Ohio lawmakers are debating a new bill that would change how people can use marijuana and THC products across the state. The plan, called Senate Bill 56, creates new rules for public use, home use, THC drinks, and where these products can be sold.
Marijuana has been legal for adults in Ohio since voters approved Issue 2 in 2023. People can grow plants at home and buy products from licensed dispensaries. S.B. 56 would keep legalization in place but add new limits on how marijuana and THC products can be used, sold, and regulated.
One of the biggest changes deals with public use. The bill says people would not be allowed to smoke or vape marijuana in most public places. This includes parks, sidewalks, concerts, festivals, and parking lots. Use would be allowed only inside private homes or on private property when the owner gives permission.
The bill also changes how THC drinks and certain hemp products are sold. Right now, these products are available in gas stations, grocery stores, bars, and small shops. S.B. 56 would allow these stores to keep selling them until December 31, 2026. After that date, THC drinks and similar items would be sold only in licensed marijuana dispensaries. The bill also limits how much THC these drinks can contain.
The 10 percent tax on adult-use marijuana would stay in place. Some of this money would continue going to cities and towns that host dispensaries. The bill also gives people with old, low-level marijuana charges a chance to clear or seal their records.
Supporters say the plan improves safety and closes gaps in the current law. Critics say it removes parts of what voters approved. The bill has passed the Ohio House and now moves to the Ohio Senate for final consideration.
Lawmakers say they hope to settle the issue soon so residents and businesses know what the final rules will be.
What This Bill Means for Ohio Residents
- You could still grow marijuana at home, with a limit of six plants per adult and twelve per household.
- You would not be allowed to smoke or vape marijuana in most public places. Use would be allowed only in private homes or on private property with permission.
- Landlords could ban marijuana smoking or vaping inside rental homes and apartments.
- You could not legally bring marijuana from another state, even if you bought it where it is legal.
- Some marijuana products would have lower THC levels because the bill sets new limits.
- THC drinks and certain hemp products could remain in regular stores until December 31, 2026. After that, they would only be sold in licensed dispensaries.
- The state would keep the 10 percent tax on marijuana, and some of the money would go to communities that host dispensaries.
- People with old low-level marijuana charges could apply to clear or seal their records.