Medical Marijuana is Growing in Sarasota

Medical Marijuana Movement Gains Momentum in Sarasota

Sarasota is about to see significant developments in the medical marijuana movement. In November, the Florida Department of Health approved five nurseries to begin testing and distributing medical marijuana in the state. Each of the five selected nurseries will cover a different region of Florida, chosen from an original pool of 28 applicants.

Innovative Cannabis Patch in Development

One Sarasota-based company is making competitive strides in the medical marijuana industry. Alternative Medical Enterprises is developing a cannabis-infused patch, which will use industrial hemp as its primary source. Researchers are exploring how to transfer the cannabis compound through the patch material to penetrate the skin effectively. The University of South Florida’s Center for Drug Discovery and Innovation has contributed to the chemical development of the patch.

Legal Conflicts with Marijuana Laws

Despite the government seeking patents in the medical marijuana industry, the drug remains at odds with Florida’s current criminal laws. Ironically, Florida still enforces some of the nation’s harshest marijuana possession laws. Possession of 20 grams or less of marijuana remains a misdemeanor, punishable by up to a year in jail. By contrast, small possession charges in New York carry minimal penalties.

John Morgan’s Advocacy for Medical Marijuana

Morgan & Morgan founder John Morgan has been a leading advocate for expanding medical marijuana access across Florida. Working with United for Care — People United for Medical Marijuana, he is pushing to have the issue put back on the upcoming election ballot. The 2014 vote narrowly failed by just two percent. United for Care’s campaign manager, Ben Pollara, stated on the organization’s website that this year’s campaign will focus on educating undecided voters.

Challenges and Future Legislation

The expansion of medical marijuana laws in Sarasota County—a traditionally Republican area—will be closely watched. In a Herald Tribune op-ed, writer John Romano argued that Florida is not yet ready for broader marijuana legislation due to the secondary legal implications. For instance, unlike alcohol, there is currently no standardized protocol to test or regulate marijuana impairment in drivers. As it stands, Florida’s first-time DUI penalties are less severe than misdemeanor marijuana possession penalties.

Legal Assistance for Marijuana-Related Charges

If you have been arrested or harassed for possessing medical marijuana or have been involved in a car accident injury, the attorneys at Morgan & Morgan can help. Fill out our online form for a free case evaluation today.