Starting in the second half of next week, the possession and cultivation of recreational marijuana will be legal in Ohio.
With 57% support Ohio voters approved Issue 2 last month, legalizing marijuana for recreational use. Starting Thursday, December 7, those 21 and older will be allowed to possess up to two and a half ounces of marijuana and up to 15 grams of marijuana concentrates, thanks to provisions in the initiative taking effect.
The new law will also allow for the personal cultivation of up to six marijuana plants at a private residence. If more than one adult lives at a residence, up to 12 plants can be grown.
The law mandates that the Division of Cannabis Control, a newly established branch of the Department of Commerce, issue marijuana business licenses within nine months, and they must issue at least 50 marijuana retail licenses.
Issue 2 taxes marijuana at 10%, with tax revenue split between multiple funds, including a fund for localities that allow marijuana stores, a fund for equity and job programs, and a fund for substance abuse and education programs.
This week legislation was filed in the Ohio Legislature to significantly redirect marijuana tax revenue, while allowing cities to place bans on marijuana use and cultivation. This is the second measure filed that would redirect marijuana tax revenue. House Bill 326, filed earlier this month by State Representative Cindy Abrams (R), would reallocate some marijuana tax revenue in order to cover the cost of annual peace officer training.
