Ohio Gov. Calls for Changes to Voter-Approved Cannabis Legalization Bill

Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine (R) is calling on lawmakers to make changes to the voter-approved cannabis legalization measure before it takes effect on December 7, Ohio Capital Journal reports. During his remarks to reporters last week, DeWine said that while “We respect what the people have done … we’re also going to live up to our responsibility to all the people in the state of Ohio, whether they voted for it or voted against it.” 

“My recommendation to the General Assembly is that they take action to make sure that both rights are protected. … People have a right to smoke it. People have a right to consume it. But also that everybody else’s who doesn’t choose to do so is also protected with their rights as well.” — DeWine via Ohio Capital Journal 

DeWine, along with Republican lawmakers in the state, had opposed the reforms which ultimately passed with 57% of voter support. 

DeWine said changes to the law should focus on limiting cannabis advertising, potential harm to children, and the social impacts, such as public consumption. 

The governor said he hoped to have any changes to the measure completed by December 7 so that lawmakers and his administration are “not in a situation of taking something away from people.” 

Ohio House Speaker Jason Stephens and Ohio Senate President Matt Huffman, both Republicans, have indicated that they, too, would like changes to the bill.