Ohio Senate Leader Seeks Major Changes to Voter-Approved Marijuana Law
COLUMBUS, Ohio — While Ohio voters decisively approved recreational marijuana legalization in 2023, Senate President Matt Huffman has voiced intentions to overhaul the policy. Despite nearly $200 million in cannabis sales within the first four months of legalization, concerns are emerging as Huffman criticizes the initiative for having "fundamental flaws."
Passed under Issue 2, the current law allows adults aged 21 and older to consume marijuana and grow up to 12 plants per household. However, Huffman contends that the legislation requires significant modifications, including restrictions on THC content and a ban on most vaping products. His proposed changes would limit personal home cultivation from 12 plants to just six.
"This is really about preventing illicit market growth," Huffman stated, alleging that such high plant counts were indicative of people looking to resell cannabis. Despite these claims, supporters of the existing law, such as Rep. Jamie Callender, argue against these reforms and emphasize the need to respect voter choices.
As Huffman prepares to ascend to the House Speaker role in January, the potential for his changes becomes more likely. However, current leadership displays a resistance to altering a policy that’s only recently been implemented. House Speaker Jason Stephens has declared, “As we’ve said, this is the People’s House, and we will continue to respect the will of the voters.”
Additionally, lawmakers are discussing regulations around Delta 8, a hemp derivative, with proposals ranging from complete bans to age restrictions similar to tobacco and alcohol. As the debate continues, stakeholders await further developments, wary of changes to the legal cannabis landscape in Ohio.
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