House Bill 1501 proposes comprehensive amendments to Florida's regulations surrounding medical marijuana treatment centers (MMTCs) and the use of marijuana for both medical and adult recreational purposes. The bill redefines key terms, including "marijuana," to explicitly include low-THC cannabis dispensed from MMTCs, and establishes new requirements for MMTCs, such as obtaining separate operating licenses for various operations and adhering to updated testing and packaging standards. It also introduces a facility permit system, mandates that MMTCs test marijuana before sale, and allows for the sale of marijuana to adults aged 21 and older under specific conditions. Additionally, the bill emphasizes the importance of safety and compliance, requiring MMTCs to maintain secure environments and adhere to strict regulations regarding the transportation and delivery of marijuana products.

Furthermore, the bill addresses the expungement of criminal records related to cannabis possession, allowing individuals with certain convictions to seek resentencing or expungement under the new regulations. It establishes eligibility criteria for expungement, including possession limits and the requirement for a certificate of eligibility. The bill also clarifies the authority of courts in handling expunction requests and allows individuals with expunged records to lawfully deny their arrests or convictions. Overall, HB 1501 aims to create a regulated framework for marijuana use in Florida, balancing public safety with access for qualified users while streamlining the regulatory processes for MMTCs.

Statutes affected:
H 1501 Filed: 212.08, 893.15