Ohio Senate Republicans have introduced a bill aimed at tightening regulations on homegrown marijuana and delta-8 THC products. The proposal, Senate Bill 278, comes as the state prepares to launch recreational marijuana sales in the coming weeks.
Under the bill, only individuals 21 and older would be allowed to purchase delta-8 THC products, which are currently unregulated in Ohio. The products, which are synthesized from cannabidiol in hemp, can be found in many CBD stores, wellness shops, and gas stations.
The bill also seeks to crack down on public marijuana use, prohibiting smoking or vaping in public places where tobacco smoking is already banned. Additionally, individuals who grow marijuana at home would be required to submit an affidavit to the Division of Cannabis Control, pledging not to sell their crop to the public.
The proposal also aims to address the issue of illegal cultivation of marijuana at home, which would be punishable as a misdemeanor for the first offense and potentially escalate to a felony charge.
Senate Republicans argue that the bill is necessary to promote a free market and ensure that consumers have access to a safe and regulated supply of marijuana. They also plan to revamp the allocation of tax revenue, with an emphasis on funding mental health services, drug treatment, and law enforcement.
However, it remains unclear whether the bill will pass, particularly in the House, where leaders have expressed concerns about the proposal. Cannabis growers and sellers have also expressed frustration with the lack of regulation around delta-8 THC, but are wary of dramatic changes to the program approved by voters.
The Ohio Cannabis Coalition, which represents the state’s cannabis industry, has not commented on the proposal. However, Buckeye Relief CEO Andy Rayburn has expressed concerns about the lack of regulation around delta-8 THC, noting that it is freely available in hundreds of gas stations and convenience stores throughout the state.
