While he has yet to hold public office, Proia claims to have "been a very vocal public supporter of legalizing weed for quite a few years now." (Candidate Survey Response)

When asked to provide a statement on the federal prohibition of cannabis, Proia explained, "Ending the federal prohibition of marijuana is essential for our economic growth in Florida, especially for small businesses. Legalizing marijuana will create new opportunities for us to benefit local entrepreneurs, leading to job creation and boosting our local economies. Small businesses will benefit from a regulated marketplace, allowing them to operate transparently and compete fairly. This will also provide them access to essential banking services and loans, fostering innovation and expansion. Moreover, legalization will help address past injustices by prioritizing licensing opportunities for those from communities disproportionately affected by previous drug policies. This ensures the benefits of legalization are shared broadly and fairly. Ending the federal prohibition of marijuana is not just about justice; it’s about empowering small businesses and driving local economic development, not only in District 33, but all across Florida. Together, we can build a more prosperous and just future for all." (Candidate Survey Response)

Proia expanded, "Legalizing and regulating the responsible use of marijuana by adults is a common-sense policy that will benefit Florida, especially District 33. Allowing adults to use marijuana responsibly will create new economic opportunities and generate significant tax revenue that can be invested in our communities. This move will support small businesses, create jobs, and boost local economies. Regulation ensures that marijuana is safe, with standards for quality and safety, reducing the risks associated with unregulated markets. It also allows law enforcement to focus on more serious crimes, improving public safety. Furthermore, legalizing marijuana addresses social justice issues by reducing the number of arrests and convictions for non-violent offenses, which disproportionately affect communities of color. This policy will help to create a more equitable legal system. In summary, legalizing and regulating the responsible use of marijuana by adults is a smart and fair policy. It will boost our economy, enhance public safety, and promote social justice in Florida, particularly in District 33. Let’s take this important step to create a better future for all Floridians." (Candidate Survey Response)

On expungement, Proia wrote, "automatic expungement of non-violent marijuana possession convictions is essential for justice and fairness in Florida, especially in District 33. Many Floridians, including those in our district, face challenges in finding jobs, housing, and education because of old marijuana possession convictions. These convictions unfairly impact communities of color and keep people trapped in poverty. By automatically clearing these records, we can help people move forward without a criminal record holding them back. This policy will also correct past injustices and make sure that those affected by outdated laws have a fair chance to rebuild their lives. It will simplify the legal process, saving time and resources for everyone. In summary, automatic expungement of non-violent marijuana possession convictions is a fair and sensible policy. It will remove barriers to opportunity and create a more just legal system in Florida, particularly in District 33. Let’s make this important change to build a brighter future for all Floridians." (Candidate Survey Response)

Proia is in favor of decriminalization, stating, "Decriminalizing the simple possession of marijuana is a crucial step toward creating a fairer and more just society. Criminalizing marijuana possession has led to the unnecessary incarceration of countless individuals, disproportionately affecting communities of color and straining our criminal justice system. By decriminalizing simple possession, we can reduce the burden on our legal system, allowing law enforcement to focus on more serious crimes. Decriminalization will also alleviate the long-term consequences that minor marijuana offenses have on individuals' lives. These offenses often hinder access to employment, housing, and education, perpetuating cycles of poverty and inequality. Moreover, decriminalizing marijuana possession will save taxpayers money by reducing the costs associated with arrests, prosecutions, and incarcerations for non-violent drug offenses. These resources can be better invested in education, healthcare, and community development. In conclusion, decriminalizing the simple possession of marijuana is a sensible and compassionate policy. It promotes justice, reduces the strain on our criminal justice system, and allows individuals to move forward without the stigma of a criminal record. Let's take this important step to ensure a more equitable and efficient legal system for all Floridians."

Proia has expressed his full support of medical marijuana, stating, "legalizing the medical use of marijuana has been a compassionate and necessary step toward improving the health and well-being of our citizens. Medical marijuana has been proven to provide significant relief for individuals suffering from a variety of conditions, including chronic pain, epilepsy, PTSD, and cancer. Since legalizing its use, we can offer patients a natural and effective alternative to traditional pharmaceuticals, which often come with harsh side effects and the risk of addiction. Legalizing medical marijuana has also enabled rigorous scientific research, allowing us to fully understand its benefits and potential. This will lead to better, more informed treatment options for patients. Furthermore, a regulated medical marijuana industry has created jobs, generated tax revenue, and supported local economies. It has ensured that patients have safe, legal access to high-quality medical cannabis products. In conclusion, legalizing the medical use of marijuana is a compassionate and practical approach to healthcare. It provides relief to those in need, supports scientific research, and boosts our local economy. Let’s continue to move forward with this important change to enhance the quality of life for all Floridians." (Candidate Survey Response)

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