Florida is using opioid settlement money on an anti-marijuana ad campaign

The state of Florida is utilizing $4 million from opioid settlement funds to launch an advertising campaign against marijuana use, targeting families and youth. According to state records, the campaign, initiated by the Department of Children and Families, aims to raise awareness about the dangers associated with marijuana, particularly its mental health implications. Recent advertisements have drawn connections between marijuana use and severe conditions like schizophrenia, asserting that modern marijuana is engineered by corporations to manipulate the human mind. This campaign unfolds as Governor Ron DeSantis intensifies his opposition to Amendment 3, which seeks to legalize adult recreational marijuana in Florida. DeSantis has labeled the amendment as “more liberal” than existing laws in states like Colorado, emphasizing his administration's stance against it.

Critics contend that the ads are politically motivated, designed to influence voters ahead of the upcoming election. Amid growing concerns about substance use among youth, the campaign has sparked debate over the ethical use of opioid settlement money. First Lady Casey DeSantis has also joined the fight, holding news conferences alongside law enforcement to rally opposition against the amendment, furthering the narrative that marijuana use can lead to more significant drug issues.