FLORIDA TODAY: Yes on Amendment 2, medical marijuana

In 2014, we urged voters to pass Amendment 2 and give Floridians the freedom to choose medical marijuana as a legal form of relief.

We feel just as strongly now that Floridians should have access to medical marijuana use, as do residents of 25 other states and Washington, D.C. 

Our stand: Say yes to Amendment 2, "Use of Marijuana for Debilitating Medical Conditions."

Back in 2014, a similar constitutional amendment was on the ballot. A majority of Florida voters (58 percent) supported it but it failed to win the 60 percent required for passage.

Today, a retooled and more-restrictive amendment being pushed by United We Care addresses key concerns raised earlier by opponents. That, along with better understanding of the proposal by voters statewide, has translated to polls showing support at between 68.8 and 77 percent.

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Amendment language has been refined in reassuring ways. No longer are eligible ailments described simply as "debilitating." Definitions of eligible medical conditions are strictly spelled out, with those conditions including, among others, cancer, HIV, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease and glaucoma. Those approved for treatment by a licensed state physician will be issued an ID card by the state, and will be able to buy the marijuana from state-regulated dispensaries, details of which are still being considered by the Legislature.The Department of Health would regulate marijuana production and distribution centers.

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The updated amendment also limits the number of patients a caregiver can treat.  It requires parental consent and verification for minors. Doctors who prescribe negligently could be sued for malpractice.

Opponents are still concerned. Drug Free Florida insists that medical marijuana "isn't medicine" and has barraged voters with ads urging them to say no. Fearmongers paint a picture of "head shops" or pot sales on every corner, which hasn't happened elsewhere and which cities have the regulatory power to stop.  Some decry medical cannabis being written into the state Constitution, believing the Legislature should handle it.  That hasn't happened, though legislators have approved medical marijuana in limited circumstances and for patients with terminal illnesses.

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The Sunshine State is home to the nation's largest percentage of people 65 and older, a demographic for whom chronic pain and devastating illnesses are commonplace and expensive to treat with pharmaceuticals. Amendment 2 would give them another option, if their doctors conclude it's right for them.

As we said back in 2014, a "yes" vote would expand personal freedom and health options for the hurting, with little potential downside.

A "yes" vote on Amendment 2 is right for Floridians and their families.