As Ohio enters a new era of marijuana legalization, regulators and local governments are taking steps to control the rapid expansion of adult-use marijuana dispensaries. While recreational marijuana sales just started on August 6, 2024, not all dispensaries in the state have the green light to sell to recreational customers. The state has set restrictions on the number of licenses issued in major cities, adding complexity to the evolving marijuana market.
This article explores the impact of these regulations on Ohio's largest cities and why medical marijuana remains a valuable option for Ohio residents.
Recreational Marijuana Sales Open in Ohio, But With Limits
On August 6, 2024, Ohio officially began recreational marijuana sales, a significant milestone for the state. However, not all dispensaries are participating in the adult-use market. Only dispensaries with a dual-use license, allowing both medical and recreational sales, are permitted to serve recreational customers. This has created a situation where many Ohioans may be unable to access recreational marijuana in their area, particularly in the state's largest cities.
The Ohio Division of Cannabis Control (DCC) recently approved 121 additional applications for marijuana retailers. However, they imposed a cap that prevents 47 of those retailers from opening in Franklin (Columbus), Cuyahoga (Cleveland), and Hamilton (Cincinnati) counties. These are Ohio’s three largest metro areas, and the DCC decided that they already have a sufficient number of marijuana stores.
Why Major Cities Are Limiting Dispensaries
The DCC’s decision to limit dispensary licenses in major cities is based on the belief that these areas already have enough retail outlets to meet the demand. Columbus, Cleveland, and Cincinnati currently have 28 active marijuana stores, which the DCC deems adequate. By capping the number of licenses, the DCC aims to prevent oversaturation of the market, which could lead to unmanageable competition among businesses and a decline in product quality.
These restrictions mirror actions taken in other states with established recreational marijuana markets, where local governments have often implemented caps to control the density of marijuana dispensaries. Ohio's decision to limit the number of dispensaries in major cities aligns with its cautious approach to marijuana regulation, ensuring that the market grows in a controlled, sustainable manner.
The Rise of Recreational Sales in Ohio
Since the launch of recreational marijuana sales, Ohio’s marijuana market has seen a significant increase in revenue. In the days following the August 6 launch, retailers experienced a threefold jump in sales. By early September, the DCC reported $44 million in non-medical sales, a clear indication of strong demand for recreational marijuana products.
Despite this surge in revenue, the availability of recreational marijuana remains limited. As of now, only a fraction of Ohio's 123 medical marijuana dispensaries have transitioned to dual-use licenses, allowing them to sell recreational products. For many Ohio residents, this means that access to recreational marijuana is restricted to specific dispensaries, and in the state’s largest cities, these options are even fewer due to the cap on licenses.
Why Ohio Residents Should Still Get Their Medical Marijuana Card
While the rollout of recreational marijuana in Ohio is exciting, it’s important to note that there are still significant benefits to holding a medical marijuana card, especially in light of the limited availability of recreational dispensaries. Here are a few key reasons why residents should still consider obtaining or renewing their medical marijuana card:
1. Lower Taxes on Medical Marijuana
One of the most compelling reasons to get a medical marijuana card in Ohio is the money you will save. Recreational marijuana is subject to a 10% marijuana tax, in addition to regular sales tax, which can significantly increase the price of products. In contrast, medical marijuana is not subject to this additional marijuana tax, making it a more affordable option for patients who use marijuana regularly for medical purposes.
For example, a $100 purchase of recreational marijuana could come with an additional $10 tax, whereas the same purchase for a medical patient would be tax-free, except for the standard sales tax. Over time, this tax difference will add up, particularly for patients who rely on marijuana for ongoing treatment or use it regularly.
2. Higher Purchase Limits for Medical Patients
Another advantage of holding a medical marijuana card is the higher purchase limits patients enjoy. Ohio's medical marijuana patients can purchase up to 8 ounces of plant material over a 90-day period, whereas recreational users are subject to stricter limits. Recreational customers are limited to purchasing 2.5 ounces of plant material or 15 grams of concentrates at a time.
For patients who require higher doses of marijuana to manage their symptoms, the lower recreational limits may not be sufficient. By maintaining a medical marijuana card, patients can ensure they have access to the quantities they need without running afoul of the law.
3. Access to a Wider Range of Products
Medical marijuana dispensaries in Ohio often offer a broader range of products compared to their recreational counterparts. This includes products that may be specifically formulated for certain medical conditions, such as high-CBD strains or tinctures designed for pain relief or anxiety reduction.
By having a medical marijuana card, patients can access these specialized products, which may not be available in recreational dispensaries. This is especially important for individuals who use marijuana for specific health concerns and need tailored solutions rather than general-use products.
The Future of Ohio's Marijuana Market
Ohio’s marijuana market is still in its infancy, and the state's approach to regulating both medical and recreational marijuana continues to evolve. The decision to cap the number of adult-use licenses in major cities may be a temporary measure as regulators assess the market’s growth and consumer demand.
For now, though, Ohioans who want reliable access to marijuana should consider applying for a medical marijuana card. Not only does it provide financial benefits and access to higher-quality products, but it also ensures that patients are not subject to the same limitations as recreational users.
Summary
As Ohio continues to navigate the complexities of legalizing recreational marijuana, the recent cap on dispensary licenses in major cities highlights the state’s cautious approach. While the recreational market is growing, access to marijuana remains limited in some areas, particularly in Columbus, Cleveland, and Cincinnati.
For Ohioans looking to benefit from marijuana, obtaining a medical marijuana card is a smart choice, and has never been easier. It provides access to tax-free products, higher purchase limits, and a wider range of options tailored to specific medical needs. As the marijuana market continues to evolve, medical marijuana will remain an essential resource for patients across the state.
Get Your Medical Marijuana Card Today!
Ohio continues to expand its medical marijuana program and make residents’ lives easier by passing new progressive legislation. The addition of new qualifying conditions means that many more people will now be eligible for their medical card.
If you think you could benefit from medical marijuana, there is a good chance you qualify!
You need your medical card to access any of Ohio’s medical dispensaries. Not to worry, because it is now easier than ever to get your card with Ohio Marijuana Card!
In Ohio, there are many conditions that may make you eligible for medical marijuana, and we hope the program continues to expand by adding more conditions soon! If you have questions about whether you qualify, we can help with that too!
In order to visit a dispensary in the State of Ohio, you will need your medical marijuana card. With telemedicine, you can even get your card from the comfort of your own home!
If you don’t already have your card, we can help! You can even have your appointment and recommendation on the same day!
Schedule an appointment with one of our physicians today to see if you qualify.
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Here at Ohio Marijuana Card, our goal is to help everyone achieve wellness safely and conveniently through increased access to medical marijuana. Our focus on education, inclusion, and acceptance will reduce the stigma for our patients by providing equal access to timely information and compassionate care.
If you have any questions, call us at (866) 457-5559, or simply book a medical marijuana evaluation to start getting relief you can trust today!