The bill amends section 381.986 of the Florida Statutes to allow qualified patients aged 21 and older to apply for a certificate from the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services to cultivate up to two cannabis plants for personal use. The Department is tasked with establishing rules for the issuance and regulation of these certificates, including inspection and registration of the plants. Additionally, if the applicant is leasing their residence, they must provide documentation showing that the property owner consents to the cultivation. The bill specifies that only two plants may be cultivated at a single residence, regardless of the number of qualified patients living there.
Furthermore, the bill outlines specific requirements for the cultivation of cannabis plants, including that they must be kept in an enclosed, locked space to prevent unauthorized access, particularly by individuals under 21. It also prohibits cultivation in locations visible to the public without special aids. Violations of these regulations are classified as a first-degree misdemeanor, with penalties as outlined in existing statutes. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.