Ohio Lawmakers Spearheading Attempt to Legalize Cannabis

The proposal would also expunge conviction records for previous cultivation and possession offenses.

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(Columbus, Oh.) – Two Ohio lawmakers are spearheading an effort to legalize recreational cannabis.

Jamie Callender and Casey Weintein are the primary sponsors of House Bill 168.

The bill, known as the Ohio Adult Use Act, would allow for the cultivation, purchase, and possession of cannabis by Ohioans over the age of 21. The legislation also allows for the expungement of conviction records for previous cultivation and possession offenses.

“It’s time for Ohio to act on this before we fall too much further behind our neighbors,” said Rep Weinstein. “Adult-use is good for our economy, good for our justice system, and the right thing to do. Ohioans are ready to legalize cannabis, and I am proud to offer this bipartisan bill to get it done.”

The bill would implement a 10 percent sales tax on adult-use cannabis products. Tax revenue would be distributed in part to supporting primary and secondary K-12 education, communities that host dispensaries, combatting chemical dependence and illegal drug trafficking, and the state General Revenue Fund.

Under the bill, Ohio’s Medical Marijuana Control Program would be extended to also regulate the non-medical cultivation, processing, sale, and adult-use of cannabis products. It would be renamed the Division of Marijuana Control.

As of this spring, 22 states and the District of Columbia have legalized adult-use marijuana, and 38 states allow for medial use.

The hope of the bill sponsors is to get the legislation on the November ballot.