HB 160 vs. SB 56: Ohio's Divergent Paths on Cannabis Regulation

6 March 2025

Ohio's legislative bodies introduced competing bills to revise the state's marijuana laws, reflecting differing approaches to regulation following the 2023 voter-approved legalization. The Ohio House's proposal, House Bill 160 (HB 160), introduced by Representative Brian Stewart, aims to uphold the existing provisions of the law, such as allowing adults to cultivate up to 12 cannabis plants per household. In contrast, the Ohio Senate's Senate Bill 56 (SB 56), sponsored by Senator Steve Huffman, proposes more stringent measures, including reducing the home-grow limit to six plants per household and imposing additional restrictions on consumption and product potency. ​

Further analysis:

The introduction of these bills highlights a legislative effort to balance voter intent with regulatory oversight. HB 160 seeks to respect the electorate's decision by preserving key aspects of the original law, such as the 12-plant home cultivation limit. It also addresses public safety concerns by proposing that intoxicating hemp products, like delta-8 THC, be sold exclusively in licensed dispensaries, thereby preventing sales in unregulated venues such as gas stations.

Conversely, SB 56 advocates for tighter controls, including reducing the allowable number of home-grown plants and capping THC content in cannabis extracts at 70%, down from the current 90%. The bill also seeks to limit edible cannabis products to 10 milligrams of THC per serving and 100 milligrams per package. Additionally, SB 56 proposes eliminating the Cannabis Social Equity and Jobs Program, which was designed to support individuals adversely affected by previous marijuana laws.

These legislative developments could significantly impact various stakeholders across the state. For Ohio's cannabis industry, stricter regulations may influence business operations, product offerings, and compliance requirements. Cannabis users and medical patients might experience changes in product availability and potency, affecting their consumption choices.

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