Recreational Marijuana in Ohio: Dispensaries Open Doors
Recreational marijuana sales have officially kicked off. Following months of regulatory adjustments and permit approvals, 98 marijuana dispensaries across the state were granted licenses to sell recreational cannabis beginning on August 6, 2024. Although medical marijuana has been available in Ohio for several years, this marks the first time residents aged 21 and over can legally purchase cannabis for recreational use.
Everything You Need To Know About Recreational Marijuana Legalization In Ohio
On November 7, 2023, Ohio voters passed Issue 2, making it the 24th state in the U.S. to legalize, regulate, and tax cannabis for adults aged 21 and over. This was a significant shift in the state's approach to cannabis, as the law allows for a range of cannabis-related activities, from home cultivation to purchasing products from licensed dispensaries. But, like any new law, it comes with a set of rules and restrictions you need to know.
How Did Marijuana Become Legal In Ohio?
Although Issue 2 was passed on November 7, 2023, the dispensaries did not open their doors until August 6, 2024. The passage of Issue 2 was the culmination of years of hard work and growing public support. The initiative established a regulated market, ensuring marijuana sales through licensed dispensaries rather than unregulated sources. The law was designed to provide a controlled environment where consumers could safely purchase cannabis products, with regulations in place to prevent underage use and to manage the market's impact on local communities.
Dispensaries Open Doors
With the new law in effect, dispensaries across Ohio have been preparing to meet the demand for recreational cannabis. The dispensaries are licensed and regulated by the state, ensuring they adhere to strict standards for product safety, labeling, and sales practices. Legal marijuana purchases will be taxed at 10%, with the revenue going towards:
Before You Buy Marijuana
Before heading to a dispensary, there are several things to consider. First, you must be at least 21 years old and have a valid government-issued ID to verify your age. You must also understand the legal limits for possession.
Many dispensaries only accept cash because of federal banking regulations, though many provide ATMs on-site for convenience. Some stores also offer alternative payment methods through third-party apps, allowing customers to pay using their phones.
Where Can You Buy Marijuana
Marijuana can be bought at licensed dispensaries throughout Ohio. These dispensaries are scattered across major cities and smaller towns, making it relatively easy for residents to find a convenient location. However, it's important to ensure that any dispensary you visit is licensed and compliant with state regulations to guarantee that you purchase from a legal and reputable source.
55 Ohio Towns Prohibit Recreational Sales
Not all communities in Ohio are ready to embrace recreational marijuana. Although no big cities like Cincinnati or Cleveland seem to be included in the 55, smaller cities and towns across the state have prohibited recreational cannabis vendors within their limits, and 55 municipalities have already chosen to implement such bans.
Where Dispensaries Can't Conduct Business
While dispensaries are now allowed to operate across Ohio, there are specific locations where they are not permitted to do business. Marijuana dispensaries cannot be located within 500 feet of schools or daycare centers to prevent potential exposure to minors. Additionally, local municipalities have the authority to set their own zoning regulations, which means some cities or counties may impose further restrictions on where dispensaries can be established.
What It Means for Employers
The legalization of recreational marijuana in Ohio does not change employers' rights to enforce drug-free workplace policies. Employers can continue to conduct drug tests, enforce zero-tolerance policies, and take disciplinary actions, including termination, if an employee tests positive for marijuana use. Employers should review and update their current drug testing policies if necessary to meet state and federal laws.
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