Why it matters: The supporters of a proposed ballot measure to legalize adult-use cannabis in Ohio submitted additional signatures in an effort to qualify the proposal for the November 2023 general election. This comes after their initial submission fell short of the required number of verified signatures.
What they are saying: The Coalition to Regulate Marijuana Like Alcohol, the group behind the proposed measure, believes that regulating marijuana is popular in Ohio and that they will have no trouble obtaining the additional signatures needed.
The big picture: If the proposed ballot measure is successful, it would legalize recreational marijuana in Ohio for adults 21 and older. It would also establish regulations for the production and sale of cannabis products, as well as allocate tax revenue to administrative costs, substance misuse treatment programs, and a social equity and jobs program.
What to watch: The supplemental signatures will undergo verification by county election boards, and the results will be reviewed by Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose. He will ultimately determine if the campaign has garnered enough signatures to qualify for the ballot.
My take: It seems that the supporters of the proposed measure are confident in their ability to gather the necessary additional signatures. If they are successful, it could lead to the legalization of recreational marijuana in Ohio and establish regulations for its production and sale. However, it remains to be seen if the campaign will reach its goal and if the ballot measure will ultimately be successful.
