OHIO

SB 56 takes effect; hemp beverages banned

The legislature’s rewrite of voter-passed Issue 2 takes effect: dispensaries capped at 400, recriminalization of out-of-state and certain transport, and non-discrimination protections repealed. DeWine’s line-item veto leaves intoxicating hemp illegal. The Ohio Supreme Court rules against a brewery challenge the same day.

DeWine signs SB 56 with line-item vetoes

Gov. DeWine signs SB 56, the legislature’s revision of Issue 2, while vetoing a grace period that would have allowed intoxicating hemp beverages through end of 2026 and an expansion of disqualifying offenses for industry workers.

Legislature passes SB 56 on party lines

After months of House-Senate negotiation, the General Assembly passes SB 56, narrowing the voter-approved law and, for the first time, addressing intoxicating hemp products.

DeWine hemp executive order, then paused

Gov. DeWine issues a 90-day executive order banning intoxicating hemp products effective October 14; a Franklin County judge pauses the order after a legal challenge, foreshadowing the SB 56 hemp fight.

Adult-use retail sales begin

Recreational sales launch with 127 dual-licensed dispensaries open on day one, within the nine-month window Issue 2 set. First-year adult-use sales reach roughly $700M.

Issue 2 takes effect

Just 30 days after certification, possession of up to 2.5 oz and home cultivation of six plants become legal for adults 21+. The Division of Cannabis Control is tasked with standing up retail rules within nine months.