB 1576, introduced in March of 2023 by State Senator Victor Torres, looks to legalize the use of recreational marijuana for adults of 21 and over and to provide licensing for the opening of marijuana establishments (i.e., dispensaries). If passed, the bill would become law and go into effect on July 1, 2023. This is contingent on the bill passing both houses of Florida’s Congress and then being signed into law by Governor Desantis.
Until this bill, or one like it, passes into law, possession of marijuana is still a crime in Florida. Possession of 20 grams or less of cannabis is considered a misdemeanor of the first degree, punishable by up to a year of imprisonment and a fine of up to $1,000. So, while changes to Florida’s laws regarding marijuana may be on the horizon, it is important to know that you can be arrested and charged with a crime for possessing marijuana in Miami-Dade County and the rest of Florida.
Delivery of marijuana is also a crime under the current Florida statutes. Delivery of 20 grams or less of marijuana is also punishable as a misdemeanor of the first degree, carrying with it the same possible punishments as possession. Driving with marijuana in your vehicle is ill-advised. Not only can you be charged with possession and delivery, but if the arresting officer determines that you are currently under the influence of marijuana, you can be charged with Driving Under the Influence. Such an arrest could result in having your driving privileges revoked and all the costs associated with the more typical DUI given for driving under the influence of alcohol.
If you or a loved one has been arrested for possession of marijuana, it is important to contact a drug crime attorney to understand your options moving forward. Mr. Julian Stroleny, Esq. is a former Miami-Dade State attorney with a wealth of experience in defending clients who have been accused of possessing marijuana. Please do not hesitate to contact us here at Stroleny Law P.A. We pride ourselves on our dedication to our clients and achieving the best results for their cases. Call us at (305)615-1285 for a free consultation with Mr. Stroleny, Esq. today.
