Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost rejected a recreational cannabis legalization ballot measure on August 5. The proposal came from the Coalition to Regulate Marijuana Like Alcohol (CRMLA), who hoped to put the measure in front of the Ohio general assembly. From there, the assembly would have had four months to approve, reject, or amend the measure. Should that not happen in time, then the measure, with additional signatures, would have gone to the public for a vote. However, the group received a setback as Attorney General Yost rejected their proposal. 

Rejection

In a letter to CRMLA about the rejection, Attorney General Yost cited seven points of concern within the summary of the measure. Unlike other bills and measures proposed in other states, this one from CRMLA is classified as an initiated statute. It will change state law, but not the state’s constitution. The measure appears more like an entire chapter of laws added to the state’s law instead of a single law.

When measures are submitted, each organization submits the bill itself along with a summary. This is for the benefit of the general public. Then they can review the measure and fully understand the bill they would be supporting through their signature. The summary lacked specific information, according to the Attorney General, and the public would have to look further into the full bill to understand. The Attorney General specified each concern he found with the summary that led to his rejection. 

1. Lack of definition of the Division of Cannabis Control (Division)’s rule-making authority
2. Failure to explain the purpose of cannabis social equity and jobs program
3. Failure to explain any additional procedures and requirements the Division must follow to exercise authority
4. Limitation on cultivation noted but no limitation on possession of plants
5. Failure to identify additional protections for those who engage in permitted conduct under the potential new law
6. Lack of disclosure on the Division requirements to provide specific information to financial institutions
7. Failure to establish specific procedures for employers to establish in hiring and employment policies

The Attorney General also noted that there could be other concerns within the summary he did not note in his letter. But the seven concerns listed above became the main points he had regarding CRMLA’s measure.

Future

It isn’t uncommon for measures to be rejected their first time submitted. Once a measure receives approval from the Attorney General, it will move to the Ohio Ballot Board, which is led by the Secretary of State. A total of 132,887 signatures are required to bring the measure before the Ohio General Assembly. Again, lawmakers will have four months to decide on the measure. Should they fail to make a decision, then an additional 132,887 signatures would bring the measure to the general election ballot.

Two state representatives recently submitted a bill to legalize recreational cannabis. This long awaited and unique measure has become highly anticipated. It received heavy support from activists to potentially bring recreational cannabis to citizens. The bill has yet to receive a number or submitted for debate in separate committees. As more information becomes available, we will update you with the latest.

Make sure to check back for more cannabis and hemp related news.