it was already approved
Ohio Finally Gets Hip with Adult-Use Cannabis Sales Plan
Ohio, the 24th state to legalize adult-use cannabis, is finally making moves to implement a plan for legal sales. After voters approved Issue 2 in November 2023, the state is now allowing adults to possess up to 2.5 ounces of cannabis and grow up to six plants at home. And let’s not forget the 10% tax on all purchases, because nothing in life is free, right?
But wait, there’s more. The Ohio Joint Committee on Agency Rule Review (JCARR) recently met to discuss and approve new rules that will allow medical cannabis dispensaries to sell non-medical cannabis products. This means that for the first time, there will be a legal place to purchase cannabis in Ohio.
According to the Ohio Division of Cannabis Control (DCC) superintendent, Jim Canepa, applications for these dispensaries will be available by June 7. Canepa also reassured eager consumers that the state is following the timeline set by the initiated statute, but with a “small but mighty” staff, things may take a little longer than expected.
The Ohio Cannabis Coalition (OCC) is also excited about the progress being made. According to spokesperson Tom Haren, the DCC has been working tirelessly to meet the various deadlines for sales. And with the recent approval of rules allowing medical dispensaries to sell adult-use products, the OCC team is ready to roll out the green carpet for consumers.
But let’s not forget about the slow and steady approach that Ohio is taking. Rep. Jamie Callender, who initially pushed for a delay in implementing a plan for legal sales, is pleased with the controlled pace. And after Gov. Mike DeWine called for immediate amendments to the law, the Senate made changes such as prohibiting home cultivation and increasing taxes. However, these changes were not put into effect due to the House adjourning before a vote could be made. Looks like the House is standing by the “will of the people” and not letting the Senate rain on their cannabis parade.
