Ohio's Controversial Cannabis Legislation: Updates on Legalization and Medical Program Enrollment

The Ohio Senate Republicans have introduced a bill on legal cannabis that includes provisions for expungement and allowing existing medical dispensaries to sell recreational cannabis. However, the expungement provision is confusing and may not be effective, and the inclusion of the home-grow provision is seen as a deceptive move by the GOP. Additionally, the bill diverts tax revenue from legal cannabis to fund jails and law enforcement, undermining the social equity measures included in the voter-approved statute. Critics argue that the bill is a giveaway to law enforcement and lacks transparency.