FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Tallahassee, Florida – July 1, 2023 – The Libertarian Party of Florida (LPF) strongly denounces Governor Ron DeSantis for signing SB 210 imposing restrictive measures on medical marijuana in the state. Governor DeSantis’ actions perpetuate the stigmatization of marijuana, despite its proven medical benefits and the support of doctors prescribing it. The Libertarian Party opposes the criminalization of proven medical therapies such as medical marijuana as anachronistic in a free society and dangerously close to a policy of forced medical treatments such as those experienced during the COVID-19 emergency.

The detrimental consequences of the long-standing war on drugs in criminalizing medical marijuana cannot be understated. It is incredibly disheartening that marijuana remains classified as a Schedule I substance under the Controlled Substances Act, despite its demonstrated potential for medical use, lack of accepted safety concerns, and availability as an affordable remedy for various ailments. One cannot help but question if influential Big Pharma companies play a role in suppressing the accessibility of this effective natural treatment.

By signing SB 210, Governor DeSantis prohibited medical marijuana use in recovery residences, even if the resident possesses a valid doctor’s recommendation. Additionally, the bill bans the sale of smokeless hemp products to individuals under the age of 21. While LPF acknowledges the Governor’s signing of a bill enabling doctors to renew medical marijuana recommendations via telehealth, we cannot ignore the regressive steps taken through SB 210.

Numerous studies and real-world examples have debunked the baseless claims of medical marijuana harming the workforce or inhibiting productivity. Governor DeSantis’ suggestion that medical marijuana could lead to death due to contamination is both unfounded and misleading.

The recent passing of SB 210 and SB 1676 by the Florida legislature, with Governor DeSantis’ signature, showcases a lack of progressive vision and a failure to address crucial criminal justice reform issues. DeSantis vetoed bills aimed at revising expungements and sentencing statutes, demonstrating a missed opportunity for meaningful change.

LPF recognizes the importance of a treatment-based approach to address addiction and supports ending the war on drugs. We invite all those who are weary of politicians perpetuating failed policies to join the Libertarian Party of Florida today. Together, we can advocate for a fair and just society that respects individual liberties and promotes responsible choices.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Matt Johnson
Chair, LPF Communications Committee 
Libertarian Party of Florida
Email: [email protected] 
Website: www.lpf.org

About the Libertarian Party of Florida (LPF):
The Libertarian Party of Florida is the state affiliate of the national Libertarian Party. LPF advocates for individual liberty, limited government, and free markets. With a strong commitment to personal freedom and individual rights, LPF aims to provide a platform for principled, pragmatic, and fiscally responsible solutions to the challenges facing Floridians.

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