The 2024 ballot in Florida will include more than just the presidential election. Voters will also decide on the following six key amendments.
Amendment 4: Limiting Government Interference with Abortion
After Roe v. Wade was overturned in 2022, Florida banned abortions after 15 weeks of pregnancy. On May 1, 2024, the ban was tightened to 6 weeks. Amendment 4 aims to provide a constitutional right to abortion before the baby can survive outside the womb and allow abortions when needed to protect the patient’s health. If passed, this amendment would remove the 6-week ban.
Amendment 3: Adult Use of Marijuana
Currently, marijuana in Florida can only be used for medical reasons. Amendment 3 would allow adults 21 and older to buy and use marijuana for recreational purposes. Growing marijuana would still be controlled by Medical Marijuana Treatment Centers (MMTCs), which are state-approved. MMTCs would also sell marijuana and related products. The amendment would limit personal possession to 3 ounces of marijuana and 5 grams of concentrate.
Amendment 2: Right to Fish and Hunt
Amendment 2 wants to make fishing and hunting a public right and the main way to manage fish and wildlife. The Florida Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) would still control licensing for hunters and fishermen. While Floridians already have the right to hunt and fish, this amendment would make these activities the “preferred means” of managing wildlife. Some worry that the broad language could lead to harmful hunting and fishing practices.
Amendment 1: Partisan School Board Elections
Florida school board elections have been nonpartisan since 1998, meaning candidates’ political parties are not listed. Amendment 1 would change this by making school board elections partisan, so party labels (Republican or Democrat) would appear next to candidates’ names.
Amendment 6: Ending Public Funding for Campaigns
Currently, Florida provides public money to candidates who agree to spending limits and donation restrictions. Amendment 6 would end this public funding. Supporters believe the money should be used for other purposes, while critics argue that removing public funds would favor only wealthy candidates.
Amendment 5: Adjusting Homestead Property Tax Exemption
In Florida, property taxes for primary homes are based on the market value minus a $25,000 homestead exemption. This exemption is currently a fixed amount. Amendment 5 would adjust the exemption each year based on inflation. This means the $25,000 exemption could increase or decrease depending on the inflation rate. Note that the exemption does not apply to school district taxes.
