In November 2023, Ohio voters approved Issue 2, legalizing recreational marijuana for adults aged 21 and over. This measure permitted possession of up to 2.5 ounces of cannabis and 15 grams of concentrate, allowed home cultivation of up to six plants per person (with a maximum of 12 per residence), and established a 10% sales tax on cannabis products. The tax revenue was designated for social equity and jobs programs (36%), communities hosting dispensaries (36%), education and substance abuse programs (25%), and administrative costs (3%).

However, recent legislative developments indicate potential changes to this framework. On January 29, 2025, State Senator Steve Huffman introduced Senate Bill 56, proposing significant revisions to the existing recreational marijuana laws. The key provisions of SB 56 include:

• Increased Taxation: Raising the excise tax on adult-use cannabis products from 10% to 15%, with all revenue directed to the state’s General Revenue Fund.
• Home Cultivation Limits: Reducing the number of plants individuals can grow at home from 12 to 6.
• THC Concentration Caps: Lowering the maximum allowable THC levels in adult-use cannabis products from 90% to 70%.
• Public Consumption Restrictions: Prohibiting smoking and vaping of cannabis in public spaces, limiting consumption to private residences.
• Dispensary Regulations: Capping the number of dispensaries statewide at 350 and requiring them to serve both medical and recreational users.
• Transportation Rules: Mandating that adult-use marijuana and related paraphernalia in vehicles be stored in the trunk or behind the back row of seats.

Additionally, SB 56 proposes eliminating the social equity and jobs program, which was designed to promote diversity in the marijuana industry and support individuals affected by prior marijuana prohibitions.

Proponents of SB 56, including Senate President Rob McColley, argue that the increased tax revenue is necessary to fund addiction services and law enforcement, addressing societal costs associated with marijuana legalization.

Opponents, such as Ariane Kirkpatrick, CEO of Mavuno of Ohio, express concerns that the proposed changes undermine the will of the voters and could negatively impact businesses and social equity initiatives.

As of now, SB 56 is undergoing hearings in the Senate General Government Committee. If it progresses, the bill could be presented on the Senate floor as early as February 2025.

These developments suggest that Ohio’s recreational marijuana laws may undergo significant modifications in 2025, reflecting ongoing debates between legislative intentions and voter-approved measures.