New Ohio Law Going Into Effect in March — What It Means for Adult-Use Marijuana Users

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A big change is coming soon to Ohio’s marijuana laws. In December 2025, Governor Mike DeWine signed a new law that changes parts of the state’s adult-use marijuana system. This law is set to go into effect in March of this year.

Even though Ohio voters approved adult-use marijuana in 2023, lawmakers have now passed a bill that alters how the law works in several important ways. Here’s what Ohioans need to know.

New Rules for Marijuana and Hemp Products

Senate Bill 56 makes big changes to marijuana and intoxicating hemp rules in Ohio.

The bill bans intoxicating hemp products from being sold outside licensed marijuana dispensaries. This closes the old loophole where hemp products with THC could be sold in gas stations, grocery stores, or smoke shops.

These changes are meant to tighten up how marijuana and hemp products are regulated and sold in the state.

THC-Infused Drinks Were Blocked by the Governor

Senate Bill 56 changes where THC-infused drinks can be sold in Ohio.

Once Senate Bill 56 takes effect in mid-to-late March 2026, THC-infused drinks will no longer be allowed at regular stores like bars, grocery stores, gas stations, or smoke shops. These drinks will only be allowed for sale at licensed marijuana dispensaries.

This change keeps THC-infused drinks inside Ohio’s regulated marijuana system instead of being sold at unregulated locations. It also helps the state better control how these products are made, labeled, and sold. Supporters say this approach is meant to improve safety and oversight.

Stricter Rules on Marijuana Possession and Use

Senate Bill 56 also changes how marijuana can be used and transported:

• It makes it illegal to bring marijuana purchased in another state back into Ohio, even if it is legal there.

• Marijuana purchased from Ohio dispensaries must stay in its original packaging when being transported.

• The bill does not change the 10% tax on adult-use marijuana sales. That tax rate remains the same as what was originally approved by voters.

• The bill will keep the existing statewide limit of 400 licensed marijuana dispensaries, rather than increasing the number of locations.

• The bill lets regulators limit THC strength in adult-use products, so recreational users aren’t getting products that are too strong. 

These changes in Senate Bill 56 aim to tighten the rules around where and how marijuana can be used, stored, and carried.

Impact on Voter-Approved Legalization

Many people saw Ohio’s 2023 legalization vote as a clear statement that voters supported adult-use marijuana. Adult-use marijuana sales began in August 2024, but Senate Bill 56 changes parts of the law voters originally approved.

Some of the protections and rules voters approved have now been changed by Senate Bill 56, including:

• Changing some consumer protections by giving the state more control over things like product rules, packaging, and THC limits, instead of having those rules clearly written into the law.

• Adding new criminal penalties for certain marijuana activities, such as carrying marijuana outside its original packaging or bringing marijuana into Ohio from another state.

Some supporters say Senate Bill 56 weakens parts of the original marijuana law approved by voters.

What Happens in March 2026

The effective date for Senate Bill 56 is March 20th, 2026. That’s when most of the bill’s changes become enforceable, including:

• The ban on unregulated intoxicating hemp products outside dispensaries

• New rules for how marijuana must be transported and stored

If you use marijuana in Ohio, it’s important to understand these updates before March arrives.

Bottom Line

Ohio’s marijuana landscape is shifting. Even after voters passed legalization, Senate Bill 56 changes how adult-use marijuana and intoxicating hemp products are regulated.

If you’re a licensed cardholder, dispensary worker, or regular marijuana user, here’s what to remember:

• New rules start in March 2026 under Senate Bill 56

• Intoxicating hemp products must now be sold only in licensed dispensaries

• THC drinks won’t be allowed outside dispensaries

• Transporting marijuana from other states is no longer legal

Staying informed about Senate Bill 56 will help you stay compliant with Ohio law and enjoy adult-use marijuana responsibly.

Get Your Medical Marijuana Card Today!

Having a medical marijuana card in Ohio offers numerous benefits over recreational use. With your medical card, you gain access to higher-quality, lab-tested products, personalized care from knowledgeable physicians, and exclusive dispensary discounts, ensuring you receive safe, effective, and affordable relief. Not to mention, the tax savings are significant when you have your medical card. 

Ohio’s medical marijuana program is tailored to prioritize patients’ needs, with evolving qualifying conditions and a commitment to improving access. Whether you’re managing chronic pain, anxiety, or another condition, your medical card empowers you to shop at licensed dispensaries with confidence, knowing you’re receiving products designed specifically for therapeutic use.

Thanks to telemedicine, obtaining your card is simple, quick, and convenient. With an Ohio Marijuana Card, you can complete your evaluation and receive a recommendation on the same day, all from the comfort of home! Schedule your appointment today!

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Doctors Who Care

Relief You Can Trust

At Ohio Marijuana Card, we’re here to make the process easy and stress-free. Our team is dedicated to helping you unlock the full benefits of Ohio’s medical marijuana program while improving your overall quality of life.

Don’t wait to start feeling better. Call us at (866) 457-5559 or schedule your evaluation today, and take advantage of the many benefits a medical card has to offer!

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