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Florida set strict parameters in order to be able to grow low grade medical marijuana. As Matt Galka tells us, some eligible farms see it as a potential economic boost, and the department of agriculture says the number of eligible nurseries will grow.

May Nursery started as a tobacco farm in 1971. It now grows ornament flowers. Co-Owner Fred May says he never thought he’d be thinking about growing marijuana.

“It’s not going to be cheap, but it’s a doable thing,” said May.

May Nursery meets the 30 year continuous operation and inventory requirements set by the legislature. Possibly growing cannabis that could help seizure victims isn’t out of the question for the Mays.

“We’re going to need to partner up with some type of pharmaceutical company to really learn how to do this,” said Fred May.

The Department of Agriculture originally named 21 growers who met the criteria. That number increased because Ag digital records only went back 26 years. 39 now could be eligible to grow the low-THC plant. That list is getting bigger.

The department says the number will grow larger when nurseries in year 29 hit the 30 year mark.

“We’re not looking to create a new marijuana agricultural industry in the state of Florida. We’re looking to use existing Florida businesses,” said Sen. Rob Bradley (R-Orange Park) while the bill was being debated on the Senate floor earlier this month.

Some lawmakers said 30 years was too restrictive, but May thinks experience is necessary, especially for an unknown crop.

“A lot remains to be seen, it’s a gamble, for us and for everybody,” said May.

If the bill is signed, only five nurseries will be licensed.