Two state representatives are preparing to introduce a marijuana legalization bill in Ohio.
Democratic state Reps. Casey Weinstein and Terrance Upchurch are preparing to introduce the new legislation in the next few weeks. They hope to pass a marijuana legalization bill in Ohio.
They hope to capitalize on economic opportunities for Ohio as well as address disproportionate imprisonment of Black people for non-violent offenses.
As a matter of fact, in the next few weeks, lawmakers will meet with stakeholders and marijuana business groups to begin crafting the legislation.
They will meet with representatives from the criminal justice reform groups and the Ohio Legislative Service Commission. The committee is nonpartisan, and they provide the Ohio General Assembly with drafting, research, budget, and fiscal analysis, training, and various other services.
According to Weinstein, current marijuana laws overwhelmingly harm communities of color. But there are also tremendous economic and tax benefits to crafting a legal industry.
He is optimistic about getting bipartisan support, considering the support similar legislation has received across the country. “I don’t want Ohio left behind,” Weinstein said.
Medical Cannabis
Medical cannabis is currently legal in Ohio for qualified patients and caregivers. Those who wish to utilize the medical cannabis program need to register with the Medical Marijuana Control Program. Otherwise, possession of fewer than 100 grams of cannabis is considered a minor misdemeanor.
In June 2016, Gov. John Kasich signed HB 523. As a result it created Ohio’s medical marijuana control program. Allowing the use of medical marijuana for qualified patients with a physician’s recommendation. The Department of Commerce is responsible for developing rules for licensing and regulating medical marijuana cultivators, processors, and testing labs.
Ohio Plans for Growth
Earlier this week Ohio released plans to double the number of medical marijuana dispensaries in the state by the end of next year. So, it is fitting to push for total legalization.
Currently, in Ohio, there are at least 92,772 patients with active registrations. As a result, there is a high demand for expanding the number of dispensaries and access to marijuana products.
Every two years the board considers expansion based on the state population, patient population, and the geographic distribution of patients.
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