“Puff, Puff, Pass the Laws: A Friendly Guide to Buying Cannabis in Ohio”
Welcome, fellow Buckeyes! If you’ve been following the green rush sweeping across the United States, you might be wondering, “Can I legally purchase cannabis in Ohio?” Well, buckle up, because we’re diving into the world of weed laws in the Buckeye State.
First things first: As of January 2021, recreational marijuana use is not legal in Ohio. However, if you’ve got a medical condition that qualifies, you can get your hands on some green gold!
In 2016, Ohio voters passed Issue 3, which aimed to legalize both medical and recreational marijuana. But due to opposition and legal challenges, the law was repealed, leaving us with a medicinal-only market.
But don’t fret! In May 2018, House Bill 523 was signed into law, making Ohio one of the more than 30 states with medical marijuana programs. So, who qualifies for a Medical Marijuana Card (MMC)?
Qualifying conditions include:
1. AIDS
2. Alzheimer’s disease
3. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)
4. Cancer
5. Chronic traumatic encephalopathy
6. Crohn’s disease
7. Epilepsy or another seizure disorder
8. Fibromyalgia
9. Glaucoma
10. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
11. Tourette syndrome
12. Ulcerative colitis
13. Any terminal, debilitating, or chronic disease or treatment for a chronic medical condition that is included in the Compassionate Care Act.
If you’re thinking, “Wow, I think I qualify,” here’s what you need to do:
1. Consult with your doctor: They can certify whether your condition qualifies. If they agree, they’ll issue a written certification.
2. Register online: You can register for an MMC online at the Ohio Medical Marijuana Control Program (OMMCP) website.
3. Pay the $50 fee: Registration is $50 and lasts for one year.
4. Get your card: Once approved, you’ll receive a temporary card to use while you wait for your official MMC in the mail.
Now that you’ve got your MMC, it’s time to find a dispensary! There are over 60 licensed medical marijuana cultivators, processors, and dispensaries operating across Ohio. You can find them using the OMMCP’s dispensary locator tool on their website.
Remember, you can only purchase cannabis from licensed Ohio dispensaries, and there are limits: A 90-day supply is defined as 3.6 ounces of flower or its equivalent in edibles, oils, patches, or other forms.
Lastly, let’s talk about consumption. While you can consume cannabis privately without fear of arrest, public use and possession remain illegal. So, be smart, Buckeyes! Keep your stash at home and always carry your MMC with you when purchasing or transporting cannabis.
So there you have it, fellow Ohioans! The legal status of cannabis purchase in our great state is a work in progress, but we’re making strides towards full legalization. Until then, let’s enjoy the medicinal benefits and support the continued growth of Ohio’s cannabis industry!
Stay green, stay informed, and remember to always consult with your healthcare provider before using marijuana for medical purposes. Happy rolling and healing, Ohio!