Ohio took a significant step in its marijuana legislation when recreational marijuana dispensaries officially opened on August 6, 2024. The move comes months after voters approved adult-use marijuana in November 2023.
Not all dispensaries in the state are allowed to serve recreational customers just yet. Only dispensaries with a dual-use license can legally sell marijuana to both medical patients and recreational consumers. This selective licensing means that despite legalization, access to recreational marijuana remains limited across Ohio.
A Major Shake-Up for Ohio’s Marijuana Industry
While Ohio voters clearly supported the legalization of recreational marijuana, state legislators are introducing changes that could significantly impact the market. Senate Bill 56 (S.B. 56), a sweeping 147-page bill, aims to overhaul Ohio’s current marijuana laws, repealing much of the voter-approved Cannabis Control Law.
Among the key proposed changes in S.B. 56:
Reducing home-growing limits: The bill would cut the number of marijuana plants an individual can cultivate at home from 12 to six.
Tighter restrictions on sharing marijuana: The legislation prohibits sharing marijuana among household members, requiring each person to have their own supply.
New criminal penalties: The bill includes controversial penalties, such as mandatory jail time for smoking or vaping marijuana on a boat.
Licensing caps: Ohio currently has 128 operational dispensaries, but the bill proposes capping total active dispensaries at 350, which could slow down industry growth.
The bill has drawn strong opposition from marijuana industry leaders, advocacy groups, and citizens who believe these new restrictions go against the will of Ohio voters.
Why Ohio Patients Should Still Get a Medical Marijuana Card
While recreational marijuana is now available in Ohio, there are major benefits to keeping or obtaining a medical marijuana card. Medical patients enjoy key advantages, making it the better choice for those who rely on marijuana for therapeutic use. One of the biggest reasons is tax savings, recreational marijuana purchases include a 15% excise tax, making every transaction more expensive. Medical patients are exempt from this tax, only paying standard city and county taxes, leading to significant savings over time.
The Ohio Division of Cannabis Control sets stricter limits for adult-use customers. Recreational users can purchase up to 2.5 ounces of marijuana or 15 grams of concentrates per transaction, while medical patients have higher limits, ensuring they have enough for their needs without frequent dispensary visits. Additionally, many Ohio dispensaries offer exclusive discounts to medical patients, helping them save even more.
While recreational customers pay full price, medical patients often receive loyalty rewards, special promotions, and veteran or disability discounts. With fewer restrictions and lower costs, a medical marijuana card remains the best option for those who need consistent, affordable access. For a full list of dispensaries offering medical discounts, check out our Ohio dispensary guide.
Not All Dispensaries Serve Recreational Customers
Despite recreational marijuana being legal, not every dispensary in Ohio has the authorization to sell to recreational customers. Only businesses that have secured a dual-use license can offer both medical and adult-use marijuana. This means that while some dispensaries are fully stocked for recreational sales, others are still medical-only facilities.
If you live in an area with limited dispensary access, having a medical marijuana card ensures you can always legally obtain marijuana, regardless of the availability of recreational dispensaries in your city.
What to Expect
The Ohio marijuana industry is still in transition, and more changes are on the horizon. The state’s marijuana program is expected to grow, but legislative battles like S.B. 56 could slow or alter the market. While lawmakers continue to debate new regulations, having a medical marijuana card remains the best way to guarantee uninterrupted, affordable access to marijuana.
Ohio’s marijuana landscape is evolving quickly, with recreational sales officially underway but not without complications. For those who need constant access, affordability, and higher purchase limits, a medical marijuana card remains the best option. As lawmakers continue making changes, staying informed and prepared is crucial for all marijuana consumers in the state.
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 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!
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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