Florida State Senator Tina Scott Polsky (D-30) introduced legislation on Tuesday aimed at safeguarding the parental rights of individuals who are qualified medical marijuana patients.
The bill seeks to prohibit courts from denying custody, visitation, or parenting rights solely based on a parent’s legal use of medical marijuana under Florida law.
The proposed legislation amends Florida Statute 39.806 to address issues of custody and dependency for parents who are qualified patients under the state’s medical marijuana program. The bill would prevent courts from restricting a parent’s custody, visitation rights, or parenting time based solely on their status as a medical marijuana patient.
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Additionally, it prohibits any presumption of child neglect or endangerment based solely on legal medical marijuana use. The legislation emphasizes that all custody decisions must continue to be based on the child’s best interests.
The legislation is likely to receive support from medical marijuana advocacy groups and organizations advocating for parental rights.
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Proponents argue that the bill protects families and ensures fairness in the legal system for individuals using medical marijuana responsibly and legally.
Critics, however, may raise concerns about potential risks to children or the need for stricter oversight in cases involving substance use.
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