Republican David Borrero came through the primary to challenge pro-Cannabis Democrat Maureen Porras. Maureen Porras earns a 5-LEAF rating for her statements. To retain a 5-LEAF rating lawmakers must introduce pro-Cannabis legislation.

Maureen Porras said, “Yes. Small possession has already been “decriminalized” in many parts of Florida, including Broward County (since 2015), which allows law enforcement officers to issue civil citations instead of arresting offenders. However, marijuana is still listed as a schedule I drug under the Federal Controlled Substance Act. Schedule I drugs, which includes LSD, are drugs considered to have a high potential for abuse and no medical value. However, numerous studies have shown that marijuana has many medicinal uses. Additionally, upon the legalization of marijuana, the infusion of a new “market” in Florida will permit the state to be able to properly regulate it and provide much needed tax revenue for the state, which will boost our general revenue fund. In addition, the legalization of marijuana would eliminate numerous immigration cases that end up in removal proceedings due to marijuana use/possession convictions.”