Ohio weed legalization 2023, so far

dwkl · December 8, 2023

Ohio voters made their voices heard in November, passing Issue 2 and effectively legalizing marijuana for recreational use in the state.

Since the law came into effect on December 7th, there has been an overwhelming number of unanswered queries about the future direction of the new program while Ohio legislators explore potential revisions to certain provisions of the statute.

By passing Issue 2, Ohioans have decisively voted in favor of legalizing recreational marijuana for adults aged 21 and above. This historic decision now allows for the use, possession, and sale of cannabis, granting individuals the freedom to engage in responsible consumption within the bounds of the law.

Dispensaries will soon offer an extensive range of recreational products, encompassing flower, seeds, edibles, vapes, tinctures, oils, beverages, pills, and lotions.

In addition to the option of purchasing marijuana products for recreational use, adults who are 21 and above will have the freedom to cultivate up to six plants individually, or a maximum of 12 plants if living with multiple adults in the same household.

Ohio became the 24th state to pass a recreational marijuana law with the vote. It took effect Dec. 7, 2023.

Here’s the latest:

High level view: Presented here is a comprehensive breakdown of the vital aspects of the new law, encompassing eligibility criteria, restrictions on usage, and additional important details.

One important note: While it is currently permissible to possess it, purchasing it remains illegal (for now).
Another crucial consideration is that employers and landlords hold the authority to limit the usage of ganja.
It is important to note that federal law explicitly prohibits firearm owners from possessing this substance.
No smoking patio: Bars may not permit marijuana use on their patio, even if they allow smoking tobacco products. According to state regulations, bars and restaurants could face potential consequences to their liquor license if they allow the consumption of marijuana on their premises.

The fog of uncertainty

Even with the implementation of the law, local police departments are currently developing enforcement policies. Lawyers have pointed out that certain situations, such as traffic stops, pose challenges due to the absence of a breathalyzer for determining marijuana impairment.

Another concern emerges: Since possession is now legal, K-9 officers are no longer adequately trained to alert their handlers if they detect the scent of marijuana, which would typically grant probable cause to search the vehicle.

Businesses and Bans

Several local cities have implemented temporary and permanent bans on new marijuana-related businesses within their jurisdictions. This action has been taken by Springboro most recently, following the footsteps of Kettering, Centerville, Beavercreek, Troy, and others.

Policy improvement, or more control (probably the latter)

State legislators are actively pursuing measures to restrict the current law, aiming to limit the number of plants that can be cultivated, lower the THC content, increase tax rates, and impose usage restrictions. These proposed changes may be voted on during the course of this week.

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From the Akron Beacon Journal

Ohio lawmakers want to make changes to Issue 2, legal marijuana

Although the majority of voters decided to allow legal use of recreational marijuana, legislators — primarily GOP lawmakers — have been grappling with the law and what they want (or don’t want) to have go into effect.