The State of Florida has now validated 379,345 signatures in support of a marijuana legalization initiative, representing 43% of the 880,062 signatures required to qualify the measure for the 2026 general election ballot.
The proposal, backed by the group Smart & Safe Florida which has already raised over $20 million, would legalize the possession, purchase, and use of marijuana for adults 21 and older. It would establish a system of regulated, licensed and taxed cannabis stores, with existing Medical Marijuana Treatment Centers allowed to receive a dual-license to serve the recreational market in addition to providing products for patients.
The measure would set a possession limit of two ounces per adult and ban the public use of marijuana through smoking or vaping.
A few days ago the group officially surpassed the 25% signature threshold to qualify for a mandatory judicial and financial impact review. Today, the state validated around 1,500 additional signatures. Smart & Safe Florida has until February to collect the remaining signatures to qualify for the November 2026 ballot.
The measure builds upon Amendment 3, which appeared on the 2024 ballot and received 56% support—short of the 60% needed for approval.
If the new initiative reaches the 2026 ballot and is approved by voters, it would take effect six months after Election Day.
