The bill, introduced by Representative Stewart, seeks to amend various sections of the Revised Code concerning liquor control, hemp, and adult-use marijuana laws, while establishing new provisions and repealing outdated sections. Key amendments include the introduction of new sections such as 2953.321, 3796.04, and 3796.062, which clarify the licensing process for marijuana-related activities and require licensing authorities to create a list of specific criminal offenses that may disqualify individuals from obtaining licenses. A temporary provision is also included that prohibits licensing authorities from refusing to issue licenses based on an individual's criminal history for two years following the amendment's effective date, allowing individuals with past convictions a fair opportunity to obtain licenses. The bill further establishes a division of marijuana control within the Department of Commerce to oversee the licensure of marijuana cultivators, processors, and dispensaries, while also introducing regulations for the cultivation, processing, and dispensing of both medical and adult-use marijuana.

Additionally, the bill introduces a new excise tax on the retail sale of adult-use marijuana at a rate of ten percent, with the tax to be paid by consumers at the time of purchase. It establishes a marijuana receipts fund in the state treasury to support municipalities that allow adult-use dispensaries. The bill also outlines penalties for violations related to the new tax and repeals several existing sections of the Revised Code, transferring authority from the Division of Cannabis Control to the newly established Division of Marijuana Control. Overall, the legislation aims to create a comprehensive regulatory framework for marijuana in Ohio, ensuring public safety, equity in licensing, and financial support for local communities.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 9.79, 519.21, 928.01, 928.03, 3376.07, 3796.01, 3796.02, 3796.03, 3796.05, 3796.06, 3796.07, 3796.09, 3796.10, 3796.12, 3796.13, 3796.14, 3796.15, 3796.17, 3796.18, 3796.19, 3796.20, 3796.21, 3796.22, 3796.23, 3796.24, 3796.27, 3796.28, 3796.29, 3796.30, 3796.31, 4735.18, 4796.25, 5502.01, 5502.13, 5502.14, 5713.30, 5739.21, 5739.99, 3780.01, 3780.02, 3780.03, 3780.04, 3780.05, 3780.06, 3780.07, 3780.08, 3780.09, 3780.10, 3780.11, 3780.12, 3780.13, 3780.14, 3780.15, 3780.16, 3780.17, 3780.18, 3780.19, 3780.20, 3780.21, 3780.22, 3780.23, 3780.24, 3780.25, 3780.26, 3780.27, 3780.28, 3780.29, 3780.30, 3780.31, 3780.32, 3780.33, 3780.34, 3780.35, 3780.36, 3780.90, 3780.99, 3796.021