When Did Florida Legalize Medical Marijuana?

Are you a St. Petersburg, Florida resident, curious about when the state legalized medical marijuana? Understanding the history and current regulations surrounding medicinal cannabis in Florida is essential for patients who wish to use it for treatment. This comprehensive guide will walk you through Florida’s medical cannabis legalization timeline, qualifying conditions, and the steps to obtain a medicinal cannabis prescription.

When Was Medical Marijuana Legalized In Florida?

Florida legalized medical marijuana on November 8, 2016, when more than 71% of Florida voters approved the Florida Medical Marijuana Legalization Initiative, also known as Amendment 2. The amendment expanded the list of qualifying conditions and allowed for higher-THC products, making medical cannabis accessible to a larger patient population.

Qualifying Conditions in Florida

Florida recognizes several qualifying conditions for medicinal cannabis prescriptions. These conditions include:

1. Cancer
2. Epilepsy
3. Glaucoma
4. HIV/AIDS
5. Crohn’s disease
6. Parkinson’s disease
7. Multiple sclerosis (MS)
8. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
9. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)
10. Chronic nonmalignant pain
11. Medical conditions comparable to those listed above
12. Terminal conditions diagnosed by a physician other than the patient’s primary care provider

The medical cannabis program in Florida provides access to natural and potentially effective treatment options for patients with various medical conditions.

How to Obtain a Medicinal Cannabis Prescription in St. Petersburg, Florida

If you’re a resident of St. Petersburg and believe you qualify for medical cannabis, follow these steps to obtain a prescription:

1. Consult a qualified physician: Schedule an appointment with a Florida-licensed physician registered with the Office of Medical Marijuana Use (OMMU). During your consultation, the physician will assess your medical condition and determine your eligibility for medical cannabis.
2. Register with the OMMU: If your physician approves you for medical cannabis, they will enter your information into the OMMU’s online registry. You will then need to complete the application and pay a $75 fee to receive a Medical Marijuana Use Registry Identification Card.
3. Obtain your medicinal cannabis prescription: You can purchase your prescribed cannabis products at a licensed Medical Marijuana Treatment Center (MMTC) in St. Petersburg once your application is approved.

Your journey toward relief starts with a consultation with our doctor. Reach out to Access Marijuana RX today at 727-209-5470. Patients from Tampa and throughout Florida can come to our St. Petersburg facility.