Ohio Senate Approves Changes to Marijuana Law, DeWine Urges Passage

The Ohio Senate has passed a bill with modifications to the state's marijuana law, which will now move to the Ohio House for approval before reaching Governor Mike DeWine's desk. The bill, introduced by Senator Rob McColley, includes changes such as allowing home cultivation of up to six plants per household, increasing the tax rate to 15%, and enabling local governments to impose additional taxes. It also provides for automatic expungements for possession of 2.5 ounces or less and allows for immediate access to recreational marijuana at dispensaries. Governor DeWine has urged the swift passage of the bill to address the lack of legal purchasing options and reduce the black market.