Ohio is Accepting Recreational Cannabis Applications

Ohio started accepting applications for recreational marijuana sales this past Friday (June 7). This is a big step for Ohioans, who voted for legalization last November. This initial round of dual-use license (medical and recreational) applications is only open to Ohio’s medical marijuana cultivators, processors, testing laboratories and dispensaries. According to the Division of Cannabis Control (DCC) “applications from cultivators, processors and testing laboratories will receive priority” in order to “help ensure an efficient supply chain”.  Dispensaries will need to maintain an adequate supply of cannabis so that medical patients are able to access products.

Though there is no date set for sales to begin.  DCC Superintendent James Canepa says, current medical permit holders, who have already undergone the comprehensive checks set in place by the Medical Marijuana Control Program “are anticipated to have a much quicker turnaround for issuance of licenses over the summer.”  Since December Ohioan’s over 21 have been able to buy and possess 2.5 ounces of cannabis and grow up to six plants per individual or 12 plants per household. This round of applications will be a positive sign to consumers that recreational sales are in fact approaching. Cannabis will be taxed at 10% which will be distributed between admin costs, addiction treatment, municipalities with dispensaries, paying for social equity and supporting the cannabis industry. Stay tuned as this is developing.

If you have any questions, please contact one of the authors or a member of the Miller Johnson Cannabis practice group.