Jacksonville leaders and community split over marijuana legalization ahead of the November election [Video]

As the November general election draws closer, Jacksonville leaders are divided over one key ballot item: Amendment 3—the legalization of recreational marijuana for those 21 years and older. The measure has sparked widespread discussion among residents and officials, with opinions varying on its potential benefits and risks. Action News Jax breaks down what residents and community leaders are saying, alongside the facts and implications surrounding the proposed amendment.

READ: Legalizing recreational marijuana on Florida’s November ballot: Jacksonville Mayor, Sheriff weighs in

Interviews conducted by Action News Jax on Sunday morning indicated strong support for the amendment among Jacksonville residents.

Vaneshia Smith, a resident voiced her approval stating, “What’s the issue with me smoking my marijuana and you got your cigarettes, you know? But yeah, I feel like we need it.”

Similarly, Alex Grap commented, “There’s a lot of other things that are commonplace, drinking for example. You don’t really see a corner …