The Florida Sheriffs Association has passed a resolution opposing the legalization of recreational marijuana, including its use, possession, cultivation, delivery and sale. The resolution highlights the detrimental impacts that commercialization and legalization of recreational marijuana have on public health and safety. These impacts include the rise of a profit-driven marijuana industry, an increase in both use and addiction to marijuana, particularly among adolescents, a rise in crime, more emergency department visits, increased traffic fatalities, and higher potency leading to negative mental health impacts.

Florida Sheriffs Association President and Charlotte County Sheriff Bill Prummell states, “The well-being and health of the citizens of Florida are threatened through the legalization and normalization of recreational marijuana. Our priority is the safety and security of our communities, and the data clearly shows that legalization leads to increased public health issues, road safety concerns, and a rise in youth marijuana use. We must take a stand to protect our citizens, especially our youth, from the negative impacts of marijuana.”

Florida Sheriffs Association Immediate Past President and Nassau County Sheriff Bill Leeper added, “At the end of the day, the legalization of recreational marijuana prioritizes the interests of the marijuana industry over the health and safety of every Floridian, because we have seen the impact on our youth, on our roadways, within the illicit market, within the healthcare industry and more. By opposing the legalization and commercialization of recreational marijuana, we are committed to safeguarding our citizens from various potential harms.”

Access the resolution here and the related newsroom blog here.