Ohio Lawmakers Attempt to Weaken Voter-Approved Cannabis Law
On November 7, 2023, 57% of Ohio voters approved Issue 2, a law legalizing adult-use cannabis for individuals 21 and older. Sales began from existing medical dispensaries on August 6, 2024.
Now, lawmakers are attempting to roll back the voter-approved law. In February 2024, the Ohio Senate passed SB 56, which seeks to re-criminalize many cannabis-related activities, such as:
- Sharing cannabis with others
- Smoking or vaping in private yards
- Possessing cannabis from other states
In March 2025, Rep. Brian Stewart introduced a House version of the bill that also imposes strict potency caps and eliminates small growers. Additionally, Gov. DeWine has proposed doubling the cannabis excise tax from 10% to 20%.
A similar rollback attempt in late 2023 was defeated by public opposition, but with a new legislature and House Speaker, there is a real risk of losing hard-won cannabis freedoms and facing higher taxes.
Medical Cannabis and Decriminalization in Ohio
In 2016, Ohio lawmakers passed a bill to establish a medical cannabis program. For patient resources and forms, visit the Division of Cannabis Control’s website.
Ohio also passed a decriminalization law in 1975, which still applies to individuals under 21. For minors:
- Possession of less than 100 grams (3.5 ounces)
- Giving 20 grams or less to another person
- Growing less than 100 grams
Each is considered a minor misdemeanor with a $150 fine. While jail time is not imposed, driver’s licenses can be suspended for six months to five years.
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