Smoking marijuana purchased in Michigan could be illegal soon in Ohio

OG article by Josh Croup

November 24, 2025

Northwest Ohio residents have long traveled to Michigan to purchase recreational marijuana. However, a new bill advancing in the Ohio legislature could soon make possessing or using marijuana not legally grown or bought in Ohio illegal. Ohio voters approved a law in 2023 legalizing adult-use marijuana, allowing broad possession and use. The proposed bill imposes stricter restrictions, permitting only marijuana legally grown or purchased in Ohio under the state's Marijuana Control Law. Marijuana from other states, such as Michigan, would be classified as contraband. A Legislative Service Commission analysis indicates the bill legalizes possession and use solely for medical marijuana cultivated, processed, dispensed, and tested for medical purposes; adult-use marijuana similarly handled; and homegrown marijuana at the consumer's primary residence, all per the law. Currently, out-of-state acquisitions are legal, but the bill prohibits them, deeming such marijuana contraband. For instance, an adult-use consumer can possess out-of-state dispensary marijuana now, but not under the bill. This provision is part of broader changes to Ohio's marijuana laws, including treating unregulated intoxicating hemp products like marijuana, with a temporary exception legalizing THC beverages. The legislation aims to tighten control over cannabis flow across borders, potentially curbing cross-state shopping habits while aligning with evolving state regulations. If passed, it could significantly impact regional travel for purchases and enforce stricter compliance within Ohio's framework.