Several Ohio residents have voiced their opposition to a proposed measure that seeks to alter the state’s cannabis regulations. Senate Bill 56, introduced last month by Senator Steve Huffman, has received pushback, with 40 people submitting testimony against it during a Senate General Government Committee hearing.
“This legislation is not about keeping consumers safe,” stated Don Holztrager of Chronic Wellness LLC. “It’s about enabling corporate monopolies, consolidating control, and stifling competition.”
Committee Chair Senator Kristina Roegner presented a revised version of the bill that eliminates sections related to taxation and revenue allocation. Initially, the legislation proposed increasing the tax on recreational cannabis to 15%, with all revenue directed to the state’s general fund. Currently, cannabis sales tax revenue is distributed among various programs, including 36% to the marijuana social equity and jobs fund, another 36% to the host community marijuana fund, 25% supports substance abuse and addiction programs, and the remaining 3% is allocated to the Tax Commissioner Fund and the cannabis control division.
If passed, the bill would significantly alter existing cannabis laws, including reducing the number of plants allowed for home cultivation from 12 to 6 and lowering the permitted THC potency in recreational cannabis products to 70%.
Other key provisions in the legislation include:
- Consolidating Ohio’s medical and recreational cannabis programs under the cannabis control division.
- Mandating that cannabis be transported in a vehicle’s trunk.
- Specifying that cannabis use is only allowed within private residences.
- Limiting the number of operational dispensaries to 350.
Several individuals who testified were particularly concerned about restrictions on home cultivation. Holztrager argued that the law should permit six plants per adult rather than per household. He also advocated for home growers to have opportunities to test their products, sell to dispensaries, and build independent brands, fostering small business growth.
Many critics of the measure argue that it reverses crucial aspects of the voter-approved measure. Gary Daniels, policy director at the ACLU of Ohio, criticized the proposed changes, stating, “This is not only a complete departure from the core policies of the initiative but also follows a decision by the General Assembly to forgo making any modifications to the ballot initiative’s language when given the opportunity.”
Some opponents expressed concern that the THC restrictions would push Ohio consumers to purchase cannabis in Michigan instead. Others argued that the legislation should include measures for expunging past cannabis-related convictions.
A committee vote on the bill was originally scheduled for Wednesday but was ultimately canceled.
Marijuana industry players like Aurora Cannabis Corp. (NASDAQ: ACB) (TSX: ACB) from different jurisdictions with legal marijuana markets may be unhappy that after voters made their choice known, some lawmakers are planning to modify the stipulations which were voted upon and approved.
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