1. United States
2. Fla.
3. Letter

I am writing with deep concern about the lack of legal protections for Florida’s medical cannabis patients during hurricane evacuations. Currently, patients risk criminalization if they bring their prescribed medicine across state lines — even when following mandatory evacuation orders. This is unjust and dangerous. Medical cannabis is essential for patients managing conditions such as PTSD, epilepsy, cancer, and chronic pain. Hurricanes bring immense stress, disruption, and medical risks. Patients should not be forced to choose between safety and legality when evacuating with their families. I urge you to act now by: Issuing emergency cannabis reciprocity orders so that patients can travel with medicine during evacuations. Providing clear guidance to law enforcement not to detain or charge patients during declared emergencies. Allowing dispensaries to serve out-of-state patients with valid medical cards. Working with neighboring states to create prearranged mutual recognition agreements for medical cannabis during disasters. There are over 850,000 medical cannabis patients in Florida — many veterans and seniors. They deserve compassion and protection, not criminalization, in times of crisis. Please act quickly before the next storm threatens our communities.