Ohio Senate Bill 56: A Direct Attack on the Will of the People
Ohio voters made their voices heard in 2023, passing a citizens’ initiative to legalize and regulate cannabis with 57% of the vote. But now, the state legislature is attempting to dismantle that law with Senate Bill 56 (SB 56), introduced by Senator Steve Huffman. This bill has already passed the Ohio Senate and is now moving to the House, where it will be considered by the House Judiciary Committee before a full vote. If passed, it will head to the governor’s desk, and—after a 60-day waiting period—it would take effect, gutting key provisions of the voter-approved law.
SB 56 severely restricts the cannabis program that Ohioans voted for, disregarding the will of the people. SB56 Eliminates social equity programs designed to ensure fair access to licenses and participation in the industry. It removes Tier 3 dispensary licenses, reducing opportunities for small business owners and consolidating control in the hands of larger corporations.
This bill criminalizes cannabis sharing, turning what voters approved as legal, sharing our herb with other adult enthusiast, into a tightly restricted, punitive system with serious criminal charges for offenses. It limits home cultivation, making it illegal to grow more than six plants per household and increasing penalties for violations.
SB 56 also raises taxes, including a 15% excise tax on sales, making cannabis less affordable for patients and consumers.It imposes potency caps on cannabis products, restricting access for medical patients, leaving them with less beneficial options.
No Changes Yet, But Theses Bills Threaten the Peoples Law!
Despite confusion over whether any laws have already changed, nothing has been altered yet. However, SB 56 is one of three bills introduced to roll back the law Ohioans approved. This legislative effort represents a clear attempt to undermine the democratic process and the 57% of voters who supported legalization.
Time to Take Action: March 20, Ohioans are holding a Lobby Day Rally at the Statehouse. If you voted for recreational cannabis, if you believe in upholding the will of the people, and if you want to stop this attack on voter-approved legalization, come to the Ohio Statehouse on March 20th. Help us pack the house!
Contact your state representatives. Submit testimony. Spread the word. Ohioans voted for legalization—and now we must fight to protect it.
~ Saraquoia
SE Ohio Activist
Grassroots Ohioans
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