Poll Shows Florida Voters Support Legalization of Medical Marijuana

Florida voters have shown overwhelming support for legalizing the use of medical marijuana, according to a poll released Monday.

A new Quinnipiac University poll found that 88 percent of voters support the legal use of marijuana for medical purposes, while ten percent do not. Additionally, the poll found that most Florida voters are in favor of allowing adults to have small amounts of marijuana for recreational use, with 55 percent supporting the measure compared to 41 percent who opposed it.

“Forget the stereotypes of stodgy old folks living out their golden years playing canasta and golf,” said Peter Brown, assistant director of the Quinnipiac University poll. “Almost nine-in-ten Floridians favor legalizing medical marijuana and a small majority says adults should be able to possess small amounts of the drug for recreational purposes.”

Younger voters have the highest support for the issue, with 95 percent of respondents between the ages of 18 and 29 in favor of legalizing medical marijuana. Among voters over 65 years, 83 percent voted in favor of legalization of medical marijuana. The lowest level of support is among Republicans, with 80 percent supporting legalization of medical marijuana. Support among Democrats and independent voters were 94 percent and 89 percent, respectively.

On November 4, Florida voters will vote on Amendment 2, which, if approved, would allow people with debilitating conditions to get a medical marijuana card. Patients requesting a card would have to be examined by a physician, whom would be required to issue a recommendation to the state that the drug would benefit the patient.

“Even though a proposal to legalize medical marijuana, on a ballot this November, must meet a 60 percent threshold, these numbers make a strong bet the referendum is likely to pass,” said Brown.

Opponents of Amendment 2 question the poll’s findings since voters weren’t asked specifically about the proposed constitutional amendment. Both advocates and opponents have been campaigning heavily, and will likely to continue until November.

Source: Quinnipiac University

Last updated: 7/29/14; 11:30am EST