The marijuana landscape in Ohio is undergoing significant changes as the state moves towards the full implementation of recreational marijuana. Recently, the Ohio Division of Cannabis Control has issued certificates of operation to ten marijuana growers and processors, marking a crucial step in the state’s journey towards legal recreational marijuana. This development raises a pressing question: Are dispensaries next in line to receive their certificates of operation?
The Current Status of Recreational Marijuana in Ohio
Ohio became the twenty-fourth state to legalize recreational marijuana for adult use. Before that, the passage of House Bill 523 on September 8, 2016 initially legalized medical marijuana in the state. The Ohio Medical Marijuana Control Program (OMMCP) allows individuals with certain medical conditions to purchase and use medical marijuana upon the recommendation of an Ohio-licensed physician.
Regarding recreational marijuana, as of now, the Ohio Division of Cannabis Control has granted certificates of operation to ten cultivators and processors. These businesses, including prominent names like Pure Ohio Wellness LLC and GTI Ohio LLC (Green Thumb Industries), are now authorized to operate in the recreational market. The approval of these certificates is a significant step forward, ensuring that there will be an adequate supply of marijuana products once recreational sales commence.
Key Recipients of Certificates
Pure Ohio Wellness LLC: Large-scale cultivator and processor in Springfield, Clark County.
GTI Ohio LLC (Green Thumb Industries): Large-scale cultivator and processor in Toledo.
Farkas Farms LLC: Smaller-scale cultivator in Grafton, Lorain County.
AT-CPC of Ohio LLC (Klutch Cannabis): Large-scale cultivator and processor in Akron.
Riviera Creek Holdings II LLC: Processor in Youngstown.
One Orijin LLC: Processor in Columbus.
FN Group Holdings LLC (Wellspring Fields): Processor in Ravenna, Portage County.
These businesses have met stringent state requirements, including security measures, employee training, and notification of local officials, positioning them to produce both medical and recreational marijuana products.
The Road to Dispensary Operations
While the issuance of certificates to cultivators and processors is a positive development, the state has yet to grant permits for dispensaries to begin recreational sales. The state regulators are prioritizing the approval of growers and processors to ensure there is a sufficient product supply for the recreational market. Dispensaries will follow, but the exact timeline remains unclear.
Ohio's voter-approved recreational marijuana law mandates that the state must accept or reject applications for dual-use licenses by September 7. This deadline ensures that dispensaries aiming to serve both medical and recreational customers are properly vetted and compliant with state regulations.
Guidance for Opening Day
Recently, the Division of Cannabis Control issued guidance related to "opening day" activities for dual-use dispensaries. Key prohibitions include:
No consumption of marijuana on the premises.
No samples of products.
No product displays or celebratory signage or music outside the dispensary.
Confidentiality of all patients and adult-use consumers must be maintained, and no video or photos can be taken without consent.
These measures aim to create a professional and secure environment as dispensaries transition to serving recreational customers.
Why Medical Marijuana Is Still the Right Choice
Even as Ohio moves closer to launching recreational marijuana sales, obtaining a medical marijuana card remains crucial. Here’s why:
Exclusive Access to Dispensaries: Currently, the only way to access marijuana dispensaries in Ohio is through a medical marijuana card. Recreational sales have not yet commenced, making medical marijuana the sole legal avenue for purchasing marijuana products.
Lower Taxes for Medical Marijuana: Once recreational dispensaries open, medical marijuana patients will benefit from lower taxes on their purchases. This cost-saving measure ensures that patients who rely on marijuana for medical reasons are not financially burdened compared to recreational users.
Comprehensive Medical Marijuana Control Program: Ohio’s medical marijuana program is robust, providing access to high-quality marijuana products for those with qualifying medical conditions. Conditions covered include chronic pain, PTSD, cancer, and epilepsy, among others. With the guidance and recommendation of certified physicians, patients can obtain the specific strains and products that best meet their health needs.
Ensured Product Availability: By having a medical marijuana card, patients can avoid potential shortages that might occur in the initial phase of recreational sales. The established supply chain for medical marijuana ensures consistent product availability for those who need it for therapeutic purposes.
The Future of Recreational Marijuana in Ohio
Ohio is on the cusp of a significant transformation in its marijuana industry. The recent issuance of certificates to cultivators and processors is a promising sign that recreational sales will soon follow. However, for the immediate future, medical marijuana remains the primary means for Ohioans to legally access marijuana.
As Ohio navigates the complexities of transitioning to recreational marijuana, it is essential for residents to stay informed and consider obtaining a medical marijuana card. The benefits of lower taxes, guaranteed access, and the comprehensive support of the Ohio Medical Marijuana Control Program make it a prudent choice for those in need.
While the anticipation for recreational sales builds, Ohioans can take comfort in the fact that the state is diligently working to ensure a smooth and effective rollout. The future of marijuana in Ohio looks bright, with the potential for a well-regulated market that serves both medical and recreational consumers.
Get Your Medical Marijuana Card Today!
Ohio continues to expand its medical marijuana program and make residents’ lives easier by passing new progressive legislation. The addition of new qualifying conditions means that many more people will now be eligible for their medical card.
If you think you could benefit from medical marijuana, there is a good chance you qualify!
You need your medical card to access any of Ohio’s medical dispensaries. Not to worry, because it is now easier than ever to get your card with Ohio Marijuana Card!
In Ohio, there are many conditions that may make you eligible for medical marijuana, and we hope the program continues to expand by adding more conditions soon! If you have questions about whether you qualify, we can help with that too!
In order to visit a dispensary in the State of Ohio, you will need your medical marijuana card. With telemedicine, you can even get your card from the comfort of your own home!
If you don’t already have your card, we can help! You can even have your appointment and recommendation on the same day!
Schedule an appointment with one of our physicians today to see if you qualify.
Doctors Who Care.
Relief You Can Trust.
Here at Ohio Marijuana Card, our goal is to help everyone achieve wellness safely and conveniently through increased access to medical marijuana. Our focus on education, inclusion, and acceptance will reduce the stigma for our patients by providing equal access to timely information and compassionate care.
If you have any questions, call us at (866) 457-5559, or simply book a medical marijuana evaluation to start getting relief you can trust today!
Comments