Ohio Recreational Marijuana Sales Could Start by the 4th of July
Recreational marijuana sales in Ohio could start as early as two months from now. Everything appears to be on a quick fast-forward with the sales starting much sooner than initially anticipated. The accelerated timeline is due to regulatory efforts that have been focused on setting up the new adult-use market in the Midwest.
“Retailers with a license for recreational sales could be operational in Ohio by mid-June,” stated State Representative Jamie Callender in an interview with Cleveland TV station WEWS.
He also mentioned, “We anticipate the commencement of legal recreational marijuana sales definitely before the July 4th weekend.”
The July 4th holiday traditionally sees high sales volumes for cannabis retailers in states where marijuana is legal for recreational use. Originally, the projections suggested that recreational sales would not begin until later in the year, possibly autumn or winter – but retailers are chomping at the bit to cash in on the lucrative summer holiday season.
The push to an earlier start date is influenced by a deadlock within the state legislature, where lawmakers are struggling to reach a consensus on various issues.
The Ohio Department of Cannabis Control is making headway in its rulemaking efforts. Among the key points in its proposals, based on the stipulations of Issue 2, are:
- The opportunity for existing medical marijuana dispensaries to secure a dual-license, allowing them to cater to both medical patients and recreational consumers.
- A new 10% excise tax on recreational sales, on top of the existing 5.75% sales tax.
- The expansion of operations for Level 1 and Level 2 marijuana licensees in terms of cultivation and manufacturing.
- Authorization for residents to grow up to six plants at home, with a maximum of 12 plants per household.
- Additional conveniences such as drive-thru windows, online orders, curbside pickups, and self-service kiosks might be introduced, as reported by Cleveland TV station WCPO-TV. The operating hours could also be extended, allowing stores to stay open until 11 p.m. ET.
However, retailers will be restricted from setting up shop within 500 feet of schools, churches, libraries, playgrounds, or parks.
While Ohio has not yet implemented a social equity program, Issue 2 mandates that a portion of the cannabis tax revenues be allocated to support opportunities for historically disadvantaged applicants.
