Yost Sues Multistate Cannabis Operators for Anti-Competitive Practices

OG article by Hannah Hundley

February 9, 2026

Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost filed an antitrust lawsuit under the Valentine Act against nine multistate cannabis operators: Ascend Wellness, Ayr Wellness, The Cannabist Company, Cresco Labs, Curaleaf, Green Thumb Industries, Jushi, Trulieve, and Verano. The suit alleges reciprocal purchasing agreements since late 2022 that prioritize each other's products in Ohio dispensaries, reducing purchases from independent local cultivators and processors. These alleged deals, stemming from national-level meetings, included quotas reserving shelf space, limiting consumer choice, stifling innovation, and maintaining high prices. The investigation began with a 2024 tip from an Ohio cannabis employee and uncovered claims of industry-wide schemes disadvantaging small businesses. Yost stated the conduct rigs the market through backroom deals, violating laws protecting competition and consumers. The lawsuit seeks injunctions to halt reciprocal agreements, sharing of sensitive information, and discriminatory practices. It aims to stop alleged unlawful conduct harming independent Ohio operators and restore fair market access in the state's cannabis industry.