Recreational marijuana ballot passes in Ohio

Ohio voters have passed Issue 2, legalizing recreational marijuana use six years after it was defeated at the polls. 

 

The final election results are in as 57% of voters said “yes”, making Ohio the 24th state to legalize recreational marijuana. 

 

The citizen-driven initiative, spearheaded by Regulate Marijuana Like Alcohol, will tax the manufacturing, sale and possession of recreational cannabis use for adults aged 21 and up. It will take effect 30 days after the election. 

 

In addition to the state sales tax, there will be a 10% tax on marijuana sales which will be used for funding new programs such as Cannabis and Social Equity Jobs, Host Community Cannabis, Substance Abuse and Addiction and Cannabis Control and Commission. 

 

These programs will pay for the cost of regulation and licensing for those who want to open dispensaries in their own communities and treat and educate those with addiction issues. 

 

Supporters of Issue 2 cite the benefits from tax revenue and safer regulation as their reasons, while voter Camryn Parker wants the drug decriminalized. 

 

“I believe that marijuana should be legalized. I don’t think people should be put in prison for it, and I think it’s not a harmful substance,” Parker said. “I think people should have the freedom to make their own decision and it shouldn’t be weaponized against them.” 

 

Opponents of the measure include Gov. Mike DeWine who is concerned that legalization will increase driving under the influence. Issue 2 addresses these concerns by prohibiting the use of marijuana in the vehicle. 

 

Since Issue 2 is a citizen-initiated statute and not a constitutional amendment, lawmakers have the power to change or repeal the law. 

 

In the meantime, Issue 2 will create the Division of Cannabis Control within the Ohio Department of Commerce. The division will have the responsibility of regulating marijuana sales and consumption as well as investigating and penalizing those who are not in compliance with the legislation. 

 

The Division of Cannabis Control will have nine months to devise their plan and should have the first-round of licenses ready to be distributed by next fall.