Politics & Government

Medical Marijuana Use Legalized in Florida

Gov. Rick Scott signed a bill on Monday, June 16, that allows the use of Charlotte's Web in the state of Florida.

With the stroke of a pen, Florida Gov. Rick Scott legalized marijuana use in Florida on Monday, June 16. But, don’t line up at the corner store to try and buy it like the folks in Colorado or Washington can.

The bill Scott put into action only allows for the use of a very specific form of medical marijuana, known as Charlotte’s Web. This type of pot contains a very small dose of THC, which has been shown effective for treating children with seizure disorders and other conditions, according to CNN.

“The approval of Charlotte’s Web will ensure that children in Florida who suffer from seizures and other debilitating illnesses will have the medication needed to improve their quality of life,” Scott is quoted by the Orlando Business Journal as saying.

Find out what's happening in New Port Richeywith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Scott’s approval of the “Compassionate Medical Cannabis Act of 2014” does not affect Amendment 2, which is slated to appear on the ballot in November. That amendment would further expand the use of medical marijuana in the state, if it garners voter support.

What are your thoughts on Scott’s action? Was it the right call to legalize Charlotte’s Web? Tell us by commenting below!

Find out what's happening in New Port Richeywith free, real-time updates from Patch.


Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here