Recreational marijuana sales are set to begin in Ohio by mid-June 2023 following the approval of new licensing rules by the Joint Committee on Agency Rule Review. The decision comes after a statute, initiated by voters and passed in December 2022, allowed Ohioans over 21 to grow and possess cannabis but did not permit its commercial sale, raising concerns about potential black-market activity.
Jim Canepa, the superintendent of the Division of Cannabis Control, announced that applications for dispensaries will be available by June 7, in line with the requirements of the new law. The rule allows existing medical marijuana dispensaries to apply for a dual license to sell recreational cannabis. A successful application will enable these dispensaries to sell both medical and non-medical cannabis products. The approval process for these applications, however, will vary depending on individual circumstances.
The updated cannabis law allows adults aged 21 and over to purchase and possess up to 2.5 ounces of cannabis and to cultivate up to six plants individually or 12 plants per household. It imposes a 10% tax on sales, with revenue allocated to cover administrative costs, addiction treatment, local municipalities with dispensaries, and social equity and job programs within the cannabis industry.
Tom Haren, a spokesperson for the Ohio Cannabis Coalition, confirmed that many of Ohio's existing dispensaries are expected to apply for the dual license, indicating readiness and anticipation among members for the rollout of adult-use sales.
This development follows debates in the Ohio legislature, where a last-minute Senate proposal sought to restrict home growing, reduce possession limits, and increase taxes, which was ultimately not passed by the House. Additional legislative measures, focusing on issues like child safety and marketing restrictions, are anticipated to further refine the framework established by the voter-approved statute.