Recreational marijuana sales in Ohio could begin as early as mid-June after new licensing rules for dispensaries passed a key legislative hurdle on Monday. The state has been in limbo since December when an initiated statute allowed adults over 21 to possess and grow cannabis at home, but did not provide a legal way to purchase it. Concerns about a potential black market prompted the development of dual licensing for medical marijuana dispensaries to also sell recreational products. Application availability is expected by June 7, following the timeline set by the initiated statute.
Jim Canepa, superintendent of the Division of Cannabis Control, emphasized the importance of following the timeline laid out by the law, but did not want to speculate on the approval process for each application. Tom Haren, spokesperson for the Ohio Cannabis Coaltion, expressed excitement for the upcoming rollout of adult-use sales and mentioned that existing dispensaries have been preparing for this transition. Most dispensaries are expected to apply for dual licenses to sell both medical and recreational products, as outlined in the new rules package. The program must be fully implemented by the final deadline of September 7.
The new law allows adults to purchase and possess up to 2.5 ounces of cannabis, as well as grow up to six plants individually or 12 plants per household at home. Sales will be subject to a 10% tax, with revenue divided between various purposes such as administrative costs, addiction treatment, social equity programs, and industry support. Republican state Rep. Jamie Callendar praised the speed at which the Cannabis Control division is preparing the program and highlighted the importance of working through the rules process rather than hastily passing legislation. Callendar noted that additional legislation may be needed to address issues like child safety, marketing regulations, and business protection.
Initial plans for a legislative rewrite by DeWine and the Ohio Senate were met with opposition from backers of the original ballot measure and members of the House. The proposed changes would have restricted home-growing, reduced possession limits, and increased taxes on purchases. Additionally, funding for social equity programs would have been eliminated in favor of directing tax revenue to a general state fund. The failure to pass the bill in the House led to the progression of the initiated statute as approved by voters in the state. Callendar acknowledged that further legislation may be necessary to address certain concerns raised by legislators, but expressed confidence in the progress made towards legalizing recreational marijuana in Ohio.
The implementation of adult-use cannabis sales in Ohio represents a significant milestone for the state, which has been navigating the complex landscape of marijuana legislation in recent months. The establishment of a dual licensing program for dispensaries and the setting of regulations for legal purchases demonstrate a commitment to meeting the demands of Ohioans while addressing concerns about black market activity. As the program moves forward, stakeholders will continue to work towards creating a safe and equitable environment for the sale and consumption of cannabis in the state. The successful implementation of recreational marijuana sales could have far-reaching implications for Ohio’s economy and public health, signaling a new era in drug policy for the state.
