Starting this week, Ohio has made the use of recreational marijuana legal. This makes Ohio the 24th state in the U.S. to do so. It happened only one month after voters approved Issue 2 in the November election. Before the new law becomes official on Thursday, December 7th, here are some important things you should know…
When can I buy marijuana in Ohio for recreational use?
The law will start on Thursday, allowing people who are 21 and older to legally buy it. However, you won’t be able to buy any this week because the Division of Cannabis Control is still working on creating a process for sellers to get a license. Then, it is unlikely that the licenses will be issued until next fall (more information on that is provided below).
What can you start doing on Thursday?
If Issue 2 is passed, adults who are 21 and older will be allowed to purchase and have up to 2.5 ounces of cannabis. They will also be able to grow up to six plants at home, or up to 12 plants if there are two adults living in the same home. A 10% tax will be added to purchases. The money from the tax will be used for administrative costs, addiction treatment, municipalities with dispensaries, and programs that promote social equity and create jobs.
Why will it take so long for licenses?
Issue 2, being an initiated statute, allows lawmakers in Ohio to make changes to the law by modifying the Ohio Revised Code. Some people are working to make changes, like stopping advertisements that are aimed at children. They are currently working on licenses, specifically determining who would be eligible for a license. This includes considering factors such as race, gender, ethnicity, and economic status as part of the social equity program.
Also Read: One Ohio City Breaks the Record of Highest Weed Consumption
What other changes could be made to the law?
Another option is to let specific local governments prohibit marijuana dispensaries and the cultivation of cannabis plants at home. These activities were previously safeguarded by Issue 2. Some people are discussing the idea of changing how taxes are distributed by adding a new category of revenue. This new revenue would be used to fund training for law enforcement related to cannabis.
The City of Lakewood has put a temporary stop on giving permits to businesses that want to sell recreational cannabis in Lakewood. This will last until at least July 31, 2024.
“We are not doing this to go against the will of the people who voted for this,” says Lakewood Council President John Litten. “We want to take some time as a city to understand the requirements of the state, the rules for municipalities, and how the tax structure will work.”
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