The law will allow adults over the age of 21 to purchase and possess up to 2.5 ounces of marijuana Ohio’s recreational marijuana law will take effect tomorrow, December 7, 2023. This means that adults 21 and older in Ohio will now be able to legally purchase and possess up to 2.5 ounces of marijuana and up to 15 grams of marijuana extract. They will also be able to grow up to six cannabis plants at home, or twelve plants in a household with multiple adults.

The law also allows for the establishment of licensed retail dispensaries where adults can purchase recreational marijuana products. The first dispensaries are expected to open in late 2024.

The legalization of recreational marijuana in Ohio is expected to have a significant impact on the state’s economy. It is estimated that the cannabis industry will create thousands of new jobs and generate hundreds of millions of dollars in tax revenue.

The law also has the potential to improve public health by reducing crime, providing tax revenue for important public services, and allowing people to access the potential health benefits of cannabis.

Key Provisions

• Legal Possession: Adults 21 and older can legally possess up to 2.5 ounces of marijuana and up to 15 grams of marijuana extract.
• Home Cultivation: Adults 21 and older can grow up to six cannabis plants at home, or twelve plants in a household with multiple adults.
• Retail Sales: Licensed retail dispensaries can sell recreational marijuana products to adults 21 and older. The first dispensaries are expected to open in late 2024.
• Taxation: Marijuana products will be subject to a 10% excise tax, with an additional 4% tax levied by local governments.
• Licensing: The Ohio Department of Commerce is responsible for licensing and regulating the cultivation, processing, and retail sale of recreational marijuana.

Potential Impacts

• Economic Impact: The legalization of recreational marijuana is expected to create thousands of new jobs and generate hundreds of millions of dollars in tax revenue.
• Public Health Impact: The law is expected to reduce crime, provide tax revenue for important public services, and allow people to access the potential health benefits of cannabis.
• Social Impact: The legalization of recreational marijuana is expected to lead to a change in public attitudes towards cannabis.

Implementation

The Ohio Department of Commerce is currently in the process of implementing the new law. This includes developing regulations, issuing licenses, and working with local governments to ensure compliance.

Additional Information

For more information about Ohio’s recreational marijuana law, please visit the following websites:

• Ohio Department of Commerce: https://www.medicalmarijuana.ohio.gov/
• Ohio Legislative Service Commission: https://www.legislature.ohio.gov/legislation/131/hb523