New Initiative to Legalize Cannabis Announced in Ohio
The group Ohioans to End Prohibition have announced an initiative to legalize the possession, use, private cultivation and state-licensed sale of recreational
cannabis for those 21 and older. Advocates hope to put the initiative – titled the Cannabis Control Amendment – to a vote of the people during the 2016 presidential election ballot.
“An intelligently regulated cannabis market will promote vibrant competition among small local businesses AND allow outside investment”, says the group. “[This] will create jobs for Ohio citizens, grow the Ohio economy, and foster innovation.”
The proposal would allow any adult or organization to apply to be a licensed cannabis cultivator or distributor; those wanting to grow cannabis privately at home – not for retail sale – won’t be required to obtain a license. Exact limits on how much can be grown or possessed has not yet been announced.
In December, a group called ResponsibleOhio filed a separate cannabis legalization initiative. The proposal would legalize the possession, private cultivation and retail sale of cannabis to those 21 and older, and would establish a Marijuana Control Commission to determine regulations. Some advocates, however, oppose ResponsibleOhio’s approach as it would only allow 10 authorized growers throughout the state, which some consider a monopoly.
– TheJointBlog