Local News

Ohio Passes Issue 2

Ohio also just became the 24th state to legalize recreational marijuana, but don't expect big changes yet.  Issue 2, approved by Ohio voters in Tuesday's elections, will allow adults 21 and older to buy, possess and grow marijuana, but it won't go into effect immediately. The measure is an initiated statute, which means it will become part of the Ohio Revised Code in 30 days.  And in the interim, Republican lawmakers are already calling for changes. Issue 2 will allow Ohioans age 21 and older to possess 2.5 ounces of cannabis in any form except extract and 15 grams of extract. They can also grow up to six plants individually and no more than 12 in a household with multiple adults.  The products will be taxed 10% on top of Ohio's sales tax and is scheduled to go into effect December 7th, But the Ohio Legislature could change any part of the law before, and even after it's enacted.  Additionally, The state has nine months to issue the first round of licenses to marijuana growers, processors and dispensaries. Those licenses will go to existing medical marijuana businesses and participants.

 

What's next for Indiana?

And with Ohio voters legalizing marijuana for recreational use, they join neighboring states Michigan and Illinois in decriminalizing cannabis.  Indiana, Kentucky, Wisconsin and Iowa reamin area states where the growing and use of marijuana is still against the law.