Legalize and Repair

While current drug policy criminalizes addiction and enforcement often targets low-income communities and people of color, the ACLU of Ohio works for fair and sensible drug policies that will support safe and healthy communities across Ohio.

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Legalize and Repair: Cannabis Use in Ohio

Overview

In November 2023, Ohio voters overwhelmingly approved a measure legalizing recreational cannabis use, known at the time as Issue 2. Following the election, the Division of Cannabis Control, which “regulates medical marijuana cultivators, processors, dispensaries, and testing laboratories,” began the rulemaking process. During this time, the Division set up the administrative structure and regulations for the adult-use industry, creating the framework for the licenses needed to sell cannabis.

Ten months later, on August 6, 2024, recreational sales officially began in Ohio, and adults 21 years and older are currently allowed to possess and consume cannabis in accordance with the parameters of the law. However, the Ohio General Assembly can change the laws regarding adult-use cannabis at any time but must do so through the legislative process.

Next Steps

At the ACLU of Ohio, we want to ensure all Ohioans understand the law, its limitations, and its potential. We know that the legalization of cannabis for adult use in our state shows progress. However, we recognize the harms – many of them ongoing – of the failed War on Drugs, disproportionately falling on our Black and brown communities, and all those who have been harmed by cannabis convictions. Ohio must embrace this new reality and work to erase the negative impact of past convictions. This is not the final destination, but a critical step in the right direction toward drug policy reform.

Take Action

Tell Ohio Lawmakers to protect our existing marijuana laws and to protect the Social Equity and Jobs Program.

Resources

Know Your Rights: Ohio Marijuana Legalization Laws

Blog: What’s the Status of Adult-Use Cannabis in Ohio

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News & Commentary
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House Bill 88 – Opponent Testimony

The ACLU of Ohio believes everyone here is sincere about minimizing the horrific effects of addiction in our state. But House Bill 88 offers more of the failed status quo.
News & Commentary
Graphic reading Constitutional Amendment vs. Citizen Initiated Statute with words over a blue and white background

Adult-Use Cannabis: The Case Against Initiated Statutes 

ACLU of Ohio's Deputy Policy Director, Collin Marozzi, explains the difference between a constitutional amendment and an initiated statute. And why it matters.
News & Commentary
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Senate Bill 56 – Opponent Testimony

Ohio voters overwhelmingly supported Issue 2. In doing so, they endorsed policies regarding adult-use cannabis. SB 56 now proposes to roll back these changes, in whole or in part, in an affront to those same voters.
Court Case
Feb 12, 2021

State v. Foreman (amicus)

Under the prohibitions against cruel and unusual punishment in the Eighth Amendment and Article I § 9 of the Ohio Constitution, it is unlawful to prosecute a person for the status or condition of being a “drug user.” Yet, Kelly Foreman was convicted of felony possession for her status as a drug user