Ohio Senate Bill 56 Awaits Governor's Signature Amid Controversy
Ohio Senate Bill 56, which criminalizes out-of-state cannabis products and imposes new restrictions, awaits Governor Mike DeWine's signature amid widespread controversy
Key Points
- 1Ohio Senate Bill 56 awaits Governor's signature after Senate approval
- 2Bill would criminalize out-of-state cannabis products, even if legally purchased
- 3NORML criticizes the bill as undermining voter-approved cannabis legalization
- 4New restrictions include THC limits and caps on retail licenses
- 5Bill includes measures for expunging cannabis-related convictions
In a significant legislative move, the Ohio Senate has given its final approval to Senate Bill 56, which now awaits the signature of Governor Mike DeWine. This bill, once enacted, will make it illegal for Ohio residents to possess cannabis products purchased from outside the state, even if they were legally obtained from licensed dispensaries. The bill's approval on December 9, 2025, marks a pivotal moment in Ohio's cannabis policy, drawing sharp reactions from both supporters and opponents of cannabis legalization
The bill introduces several controversial measures, including the imposition of new restrictions on THC levels in cannabis products and a cap on the number of statewide retail licenses. It also repeals existing protections for adult consumers, potentially subjecting them to workplace and professional discrimination based on private cannabis use. The legislation aims to regulate hemp-derived products by restricting their sale to state-licensed dispensaries and includes provisions for expunging prior cannabis-related convictions
NORML, a leading advocacy group for cannabis reform, has voiced strong opposition to SB 56. Deputy Director Paul Armentano criticized the bill as undermining the democratic process, stating that it disregards the will of Ohio voters who supported cannabis legalization in 2023. Political Director Morgan Fox echoed these concerns, emphasizing that the bill is an affront to the millions of Ohioans who voted for Issue 2, the state's voter-approved cannabis legalization law
The implications of SB 56 are far-reaching, potentially impacting both consumers and the cannabis market in Ohio. By limiting home cultivation to 2.5 ounces and imposing felony penalties for exceeding six plants, the bill could deter personal cultivation efforts. Additionally, the redirection of cannabis tax revenues to municipalities may alter local economic dynamics, while the cap on licenses could restrict market growth
Despite the controversy, Ohio Senate President Rob McColley has emphasized the need for a regulatory framework around hemp and intoxicating hemp products. He acknowledges existing issues but remains optimistic about resolving them. As the bill awaits Governor DeWine's decision, its future could shape the trajectory of cannabis regulation in Ohio, setting a precedent for other states grappling with similar issues