Is Weed Legal in Ohio? Ohioans Vote Yes to Recreational Marijuanas!

Is Weed Legal in Ohio?

On November 8, 2023, Ohio voters passed Issue 2, legalizing recreational marijuana for adults 21 and older. However, recreational marijuana is not yet legally available for purchase or public use in the state.

When Will Recreational Marijuana Be Legal in Ohio?

While Issue 2 was passed on November 8th, recreational marijuana won’t become fully legal in Ohio until around December 7, 2023. This is because the measure takes effect 30 days after the election results are certified.

However, this doesn’t mean dispensaries will immediately start selling recreational weed on December 7th. The state will need time to establish rules, regulations and licensing procedures for recreational marijuana. Dispensaries will also need time to prepare for the new recreational market.

Experts estimate it could take anywhere from 6 months to a year before recreational marijuana sales officially begin in Ohio. The Ohio Division of Marijuana Control will provide more definitive timelines soon.

What Does This Mean for Medical Cannabis in Ohio?

The passage of Issue 2 legalizing recreational marijuana will not negatively impact Ohio’s existing medical marijuana program. Dispensaries will be licensed separately for medical and recreational sales.

Medical marijuana patients will still have access to the products they need. In fact, legalization could positively benefit medical patients in several ways:

• Increased product variety and availability
• Potentially lower prices with a larger market
• Reduced stigma for medical marijuana use

Can You Still Get a Medical Marijuana Card in Ohio?

Yes, Issue 2 does not change the medical marijuana program. Patients can still receive a medical card with a qualifying condition. There are even benefits to keeping an active medical card, including:

• No 10% recreational marijuana tax
• Higher possession limits
• Access to medical-only dispensary inventory
• Potential protections against discrimination

Medical marijuana patients should consider renewing their cards even with legalization. Cards are valid for up to 3 years. We actually wrote up a blog about the benefits of keeping your Ohio medical marijuanas card if you want to catch up on the perks we know of (so far)!

Need Help Getting or Renewing a Medical Marijuanas Card?

Need assistance acquiring or renewing your medical marijuana card in Ohio? Look no further! Visit Bloom Ohio for expert guidance and seamless support in applying for your Ohio Medical Marijuana Card. Our online services make it easy to obtain or renew your card from the comfort of your home. Trust Bloom Ohio to simplify the process and ensure you get the care you need.

While Waiting for Rec, Why Not Shop at Bloom Medicinals in Ohio?

Get the Best Ohio Medical Marijuanas Strains

Medical Card patients get the medical benefits of cannabis right now, so while we wait for recreational to start, stop on by and say hi! Bloom’s dispensary locations in Akron, Columbus, Maumee, Painesville, and Seven Mile, are fully stocked with premium flower and cannabis products for your Medical Marijuana needs. 

Ohio Bloom Dispensaries:

• Bloom – Akron Medical Marijuana Menu
• Bloom – Columbus Medical Marijuana Menu
• Bloom – Maumee Medical Marijuana Menu
• Bloom – Painesville Medical Marijuana Menu
• Bloom – Seven Mile Medical Marijuana Menu