Ohio Governor Mike DeWine is set to receive a bill that would ban intoxicating hemp products and restrict the transportation of marijuana purchased in other states. The Ohio Senate passed the bill, Senate Bill 56, with a 22-7 vote along party lines, and the Ohio House previously approved it. If signed by DeWine, the bill could take effect as early as March.
The legislation would prohibit the sale of intoxicating hemp products, which are currently available in some stores, and require them to be sold only through licensed marijuana dispensaries. This change is in line with recent federal updates.
Ohio Senate Majority Leader Rob McColley emphasized that the ban would take effect immediately, while some critics argue that the bill favors large marijuana businesses at the expense of smaller ones. For instance, Ohio Senate Minority Leader Nickie J. Antonio noted that the bill would benefit big marijuana businesses while leaving small business owners behind.
DeWine has been advocating for action on intoxicating hemp products for nearly two years. The bill also allows for the production, distribution, and sale of beverages containing up to 5 milligrams of THC until the end of 2026.
The bill’s passage marks a significant step in Ohio’s marijuana law reform, and DeWine’s signature would put the legislation into effect.
