Florida marijuana legalization campaign says there’s still chance to make 2026 ballot

OG article by MJBizDaily Staff

February 3, 2026

The Smart and Safe Florida campaign, backed by Trulieve Cannabis Corp., maintains optimism about qualifying for the 2026 ballot despite Florida Secretary of State Cord Byrd's February 1 announcement that it fell short of the 880,000 valid signatures needed. Over 1.4 million signatures were submitted, with 783,592 verified so far and county reviews ongoing. A spokesperson affirmed, “We submitted over 1.4 million signatures and believe, when they are all counted, we will have more than enough.” Trulieve invested over $52 million this cycle after $150 million in the failed 2024 push. Florida remains the largest medical-only market, but slowing patient growth heightens adult-use importance. Opposition from Gov. Ron DeSantis and Republicans forces reliance on voter initiatives. Challenges include canvasser arrests, an expanded criminal probe, and new election laws under lawsuit (hearing February 9). The campaign pledges to continue fighting obstacles. Success would open recreational sales in a major market; failure would delay efforts amid regulatory hurdles and political resistance.