Is Delta-8 THC Legal in Ohio? Your 2024 Guide
This hemp-derived cannabinoid has been gaining popularity nationwide, offering a milder psychoactive experience compared to traditional Delta-9 THC found in marijuana. If you’re curious about the legal status, effects, and availability of Delta-8 in Ohio, you’ve come to the right place. Let’s dive in!
The Legality of Delta-8 in Ohio
Thanks to the 2018 Farm Bill and Ohio’s Senate Bill 57, hemp and its derivatives (including Delta-8 THC) are legal in the state, as long as they contain less than 0.3% Delta-9 THC. This means that Ohioans aged 21 and above can freely purchase and use Delta-8 products without the need for a medical marijuana card.
However, it’s important to note that marijuana-derived Delta-8 is only accessible to qualified medical marijuana patients in Ohio. If you have a valid MMJ card, you can purchase a 90-day supply of marijuana-derived Delta-8 products at a time.
Explore our intertextual guide on getting a MMJ card
Buying Delta-8 in Ohio: Where to Find It
Now that you know Delta-8 is legal in Ohio, you might be wondering where to get your hands on some. Here are a few options:
- Local hemp shops and CBD stores
- Vape shops
- Some gas stations and convenience stores
- Online retailers (for home delivery)
When purchasing Delta-8 products, always look for reputable brands that provide third-party lab test results. This ensures the quality, purity, and potency of the product you’re buying.
Will Delta-8 Make You Fail a Drug Test?
One common concern among Delta-8 users is whether it will cause them to fail a drug test. The short answer is yes, it can. Most standard drug tests are designed to detect Delta-9 THC metabolites and cannot differentiate between Delta-8 and Delta-9. Therefore, consuming Delta-8 products can lead to a positive drug test result.
The detection window for Delta-8 varies depending on factors such as:
- Frequency of use
- Dosage
- Metabolism
- Type of drug test (urine, blood, hair, or saliva)
If you’re subject to regular drug testing, it’s best to avoid Delta-8 altogether or proceed with caution.
Traveling with Delta-8: What You Need to Know
While Delta-8 is legal in Ohio, it’s essential to be aware of the laws and regulations in your destination state or country when traveling. Some states have banned or restricted Delta-8, so it’s crucial to research the local laws before packing any Delta-8 products in your luggage.
If you’re traveling within Ohio or to another state where Delta-8 is legal, you should be fine carrying your products with you. However, it’s always a good idea to keep your Delta-8 in its original packaging and to carry any relevant lab test results or certificates of analysis.
The Future of Delta-8 in Ohio
As the popularity of Delta-8 THC continues to grow, serving as a milder alternative to traditional marijuana, its future in Ohio is under significant debate. The state governor is advocating for legislation to ban Delta-8 THC, citing concerns over its under-regulated status and the ease with which minors can obtain it. This movement toward stricter regulation comes despite testimonials from individuals who credit Delta-8 with substantial health benefits, including aiding in recovery from addiction and managing pain and anxiety.
Retailers, not necessarily affiliated with medical marijuana dispensaries but authorized to sell hemp products, underscore Delta-8’s therapeutic advantages. They operate within the legal framework established by the 2018 Farm Bill, which allows the sale of hemp products containing less than 0.3% THC. However, the governor’s call for regulation reflects a broader tension between state efforts to control cannabis products and the market’s drive to cater to consumer demands for alternative therapeutic options.
With potential legislative changes looming, including proposals to limit the sale of Delta-8 to licensed dispensaries, Ohio’s cannabis landscape may undergo significant transformation. This has sparked concern among both medical dispensaries and Delta-8 retailers about market competition and consumer access to beneficial hemp products. As Ohio navigates these regulatory waters, it’s crucial for residents interested in Delta-8 THC to remain informed about cannabis policy and regulatory changes within the state.
