Cannabis Laws in Florida That Everyone Should Know

Cannabis has slowly been legalized for various uses across the country in the past decade. With 18 states legalizing cannabis for recreational purposes (and another 37 for medical use), the call for full legalization is gradually becoming louder nationwide. However, although Florida is one of the 37 states to have legalized it for medical use, recreational use is still prohibited. This post will discuss how the law works in the sunshine state and what the future looks like.

Marijuana Laws In Florida

Florida allows medical marijuana but not recreational marijuana. Marijuana users in California must first receive a physician’s approval before using marijuana legally. As of 2022, recreational marijuana usage remains illegal in Florida. However, some Florida municipalities treat it instead as a civil offense that carries lesser penalties. However, this depends on the amount a person is caught carrying and if there is suspicion of dealing rather than personal use. However, this law has some nuance, and specific strains are permitted to consume legally. For example, it is legal to take Delta-8 in Florida. However, this comes with some caveats. While it is legal to possess and consume recreationally, it must contain less than 0.3% THC. However, if your Delta-8 meets this requirement, you are not only able to use it yourself but can also buy it online and distribute it to others. Moreover, you are not subject to arrest for crossing state lines with a Delta-8 variant into Florida.

What Is Delta-8?

Delta-8 THC is comparable to delta-9 THC in its hallucinogenic properties. Delta-9 THC is one of the active components of cannabis. Typically, when people refer to THC, they are referring to this chemical compound. Despite being similar to delta-9 THC, delta-8 THC has a different molecular structure, making it less potent. Thanks to this reduced effect, it is currently legal to use recreationally in the state. You can legally purchase delta-8 in various forms, including:

  • Oil
  • Vapes
  • Edibles
  • Tinctures

Using-CBD-Oil-for-Pain-Management

Is CBD Allowed?

In short, yes. CBD, or cannabidiol, is a cannabis compound that has been shown to have medical benefits without the psychoactive effects of THC. CBD can be taken as an oil, capsule, or edible, and it does not produce any kind of high. As long as the final product contains less than 0.3% THC, it is legal to possess, sell and consume without repercussion. Like delta-8, you are free to consume CBD in any way that you see fit.

What About Medical Marijuana?

Medical marijuana is a plant that has been used to treat various ailments for centuries. It has recently been legalized in many states as a form of treatment for chronic pain, seizures, and other conditions. It works by interacting with the endocannabinoid system. A significant part of the human body’s regulatory system is the endocannabinoid system. This system is responsible for regulating many vital functions, including mood, memory, appetite, pain sensation, and more. Forutanly, residents of Florida who wish to use medical marijuana to alleviate specific ailments are permitted to do so as long as they follow the correct procedures. Here is what you need to do:

  • Be or become a resident of Florida. You will need proof of residency, including a driving license, passport, and ID card. Although residents of other states are permitted to apply for a medical card, it is done on a case by case basis and could be rejected.
  • Obtain medical records for your doctor. You must have been registered with the same doctor for at least three months and will need to obtain a signed physician’s statement.
  • Once you have everything ready, you can apply for your medical card. You can apply by filling out an application and sending it to the Office of Medical Marijuana Use.
  • As long as you qualify, your application should be granted, and you will receive your card.
  • You have to renew your card every year at personal expense. 

You can legally purchase medical cannabis through any licensed treatment center in Florida once you receive a medical card. However, your medical card does not permit you to grow your own or sell or give away to anyone else. Moreover, you can still be charged with DUI if driving while intoxicated and arrested if you cross state lines (which is still a federal offense).

Despite not yet fully legalizing cannabis, Florida has some of the most progressive laws outside of legalized states. You can purchase delt-8 variants, CBD, and if you obtain a medical marijuana card, you can buy full-strength THC-containing cannabis from registered dispensaries.