Despite changes at the federal and state levels, Sarasota County officials hope to pass a resolution barring local sales and use of recreational marijuana.
In November, four states voted to legalize recreational marijuana, bringing the total to 34 states allowing either medicinal or recreational uses. In December, the U.S. House of Representatives voted to decriminalize marijuana at the federal level.
Although Florida has allowed the use of medical marijuana, a constitutional amendment could be on the 2022 ballot to make marijuana available to all adults for personal use, and commissioners say a local resolution should be enacted as soon as possible.
But as several constitutional amendments are likely headed to Florida voters in 2022 – and as state lawmakers look to consider a bill this year that would make it available for adults – Sarasota County officials again want to make it clear that recreational marijuana will not be allowed locally.
In the coming months, commissioners will be looking to craft a resolution that would give Sarasota County “home rule authority” over the use of recreational marijuana if it’s made legal statewide.
The effort contrasts with a growing number of voters who support legalizing marijuana and is contrary to the city of Sarasota, which recently voted to decriminalize the possession of small amounts of cannabis.