In this episode of Let's Be Blunt with Montel, we sit down with Moriah Barnhart, a prominent advocate and businesswoman from the Tampa Bay Area, to discuss the groundbreaking Florida Amendment 3. On the ballot in November 2024, this initiative aims to legalize adult-use cannabis for those aged 21 and older. Moriah brings her wealth of experience in the medical cannabis community to the table, providing valuable insights into the potential impacts of this initiative on Florida's economy, job market, and overall cannabis landscape.

The discussion begins with an overview of Florida Amendment 3, detailing what the initiative entails and what it would legalize. We then explore the major players backing and opposing the initiative, including Smart and Safe Florida and Drug Free America. Our conversation takes a deep dive into how legalization could bring significant economic benefits, potentially generating between $4.9 billion to $6.1 billion in sales in the first year. We also discuss the necessary steps to achieve the required 60% supermajority vote for the amendment.

Insight into Governor DeSantis' stance on adult-use cannabis legalization is shared, aligning Florida's potential legalization with broader national trends. We highlight how the initiative might influence voter turnout in the 2024 elections, particularly among younger demographics. The proposed tax rates and how the funds will be allocated are discussed in detail, along with the impact of legalization on past marijuana-related convictions through the expungement of convictions.

Join us for an in-depth conversation that not only sheds light on Florida's legislative landscape but also emphasizes the broader implications of cannabis reform. Tune in to get informed, get involved, and stay ahead of the curve.

Learn more about Florida Amendment 3 and how you can contribute to this historic movement at https://www.wiseflorida.org.

Welcome back to another episode of "Let's Be Blunt with Montel." In this enlightening episode, Montel Williams is joined by two trailblazers in the cannabis industry, Brian Keith and Holly Alberti. Brian Keith is the Co-Founder & COO of Rooted In, a community-conscious dispensary in Boston's Back Bay, and Holly Alberti serves as the VP of Sales & Business Development.

Rooted In stands out in the cannabis landscape with a mission deeply rooted in racial equity and community engagement. In this episode, Brian and Holly share their journeys into the cannabis industry, the unique mission of Rooted In, and the various ways they are working to build generational wealth and create a more just and equitable industry. Key points discussed include the background and vision behind Rooted In, the importance of racial equity and community engagement in the cannabis industry, the challenges and successes Rooted In has faced, the potential impact of cannabis rescheduling on the industry, how small businesses can stay competitive against multi-state operators (MSOs), and insights into making the cannabis industry more equitable.

Tune in for an inspiring discussion and learn how you can support or get involved with Rooted In's mission to create a more inclusive and equitable cannabis industry.

Don't forget to subscribe to our podcast for more insightful episodes, and visit Rooted In's website to learn more about their incredible work and how you can support their mission. Stay informed and stay blunt!

In this compelling episode of Let's Be Blunt with Montel, Montel talks with Nebraskan activist Crista Eggers, who is on a mission to legalize medicinal cannabis in Nebraska. Crista's fight is personal—her 9-year-old son, Colton, suffers from severe epilepsy, and traditional pharmaceuticals have failed to provide relief. With a looming deadline of July 3, Crista and her team must gather over 87,000 signatures on two petitions to get a medical cannabis initiative on the state's November ballot.

Join Montel and Crista as they discuss:

• Colton's health struggles and the desperate need for medical cannabis
• The challenges and triumphs of gathering signatures for the ballot initiative
• The broader implications of Nebraska's cannabis laws in comparison to other states
• The personal toll on families fighting for access to life-changing treatments

Crista provides a raw, heartfelt look at the obstacles faced by patients and caregivers in states without medical cannabis laws. Her resilience and determination offer hope and inspiration to families in similar situations.