Collier County Commissioners are making their position on marijuana clear ahead of a ballot measure that will be decided by voters in November.
In a 5-0 vote, the board formally opposed Amendment 3.
It is a symbolic move, as the decision as to whether recreational marijuana should be legalized in Florida voters will ultimately be decided by voters in the upcoming election. It comes shortly after the board voted on a similar measure to condemn an abortion measure.
If passed, Amendment 3 would legalize marijuana for adults 21 years old and older. It will also allow individuals to possess up to three ounces of marijuana.
Pro-marijuana groups have spent record amounts to campaign for a “yes” vote on the measure.
The debate on legalizing pot is even dividing Republican groups.
Diane Van Parys from Preserve Paradise Collier County, who collaborated with Commissioner Dan Kowal to push the board’s opposition, expressed her satisfaction with the unanimous vote.
“I’m really excited that it’s unanimous, and I really appreciate all of our commissioners for taking the time to understand what this amendment means,” Van Parys said.