The legalization of recreational marijuana in Ohio becomes effective this Thursday. This development has stirred vigorous discussions in Columbus as the legislators rush to make amendments to Issue 2, a law that received a 57% to 43% backing in the previous November elections.
The General Assembly is in a race against time to make alterations to the law before it becomes operational at the strike of midnight on Thursday morning. This Tuesday, a proposal from the Republican Senate that could bring about significant changes was fully deliberated, setting the stage for a crucial day on Wednesday.
Governor Mike DeWine is optimistic that the legislators will be able to meet the deadline. He stressed the importance of making all necessary changes before the law is implemented, to avoid confusion and ensure clarity for the public on the regulations.
The Senate's version of the law would prohibit the cultivation of marijuana at home, increase the tax rate from 10% to 15%, and largely alter where the tax revenue would be directed.
The initial Issue 2 permits growing six plants per individual or 12 per household at home and channels part of the tax income to a fresh social equity and job fund.
The Senate's version that was argued over on Tuesday in the general government committee would direct the funds to law enforcement and the state's general fund.
The House's proposals are yet to be submitted and are expected to be introduced on Wednesday. It seems that the emphasis will be on allowing those with past marijuana-related convictions to clear their criminal records, following its legalization.
During Tuesday’s committee meeting, lawmakers heard from opponents of marijuana sales.
An executive from Ohio's medical marijuana industry cautioned about the potential effects if the Senate's changes are approved. He expressed concerns that it could create a program with products that people may not want to buy due to unaffordable pricing, leading them to seek alternative sources.
Here's a snapshot of what to expect as the Thursday deadline draws near:
The likelihood of this happening remains uncertain, given the considerable disparities between the two houses at this stage.
One contentious issue under debate is the quantity of cannabis an individual can possess, particularly when driving.
Issue 2 did not set any explicit limits. However, the Senate's version would limit quantities to about two to three days' usage and mandate it be stored in its packaging in the vehicle's trunk.
Another contentious point is whether the new law permits someone who legally purchases marijuana in Michigan to bring it into Ohio.
The answer is negative, as it's still prohibited under federal law. However, once in Ohio, it will be legal to possess and use under state law.
Meanwhile, Kentucky's General Assembly sanctioned the use of medical marijuana this spring. This law will become effective on the first day of the new year. The state's Medical Cannabis Program is still in the process of setting up licenses for growers and dispensaries.
The General Assembly is in a race against time to make alterations to the law before it becomes operational at the strike of midnight on Thursday morning. This Tuesday, a proposal from the Republican Senate that could bring about significant changes was fully deliberated, setting the stage for a crucial day on Wednesday.
Governor Mike DeWine is optimistic that the legislators will be able to meet the deadline. He stressed the importance of making all necessary changes before the law is implemented, to avoid confusion and ensure clarity for the public on the regulations.
The Senate's version of the law would prohibit the cultivation of marijuana at home, increase the tax rate from 10% to 15%, and largely alter where the tax revenue would be directed.
The initial Issue 2 permits growing six plants per individual or 12 per household at home and channels part of the tax income to a fresh social equity and job fund.
The Senate's version that was argued over on Tuesday in the general government committee would direct the funds to law enforcement and the state's general fund.
The House's proposals are yet to be submitted and are expected to be introduced on Wednesday. It seems that the emphasis will be on allowing those with past marijuana-related convictions to clear their criminal records, following its legalization.
During Tuesday’s committee meeting, lawmakers heard from opponents of marijuana sales.
An executive from Ohio's medical marijuana industry cautioned about the potential effects if the Senate's changes are approved. He expressed concerns that it could create a program with products that people may not want to buy due to unaffordable pricing, leading them to seek alternative sources.
Here's a snapshot of what to expect as the Thursday deadline draws near:
- The proposed amendments from the House will be introduced at the finance committee meeting at the Ohio Statehouse on Wednesday at 11 a.m.
- The full Senate is expected to discuss its version, assuming it gets approval from the committee at 1:30 p.m. on Wednesday.
- The full house convenes at 2 p.m.
- Should both bills pass, a conference committee would meet to reconcile the differences before midnight, when the original Issue 2 takes effect.
- A two-thirds majority is required for the passage of the emergency provision, which would make it law immediately, overriding the original Issue 2.
The likelihood of this happening remains uncertain, given the considerable disparities between the two houses at this stage.
One contentious issue under debate is the quantity of cannabis an individual can possess, particularly when driving.
Issue 2 did not set any explicit limits. However, the Senate's version would limit quantities to about two to three days' usage and mandate it be stored in its packaging in the vehicle's trunk.
Another contentious point is whether the new law permits someone who legally purchases marijuana in Michigan to bring it into Ohio.
The answer is negative, as it's still prohibited under federal law. However, once in Ohio, it will be legal to possess and use under state law.
Meanwhile, Kentucky's General Assembly sanctioned the use of medical marijuana this spring. This law will become effective on the first day of the new year. The state's Medical Cannabis Program is still in the process of setting up licenses for growers and dispensaries.
