Ohio Senate finally approves expanded, immediate cannabis legalization

To everyone’s surprise, the Ohio Senate passed—just a few days before the voter-approved cannabis legalization was set to take effect—a revised bill that not only expands certain provisions but also introduces significant changes from the legislation originally proposed.

An Unexpected Turn of Events

The Ohio Senate is taking us on an emotional roller coaster. After initially, proposed to repeal key provisions Following the initiative approved by voters—which includes provisions such as home cultivation and a one-year delay in the sale of cannabis for adult use—the Senate Committee on General Affairs unanimously approved a revised bill, after the widespread outcry sparked by the GOP.

According to Republican Senator Rob McColley, as quoted by MarijuanaMoment, the negotiations that took place during the committee’s recess focused on eradicating the black market while maintaining access to information as approved by the people of Ohio. Committee Chair Michael Rulli acknowledged the massive public response, stating, «I think the people have spoken.».

The revised bill not only maintains the right to grow cannabis at home—though limited to 6 plants per household instead of 12—but also allows adults to purchase cannabis from existing dispensaries within 90 days, rather than having to wait a year.

A notable addition to the new bill is the provision calling for the automatic expungement of certain prior cannabis-related convictions, a measure applauded by advocates. Governor Mike DeWine has pledged to respect the will of the people, emphasizing the importance of a well-functioning, legalized market to counter the black market.

The amended bill also includes the following changes:

• The maximum number of cannabis stores that may be opened in the state is set at 350
• Existing medical cannabis dispensaries will be able to sell products for recreational use
• The permitted THC content for extracts will be capped at 50%, and that for flowers at 35%
• The excise tax on cannabis would be set at 15%, with additional taxes for local governments of up to 3%
• $15 million in tax revenue from cannabis will be allocated to the expungement of criminal records

Ohio thus becomes the 24th U.S. state to legalize cannabis for adult use. The law will take effect within 90 days of Governor DeWine’s signature.