The state of Florida has long been known for its beautiful beaches, sunny weather, and vibrant culture. However, in recent months, the state has been making headlines for a different reason – the actions of its governor, Ron DeSantis. In a shocking turn of events, DeSantis has taken unprecedented steps to undermine citizen-led efforts to protect abortion rights and legalize marijuana. This move has sparked outrage and disbelief among many Floridians, who are now questioning the true intentions of their elected leader.
The controversy began when DeSantis signed a bill into law that requires minors to obtain parental consent before having an abortion. This bill, known as SB 404, was passed by the Florida legislature in March and has been met with fierce opposition from pro-choice advocates. The bill is set to go into effect on July 1st, but its implementation has been temporarily blocked by a federal judge. Despite this setback, DeSantis remains determined to see the bill enforced, going so far as to appeal the judge’s ruling.
What is most concerning about this bill is that it directly contradicts the will of Florida voters. In 2020, a ballot initiative known as Amendment 4 was passed with a majority vote, which stated that “every woman has a fundamental right to privacy and the right to terminate a pregnancy.” This amendment was a clear indication of the people’s stance on abortion rights, yet DeSantis has chosen to ignore it and push his own agenda.
But the attack on reproductive rights doesn’t stop there. DeSantis has also proposed a bill that would require doctors to provide medical care to infants who survive failed abortions. This bill, known as the “Born-Alive Infant Protection Act,” is a thinly veiled attempt to restrict access to abortion by creating unnecessary and burdensome regulations for healthcare providers. It is a blatant disregard for the rights of women and their doctors to make medical decisions based on their own personal and unique circumstances.
In addition to his assault on abortion rights, DeSantis has also set his sights on legalizing marijuana. In 2016, Florida voters approved a constitutional amendment that legalized medical marijuana. However, DeSantis has been slow to implement this amendment and has even gone as far as to appeal a court ruling that struck down a ban on smoking medical marijuana. This delay in implementing the will of the people has caused frustration and disappointment among many Floridians who were hopeful for easier access to medical marijuana.
But the most shocking move by DeSantis came in May when he signed a bill that limits the potency of medical marijuana. This bill, known as SB 182, sets a cap on the amount of THC, the psychoactive component of marijuana, that can be present in medical marijuana products. This cap is set at 10%, which is significantly lower than the average potency of medical marijuana products currently available. This move has been met with outrage from patients who rely on higher potency products for their medical conditions.
It is clear that DeSantis is not acting in the best interest of the people of Florida. He is disregarding the will of the voters and pushing his own personal beliefs onto the state. His actions are not only undemocratic but also harmful to the well-being of Floridians. By limiting access to abortion and medical marijuana, DeSantis is denying people their fundamental rights and hindering their ability to make their own medical decisions.
But the fight is not over. Floridians are standing up and speaking out against DeSantis’s actions. Protests have been organized, and advocacy groups are working tirelessly to protect reproductive rights and ensure access to medical marijuana. The people of Florida will not be silenced, and they will not back down in the face of this attack on their rights.
In the words of Florida State Representative Anna Eskamani, “Governor DeSantis is not a king, and he does not have the right to trample on the will of the people.” It is time for DeSantis to listen to the voices of his constituents and start prioritizing their needs and desires. It is time for him to stop undermining citizen-led efforts and start working towards a better and more inclusive Florida.
In conclusion, the actions of Governor Ron DeSantis in regards to abortion rights and medical marijuana are unacceptable and go against the will of the people. It is time for him to listen to the voices of his constituents and start working towards a more progressive and inclusive Florida. The people of Florida will not
