“High Times in Ohio: A Puff of Freedom as Recreational Marijuana Takes Center Stage!”

Joe Lyons • December 7, 2023

Well, recreational marijuana is now legal in Ohio, so today is stoners’ early Christmas present, I guess. It’s a free-for-all and a big win for Ohio! (Reads in Sarcastic Tone)

Cleveland Mayor Justin M. Bibb even issued a press release, announcing that the city has revamped its Drug and Alcohol Testing policy to eliminate outdated language that hindered hiring efforts, specifically regarding pre-employment marijuana testing.

Mayor Bibb expressed his support for the legalization, acknowledging the detrimental effects that criminalization had on education, housing, and employment. With Ohioans having made their voices heard loud and clear last month through their approval of Issue 2, the state is now on a path towards leaving the punitive effects of marijuana criminalization behind. Cleveland’s updated policies are another step towards marijuana reform and improving their HR practices.

However, even though adults aged 21 and older can now legally possess up to 2.5 ounces of cannabis and 15 grams of extracts or edibles, buying marijuana in Ohio won’t be possible just yet. Legal sales will likely not begin until late next summer or fall once lawmakers and Governor DeWine approve the sale of recreational marijuana at medical dispensaries.

The Division of Cannabis Control will need time to establish rules on licensing, product standards, packaging, and more. Additionally, marijuana growers, processors, and dispensaries must wait for license applications to be made available within the next six months.

The state then has nine months to issue the first round of licenses, which will prioritize existing medical marijuana businesses and eligible operators under the social equity program.

On the bright side, individuals in Ohio can now grow their own marijuana.

The law allows adults to individually grow up to six plants, with a maximum of 12 plants in a household with multiple adults, as long as the cultivation takes place in a secure and enclosed space. However, landlords have the right to prohibit tenants from growing marijuana if they include the ban in the lease agreement.

It’s important to note that despite the legalization, driving under the influence of marijuana is still strictly prohibited. Whether you’re behind the wheel of a car, on a bike, boat, or airplane, the law stands firm – no high driving. Passengers are also barred from smoking or vaping in the vehicle.

So while Ohio celebrates its newfound marijuana freedom, it’s essential to remain mindful of the rules and the potential consequences of breaking them.