In Ohio, voters are gearing up for an upcoming election where they will cast their votes on the issue of legalizing recreational marijuana. However, it is worth noting that the Ohio Prosecuting Attorneys Association and Protect Ohio Workers and Families have expressed their opposition to this proposed legalization.
The state Department of Commerce has announced that the Division of Cannabis Control will assume crucial responsibilities pertaining to licensing, testing, product standards, and various other regulations within the cannabis industry.
Legalization of Recreational Marijuana in Ohio
The supporters of recreational marijuana claimed that the legalization would reclaim tax revenue to states such as Michigan, where marijuana is legal. The legalization would also take power from illegal drug markets through government regulation.
According to ABC News, issue 2 on the Nov. 7 ballot claimed that adults aged 21 and over have access to buy up to 2.5 ounces (71 grams) of cannabis and 15 grams (about a half-ounce) of extract and to grow up to six plants per individual through a government program.
"We're taking money away from drug dealers and Michigan dispensary owners and putting it back into the pockets of our local governments," Tom Haren, spokesperson for the pro-legalization campaign Regulate Marijuana Like Alcohol, said.
Furthermore, there would be a 10% tax on purchases, with those proceeds going toward administrative costs and addiction treatment in the state and municipalities holding dispensaries.
The legalization would create a social equity program and cause a financial boost to people who want to start their cannabis and marijuana business.
People who want to start a business must meet specific criteria, wherein they or a family member would need to have had a past run-in with the law for marijuana and be a part of an underprivileged group based on race, gender, disability, or economic considerations.
The opponents said that the marijuana industry would benefit from one-third of the revenue from the 10% tax than to taxpayers. Ohio Treasurer Robert Sprague also argued that the 10% tax would not be enough for addiction treatment and administration.
The Ohio Prosecuting Attorneys Association said that the legalization would increase traffic and workforce accidents and substance abuse among state residents.
Marijuana-Related Incidents in Ohio
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported that 54% of injured or killed drivers had drugs or alcohol in their systems, with tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), an active ingredient in marijuana.
The report found over 7,000 cases from seven different hospitals around Ohio from 2019 to 2021. However, the authors of the study advised that it was not indicative of drivers nationwide, especially when tracking data on marijuana use and traffic accidents was still so new.
The lawmakers have four months to pass the legalization under state law. If the legalization succeeds, Ohio will become the 24th state to legalize recreational marijuana for adult use.
The supporters argued that the legalization would have a positive impact socially and financially on the state.
