Florida’s medical marijuana landscape stands ready for transformation. Late last month, the state’s Department of Health’s Office of Medical Marijuana Use issued “letters of intent to approve” to 22 companies vying to become Medical Marijuana
Treatment Centers (MMTCs).
The development marks a significant milestone in the industry—despite the November failure of a recreational marijuana ballot initiative.
The High Cost of Entry
The road to approval was steep and costly. In April 2023, 74 companies paid a non-refundable $146,000 application fee. They faced additional legal, consulting, real estate, and operational planning expenses. The total costs? $300,000 or more for most applicants.
“It’s certainly a huge obstacle to overcome, being in the top 22,” notes Dustin Robinson, CEO of Global Investment Group and one of the successful applicants. “But there’s still a lot ahead to get the final reward of the license.”
Robinson explains that the selection process involved a rigorous scoring system managed by a third-party evaluator: “The state wanted to see that you could operate this license effectively—from infrastructure to personnel, real estate, and operational readiness. It’s about proving you’re ready to launch, even before getting the license.”
What’s Next for Approved Applicants?
Despite the green light, the 22 companies must wait before officially starting operations. Applicants previously denied approval have 21 days to file challenges. The process could lead to prolonged litigation.
These delays mean the newly approved MMTCs must wait to cultivate or sell medical marijuana until the resolution of all legal disputes.
“There is potential for legislative intervention,” explains Paula Savchenko, an attorney with Cannacore Group. “Lawmakers could pass an initiative allowing the 22 approved groups to move forward while litigation for denied applicants continues.”
Meeting Patient Demand
The approval of new MMTCs aims to address two pressing challenges in Florida’s medical marijuana industry: increasing patient demand and the need for market expansion.
According to the Florida Department of Health, the state had, as of 2023, more than 700,000 active medical marijuana patients. With one of the country’s largest medical cannabis markets, the demand for diverse, high-quality products continues to grow.
The problem? Florida’s stringent “vertical integration” model requires that the same company cultivate, process, and dispense all cannabis products sold.
“This is about providing better options for patients,” explains attorney Paula Savchenko. “Medical marijuana is a medicine, and different products work better for different people. Expanding the number of providers means patients will have more choices tailored to their needs.”
With more MMTCs, patients can access a wider array of products. Using items ranging from oils to edibles will ensure treatment options meet individual medical needs.
A Milestone for the Industry
This announcement represents the first batch of new MMTC approvals since the program’s inception. For Robinson, the process was a long time coming. “This is a milestone for Florida’s medical marijuana industry,” he insists. “It shows that the market is maturing and ready for growth.”
The approval of these centers comes at a critical time for the state. Florida is grappling with how to meet the increasing demand for medical marijuana—while simultaneously maintaining strict regulatory standards.
The industry’s future in Florida hinges on resolving ongoing legal challenges. Hence, many are hoping for legislative action to expedite the process.
About Florida’s Medical Marijuana Program
Florida established its medical marijuana program to provide patients with safe and effective cannabis-based treatments. All products must be cultivated, processed, and dispensed within the state. The program ensures quality and compliance by operating under stringent regulations.
For more information, visit the Florida Department of Health’s Office of Medical Marijuana Use website.
