The business aspect of the Cannabis industry was Maria’s entry to activism. A founding member of SMRT Collective, serving on the board of The Rainy Day Foundation, and an affiliate of the Florida 3rd party testing laboratory industry, Maria’s experience with the Florida Medical Cannabis program is extensive.
Maria Hurley became interested in advocacy locally when cities and counties started banning dispensaries in 2017. Realizing that the decision to zone as pharmacies or ban altogether was the poor choice given to municipalities by the State, she knew it was time to work at that level to effect change and increase access.
She went to an event designed to bring advocates together to get everyone moving in a cohesive direction. She left the meeting on that Saturday and moved into the FLCAN house in Tallahassee for the legislative session the following day in January 2018 and has never looked back. She has been an active FLCAN member since. She has chaired the Legislative Committee, served on the Communications Committee, and has collaborated on numerous projects and events.
Maria believes that Cannabis should be your first choice for healthcare, not a last resort.
Maria believes Cannabis is good medicine and good fun. Relaxing and socializing is all part of good health. It is important to have good research. Everyone should have the freedom to use this plant and should not be jailed for possessing and consuming it. We have much to learn and much to be thankful for in Cannabis.
Maria is committed to always serving the patients of the State of Florida and to working passionately for the goals of FLCAN. She was elected to the office of President in 2020.
