Ohio’s cannabis landscape continues to evolve, with significant changes taking place for both medical and recreational marijuana. In November 2023, Ohio voters approved Issue 2, making it the 24th state to legalize adult-use cannabis. The new law, which took effect on December 7, 2023, allows adults 21 and older to purchase, possess, and cultivate limited amounts of cannabis for personal use.
Ohio’s medical marijuana program, established in 2016 through House Bill 523, remains in place, allowing qualified patients and caregivers to possess and use cannabis for approved medical conditions. The program is regulated by the Ohio Department of Commerce and the State of Ohio Board of Pharmacy, ensuring safe and effective access to medical marijuana treatments.
To be eligible for a medical marijuana card in Ohio, patients must be diagnosed with one or more of the following qualifying medical conditions:
Patients must receive a recommendation from a certified medical marijuana doctor to qualify for the program. Telemedicine consultations are permitted for obtaining a medical marijuana recommendation in Ohio, and Dr.Weedy offers a convenient and accessible solution for patients seeking to join the state’s medical marijuana program. By utilizing our telemedicine platform, patients can connect with licensed medical marijuana doctors from the comfort of their own homes, ensuring a safe and efficient process for obtaining the necessary recommendation.
Explore our intertextual guide on getting a MMJ card
Under Ohio law, qualified patients and primary caregivers with state-issued identification cards are permitted to possess a 90-day supply of medical marijuana for personal use. However, smoking medical cannabis is not allowed. Only specific forms of medical marijuana are permitted, including vaporizable forms, tinctures, patches, edibles, topical ointments, and oils. Patients and caregivers must adhere to these possession limits and permitted forms to maintain legal compliance and promote responsible use.
Current Law on Growing Marijuana in Ohio 2024:
Read more about marijuana cultivation in Ohio
As the state prepares for the launch of its adult-use cannabis program, the newly-formed Ohio Division of Cannabis Control (DCC), led by Superintendent Jim Canepa, is working to establish rules and regulations that prioritize patient access, product safety, and social equity.
The DCC has released draft rules for public comment, outlining a two-phase approach to licensing. The first phase involves converting existing medical marijuana facilities into dual-use operations, allowing them to serve both medical and adult-use customers. The second phase includes a lottery-based dispensary license process for qualifying entities.
While the adult-use cannabis law is in effect, the Ohio legislature continues to debate potential changes to the program. The Senate has passed a bill that would repeal and replace the voter-approved initiative, while the House is considering minor amendments to the existing statute. Key points of discussion include taxation, home grow provisions, and the allocation of adult-use licenses to current medical marijuana businesses.
To prevent the growth of an illicit market and ensure a smooth transition, Governor Mike DeWine is considering an emergency rule that would allow adult-use sales to begin at existing medical dispensaries before the complete set of regulations for the recreational program are finalized.
As Ohio navigates the challenges of implementing a new adult-use cannabis program alongside its existing medical marijuana system, stakeholders are working to create a framework that balances the will of the voters with the need for responsible regulation and oversight.
The state aims to establish a professional, accountable, and socially equitable cannabis industry that prioritizes patient access, product safety, and responsible use. By staying informed about the latest developments in Ohio’s marijuana laws and regulations, patients, consumers, and businesses can effectively participate in this rapidly-evolving landscape.
