Ohio Senate Passes Hemp Regulations, Amends Marijuana Legislation

Ohio has marked a significant shift in its cannabis regulations with the recent passage of Senate Bill 56, aimed at amending the state’s recreational marijuana and hemp laws. The legislation was approved by a vote of 22-7 in the Ohio Senate and has been sent to Governor Mike DeWine for final approval.

New Hemp Regulations and Changes to Marijuana Legislation

Senate Bill 56 introduces key changes to the existing laws governing hemp and recreational marijuana use in Ohio. Notably, the bill prohibits the sale of hemp products containing over 0.4 milligrams of total THC per container. Additionally, it bans the sale of synthetic cannabinoids outside licensed marijuana dispensaries.

Legal Hemp-Derived THC Beverages

The new regulations will allow the continued sale of beverages with up to five milligrams of hemp-derived THC until December 31, 2026. This provision provides a short-term reprieve for a popular product category amidst ongoing federal discussions regarding THC levels in hemp products.

Restrictions on Recreational Marijuana

• Bringing marijuana from other states into Ohio will be prohibited.
• Landlords will have the authority to ban marijuana use, including smoking and cultivation, on their properties.
• Marijuana must be stored in original containers, extending to all product types, not just edibles.
• Individuals are barred from cultivating marijuana on behalf of another person.
• If fired for marijuana use, individuals will be ineligible for state unemployment benefits.
• New penalties are introduced for drivers smoking or vaping cannabis, with potential jail time, fines, and probation.
• Transferring marijuana to individuals under 21 could result in heavy penalties, including jail time and fines.

These adjustments aim to balance public safety with the rights of those engaging with legalized cannabis and reflect concerns over potential dangers, particularly to children.

Concerns and Political Reactions

Republican leaders, including Senate President Rob McColley, hailed the legislation as a necessary measure to enhance safety and uphold existing laws. McColley emphasized the importance of regulating cannabis to address differing testing standards among states.

Despite some bipartisan support, Senate Democrats criticized the bill for potentially undermining the provisions of Issue 2, which legalized marijuana for adults aged 21 and older. They raised issues of discrimination against legal users and the increased difficulty of expunging marijuana-related offenses.

The Governor’s executive order, issued earlier in October, temporarily halted the sale of intoxicating hemp products, reflecting growing urgency in addressing these regulations. However, this order is currently paused due to a legal challenge.

If signed into law, these comprehensive changes could take effect as soon as March 2024, marking a notable chapter in Ohio’s evolving cannabis landscape.