Ohio’s legislators, who made rapid changes earlier this year to marijuana policies, have now decided to take a break and revisit the issues after summer.
In committee, momentum stalls
Senate Bill 56—which included proposals to cap THC in extracts, limit public smoking, and cap dispensaries—has been shelved twice this month in the House Judiciary Committee. There are no scheduled votes before the session break.
“Push pause” until fall
Rep. Brian Stewart has confirmed this delay. He said that lawmakers would “take the summer, come back after break and possibly take another shot” at legislation.
What SB 56 would change
The law, if passed, would lower the maximum THC content in extracts for adult use from 90% to 30%, limit the number of dispensaries active at 400 and prohibit public smoking. The home-grown limit would be six plants for each person, and 12 per household.
Intent of the voter versus legislative changes
Supporters note that voters approved recreational marijuana in 2023, with 57% approval. Critics argue the new proposal aligns laws more closely with public expectations—particularly around high-potency products and youth access.
Steps to take when legislators return
With the summer recess underway, the fate of SB 56 and related measures—like combined reform with House Bill 160—will be decided when legislators reconvene. The debate over THC limit, public consumption and number of storefronts is still going on.