Florida has long held a reputation for having some of the nation’s strictest drug laws and robust enforcement initiatives. The law classifies most drug-related offenses as felonies, and drug trafficking offenses are penalized with mandatory minimum prison sentences.

While some parts of the country have taken moves to decriminalize or decrease penalties for possessing small quantities of illegal drugs, the state of Florida continues to take a hardline approach to drug possession. Most illicit drugs fall under categories that carry felony criminal charges for possession. Depending upon the drug type and amount, those convicted of drug possession face up to 30 years in prison and/or a $10,000 fine when charged as a felony. Misdemeanor drug possession charges carry a maximum penalty of up to one year in jail and/or a $1,000 fine. According to Florida Department...