Why it matters: Ohio Governor Mike DeWine is calling for legislation to ban hemp products containing psychotropic cannabinoids like delta-8 THC, citing concerns over the risk these intoxicating products pose to children. The Republican majority in the state legislature is also planning to regulate adult-use cannabis, which was recently legalized in the state.
What they are saying: Governor DeWine is urging lawmakers to pass legislation to ban intoxicating hemp products, as he believes they need to be regulated to protect children in the state. Republican Senator Huffman is working on a bill to regulate intoxicating hemp products, but wants to ensure it strikes a balance between industry concerns and public safety.
The big picture: Ohio recently legalized recreational marijuana through a voter initiative, but there is currently a lack of regulation around its sale. Governor DeWine is concerned that this will result in unregulated marijuana sales and hopes that lawmakers will either focus on regulating marijuana or banning intoxicating hemp products in the upcoming legislative session.
What to watch: Observers should watch for the introduction and progress of the legislation to regulate adult-use cannabis and ban intoxicating hemp products in Ohio. It will be important to see how lawmakers handle the balance between industry interests and public safety in these regulations. Additionally, the outcome of these legislative efforts will impact the cannabis market and access to hemp products in Ohio.
My take: It is understandable that Governor DeWine wants to protect children from the risks associated with intoxicating hemp products. However, it will be important for lawmakers to approach regulation with a balanced perspective, considering both industry concerns and public safety. Regulating adult-use cannabis and banning intoxicating hemp products are both valid ways to address these issues, and it will be interesting to see which approach gains more traction in Ohio’s legislature.
