An arrest for marijuana possession can haunt a person long after he or she has "paid his or her debt to society" and complied with all criminal penalties. This is particularly true in Florida where such "collateral consequences" are among the most severe in the country. For example, residents in the Sunshine State convicted of marijuana charges may lose their eligibility to:
Live in public housing,
Adopt a child or be a foster parent,
Vote,
Sit on juries,
Possess a firearm, or
Receive student financial aid
Those holding professional licenses, permits, or certifications can lose their very right to earn a living. Nursing, accounting, real estate, contracting and other licensing boards, for example, may revoke or suspend professional certifications and licenses based on drug convictions. Many government and private employers have blanket policies against hiring people with such convictions. In some cases one can also lose ones drivers license or have ones driving privileges suspended.Adopt a child or be a foster parent,
Vote,
Sit on juries,
Possess a firearm, or
Receive student financial aid