Want To Get Into Ohio’s Legal Cannabis Marketplace?

COLUMBUS – Ohio opened the application process for Ohio recreational Marijuana Sales via Existing Medical Dispensaries. On June 7, Published on the Division of Cannabis Control’s website, a new “dual-use” license permit will allow existing medical marijuana dispensaries to sell recreational cannabis to adults 21 and over.

1. Who Can Get an Ohio Recreational Marijuana Sales License?

Specifically, “existing businesses” are the only ones currently eligible to apply for dual-use licenses. This is because permit applications are not open to the general public at this time. To ensure a smooth transition and meet market needs, the state will consider patient and consumer demand during a 24-month review period.

Following this evaluation, would-be cannabis entrepreneurs will have a chance to apply for recreational ownership licenses. James Crawford, public information officer for the Ohio Department of Commerce, which oversees the Division of Cannabis Control, confirmed this information.

2. Ohio’s Regulations for Dispensary Locations In Recreational Marijuana Market:

“We want to make sure there is fair access to Ohio consumers, and do everything we can to eliminate the illicit market,” Crawford said in an email.

To achieve this, the Division of Cannabis Control will be mindful of dispensary locations. Specifically, they aim to avoid large pockets where the absence of legal facilities could allow the illicit market to thrive. Additionally, the division wants to prevent an over-concentration of facilities in the same geographic region, as this could lead to a higher failure rate for these businesses.

3. Types Of Cultivation Licenses For Medical Marijuana In Ohio?

In addition, medical companies enrolled in a state-run caregiver registry qualify for a 10(B) license. Furthermore, Level I growers can hold up to three licenses, while Level II growers are eligible for one. To differentiate between them, cultivation licenses are categorized based on production size.

Expansion Opportunities:

Level I: Permits growing space up to 25,000 square feet (existing) and potentially expands to 100,000 square feet with a non-medical license.
Level II: Permits growing space up to 3,000 square feet (existing) and potentially expands to 15,000 square feet with a non-medical license.

Non-medical licensees can submit an expansion request under Issue 2 initiative, a voter-approved initiative from November 2023.

4. Ohio Recreational Marijuana License Cost and Application Process:

To obtain either a dual-use or recreational license, applicants must pay a non-refundable $5,000 fee. Businesses selected in the June 21st license lottery were then able to proceed with site selection starting on July 1st.

5. Recreational Cannabis Dispensary Eligibility Through Ohio’s Social Equity Program:

The success of the cannabis social equity and jobs program outlined in Issue 2 will partially determine future licensing rounds, building on a foundation of social equity. This program, managed by the Ohio Department of Development, aims to create a more inclusive cannabis industry.

Specifically, it will eventually issue 40 Level III cultivator licenses, allowing for 5,000 square feet of growing space each, and an additional 50 dispensary licenses.

6. Ohio’s Legal Marijuana Market Review And Updates:

To ensure market stability, the Division of Cannabis Control will conduct a biannual review of the number of permits in circulation. This process will begin 24 months after the issuance of the first non-medical license, as stated by James Crawford.

While a specific timeline for the social equity program hasn’t been announced yet, the state has assured participants they will receive advance notice before the application period opens. This notice will clarify who qualifies for preferential treatment in the program.

Final Words On Ohio’s Legal Cannabis Marketplace:

“Ohio Recreational Marijuana Sales via Existing Medical Dispensaries” highlights that Ohio’s legal cannabis market is currently limited, with existing medical dispensaries receiving priority for dual-use licenses.

The state prioritizes fair access for consumers and eliminating the illicit market through strategic dispensary placement. The state plans a social equity program with new dispensary and cultivator licenses, but it has yet to announce the application timeline.

Check the MITECHNEWS site for the latest information on recreational marijuana licensing.

FAQs

1. Can I buy recreational marijuana in Ohio right now?

Currently, recreational marijuana sales are limited in Ohio. Only existing medical marijuana dispensaries with dual-use licenses can sell recreational products to adults 21 and older.

2. How can I get a recreational marijuana license in Ohio?

At this time, applications for new recreational marijuana licenses are not available to the general public. The state will conduct a 24-month review period before opening applications to new businesses.

3. Where will recreational marijuana dispensaries be located in Ohio?

The state is prioritizing fair access for consumers and preventing an over-concentration of facilities. Specific dispensary locations haven’t been announced yet, but they will be strategically placed to avoid creating areas where the illicit market can flourish.