Updated 09/2024
Florida Cannabis Action Network is actively challenging the prohibition of gun ownership by medical marijuana patients. The leadership team went into action in 2021 when Commissioner Fried invited the Cannabis Action Network to help find plaintiffs for a lawsuit in development by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. The Commissioner was insistent that she would use the power of her office to settle a grave concern held by Florida patients using medical marijuana. Can a person have both a Medical Marijuana Card and a gun?
This issue had plagued the organization. In 2019, we lost substantial funding because we would not publicly say that you absolutely could not have a gun and a medical marijuana card. Ironically, it was Commissioner Fried’s position that her office could issue a concealed carry permit that caused the disagreement with the donor. We added this FAQ about guns and Florida, but it wasn’t enough for the donor.
The organization was hesitant at first to get involved with the lawsuit. We knew the Commissioner was running for Governor and were concerned about the suit lasting longer than the Commissioner term. Then FLCAN President Maria Hurley instructed the Executive Director, Jodi James, to form a working group to look at the chances for success and to liaise with the Commissioner’s office.
Florida Cannabis Action Network brought together two former plaintiffs in federal lawsuits, some great legal minds, and some PR folks, together we found some credible plaintiffs.
Outlets including NBC covered the press conference when we filed suit.
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