Lawsuit claims Ohio marijuana rules on advertising, products violate voter-backed law

OG Article By Haley BeMiller Watch Today's LIVE Episode on X and Rumble

and Youtube

October 06 2025

The Law

Issue 2, passed by voters, legalized recreational cannabis. It required dual-use licenses for medical market businesses by September 2024. The division was tasked with setting rules for licensing, advertising, and product standards. Progress has been slow.

The Complaints

Businesses say rules are outdated, drawn from the medical cannabis program. They argue the Division of Cannabis Control creates confusion and unfair hurdles. Ohio Cannabis Company was barred from using "Merry Christmas" in ads or promoting holiday deals, citing appeal to children. Strain names like Strawberry Shortcake, Kandy Kane, and Shadow Realm were rejected for similar reasons. Companies say these restrictions defy industry norms and confuse customers.

Industry Frustration

Brian Wingfield, co-founder of Ohio Cannabis Company, expected smoother transitions to recreational rules. Mark Hobson, CEO of Wellspring Fields, said the lack of clear laws creates constant uncertainty. “The DCC is constantly moving the goalposts,” Hobson said, limiting fair market access.

Regulatory Response

Superintendent Jim Canepa said legislative debates delayed rulemaking. The division has resumed work, issuing guidance in August allowing pre-rolled joint sales. Rules prioritize preventing appeal to children. The agency declined to comment on the lawsuit.

Contact

State government reporter Haley BeMiller is at hbemiller@gannett.com or @haleybemiller on X.