Florida Lawmakers Propose Statewide Smoking Ban

Florida lawmakers, led by Republican Sen. Joe Gruters, are proposing a statewide ban on public smoking in anticipation of the possible legalization of recreational marijuana under Amendment 3. Gruters, who supports the amendment, wants to prevent Florida from experiencing negative impacts like those seen in Las Vegas and New York by banning smoking, including vaping and marijuana, in public places such as parks, sidewalks, and apartment buildings. Gov. Ron DeSantis and other critics argue that legalizing marijuana would degrade the quality of life due to public smoking. The bipartisan initiative also includes Democratic Sen. Darryl Rouson and Republican Rep. Chip LaMarca, who aim to establish regulatory guardrails to protect public enjoyment and environmental quality. The Florida Supreme Court has cleared the amendment for the November ballot, allowing adults 21 and older to purchase, possess, and consume up to three grams of marijuana. The proposed smoking ban is contingent on Amendment 3 receiving 60% voter approval to become law.