Ohio lawmakers reach intoxicating hemp, marijuana deal; awaits Senate vote

OG article by Avery Kreemer

November 20, 2025

Ohio lawmakers finalized a compromise on Senate Bill 56 after midnight on Thursday, addressing intoxicating hemp products and recreational marijuana regulations amid a federal ban on such hemp items. The deal confines intoxicating hemp to marijuana dispensaries, removing them from gas stations, convenience stores, and wellness outlets that supported an unregulated market. A temporary market for intoxicating hemp drinks mirrors federal law, allowing a one-year legality if compliant federally, with intent for a free market if federal policy changes. Rep. Brian Stewart, R-Ashville, noted the THC beverages provision, while Rep. Tex Fischer, R-Boardman, shifted support due to the agreement to revisit THC drinks for industry pivots. Democrats criticized the impact on the THC drink sector. The compromise also includes a clerical fix to disburse funds from the host community fund, comprising 36% of recreational marijuana excise taxes to municipalities with dispensaries. The House approved it 52-34 at 1:14 a.m., with opposition from all Democrats and some Republicans. Senate confirmation is pending, expected in December, before sending to Gov. Mike DeWine. The conference committee approved it along party lines, with Republicans reluctant and Democrats opposed.