Ohio's shifting marijuana rules under SB56 change access and taxes

Ohio’s SB56 bans intoxicating hemp products and bars transporting marijuana into the state, while lawmakers redirected most marijuana tax revenue to the general fund; the law is facing multiple legal challenges.

Ohio has enacted SB56, a state measure that changes several rules for marijuana and hemp products. The law bans intoxicating hemp products and lowers the maximum THC potency for extracts. It also outlaws smoking or vaping in public places and requires products to remain in their original packaging after opening. Lawmakers moved most marijuana tax revenue to the state's general fund and eliminated the social equity fund that voters had created. Key provisions: - SB56 bans intoxicating hemp products, including THC drinks, and lowers the maximum THC potency allowed for extracts. - Smoking or vaping in public places is prohibited under the new law. - The law makes it illegal to transport marijuana into Ohio from another state, even if it was legally purchased there. - Products must be stored in their original packaging, even after opening. - Lawmakers redirected most marijuana tax revenue to the state's general fund and eliminated the voter-created social equity fund; cities with dispensaries still receive 36% of the tax revenue. - Recreational marijuana sales in Ohio topped $836 million last year, and Cleveland received about $740,000 in tax revenue between August 2025 and December 2025. Summary: SB56 changes product standards, public-use rules, and how tax revenue is allocated, affecting consumers, retailers, and local governments. The law is already the subject of court action: a Sandusky County judge blocked local enforcement of the hemp ban and a Franklin County judge allowed some shops to sell off inventory; other lawsuits may follow. Undetermined at this time.