Ohio’s Bill to Ban Intoxicating Hemp Products: What You Need to Know

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Ohio is moving forward with a major change to how intoxicating hemp products are handled in the state. Lawmakers want to shut down most of the hemp-derived THC items found in gas stations, smoke shops, and online retailers, so any THC-based products are part of the regulated marijuana system. Here’s a breakdown of what’s happening and how it may affect you.

What’s Happening?

The Ohio House recently passed Senate Bill 56, which would ban intoxicating hemp products from being sold outside licensed marijuana dispensaries, specifically aimed at eliminating intoxicating hemp products. These products often contain enough THC to cause noticeable effects, even though they come from hemp. The state believes the current market is too unregulated and wants all marijuana-based products to follow strict rules around manufacturing, testing, and sales.

Why the State Is Making This Change

This push comes from two main issues. The first is the “hemp loophole,” which allows companies to legally sell products under 0.3% THC that still end up feeling intoxicating. These products are often sold in places with little oversight, like gas stations or convenience stores.

The second reason is growing federal pressure. National lawmakers are working to tighten hemp rules, too, especially around products that cause a high. Ohio wants to update its laws now to make the state market easier to control and enforce before federal laws change.

What the Bill Would Change

If the bill becomes law, intoxicating hemp products could no longer be sold in regular stores. Only licensed marijuana dispensaries would be allowed to carry products with THC. This applies to hemp drinks, edibles, vapes, and other THC-infused products. This applies to hemp drinks, edibles, vapes, and other THC-infused products. Hemp and CBD products that do not contain THC would not be affected and could still be sold in regular stores.

There is a temporary exception for certain low-dose hemp drinks (up to 5 mg THC) that allows them to stay on the market until the end of 2026, but they must follow new rules: they need third-party lab testing before sale, each container must clearly label the amount of THC and ingredients, and the manufacturing process must be registered and closely regulated.

The bill also updates Ohio’s adult-use marijuana rules. It lowers the allowed THC strength for certain high-potency products and adds stricter rules against public smoking or vaping.

What This Means for You

If you currently buy hemp-derived THC from gas stations, smoke shops, or online retailers, those products may not be available much longer. To purchase legal versions in the future, you will need to visit a dispensary.

If you own a store that sells hemp products, you will need to adjust your inventory and prepare for new limits on what you can legally carry.

Why It’s More Important Than Ever to Have a Medical Marijuana Card

With intoxicating hemp products being pushed out of regular stores, having a medical marijuana card gives Ohio patients clear advantages and stability during this transition.

A medical marijuana card ensures:

Reliable Access: Patients can legally purchase THC products from licensed dispensaries even as the state restricts hemp items. Your access won’t be affected by store bans or new product rules.

Better Product Quality: State-run dispensaries must follow strict testing and safety standards. You know exactly what you’re getting, something you can’t count on with hemp products sold in gas stations.

Lower Costs Than Adult-Use: Medical patients don’t have to pay the 10% excise tax that adult-use customers pay, which keeps costs lower at checkout. Many dispensaries also offer discounts for medical cardholders, helping patients save even more.

As Ohio moves intoxicating hemp into the dispensary system and away from unregulated sources, having a medical card offers consistency and peace of mind.

Timeline: When Changes Could Happen

The bill still needs final approval from the Senate and the Governor, but if it becomes law before the new year, the hemp ban could begin as early as March. Low-dose hemp drinks would remain available until December 31, 2026, before shifting under stricter rules as well.

The Bottom Line

Ohio is preparing to place stronger controls on intoxicating hemp products and move most of them into the regulated dispensary system. At the same time, the state is tightening certain adult-use marijuana rules. As these changes roll out, having a medical marijuana card is the best way to make sure you continue to have safe, legal, and dependable access to the products you rely on.

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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