Ohio Marijuana Law Amended (Part 1)

Bill Sponsor: Stephen Huffman (Dist. 5)
Passed by: Senate
Date: March 2, 2025

Section 2953.321 – Expungement of Marijuana-Related Convictions

• Allows individuals convicted of certain marijuana-related offenses before the law's effective date to apply for expungement.
• Eligible offenses include possession of up to 15 grams of hashish or 2.5 ounces of marijuana.
• The application must include details of the conviction, supporting evidence, and a request for expungement.
• A court hearing will be held, and the prosecutor may object.
• If approved, the records will be deleted, and the conviction will not appear on background checks​.

Section 3796.04 – Homegrown Marijuana

• Defines "homegrown marijuana" as marijuana cultivated, grown, processed, or possessed by an individual for personal use under Ohio law.
• Homegrown marijuana is separate from medical or adult-use marijuana sold by licensed dispensaries.
• Sets restrictions on home cultivation, including limits on the number of plants an individual may grow​.

Section 3796.062 – Prohibited Conduct

• Establishes penalties for violations related to marijuana sales and possession.
  • Possession and Use of Marijuana in Restricted Areas (Division A) - minor misdemeanor.
  • Unauthorized Sale or Distribution (Division B) - minor misdemeanor.
  • Violations of Quantity Limits (Division C) - minor misdemeanor.
  • Illegal Use or Possession of Marijuana Drug Paraphernalia (Division D) - varies depending on offense.
• Engaging in unlicensed marijuana-related activities can result in fines and legal consequences.
• Selling or distributing marijuana without proper authorization is punishable under Ohio law​.

Section 3796.221 – Licensing Compliance

• Sets requirements for businesses involved in marijuana cultivation, processing, and sales.
• License holders must adhere to state regulations, including proper recordkeeping and reporting.
• Violations may lead to license suspension or revocation​.

Section 3796.32 – Advertising Restrictions

• Prohibits advertisements that:
  • Target minors.
  • Feature misleading claims.
  • Promote excessive marijuana consumption.
• The Division of Cannabis Control has authority to review and regulate advertisements​.

Section 3796.99 – Penalties

• Outlines criminal penalties for violations of marijuana laws.
• Fines and potential license revocation for businesses failing to comply with regulations.
• Increased penalties for repeat offenses, including potential felony charges​.

Source: https://search-prod.lis.state.oh.us/api/v2/general_assembly_136/legislation/sb56/02_PS/pdf/

Editor's Note: This is Part 1 of Senate Bill 56. Further Parts will be published in the near future.