Ohio’s ‘Reeferendum’ Heads to November Vote

Ohioans will vote on the legalization of recreational marijuana this November, as the Coalition to Regulate Marijuana Like Alcohol gathered enough signatures to place the proposal on the ballot, says an AP report.

Despite opposition from groups like Protect Ohio Workers and Families, comprising children’s hospitals, police, and politicians, the initiative gained momentum after collecting 127,772 signatures, surpassing the 124,046 needed. Advocates mobilized through social media to replace faulty signatures within a 10-day window.

If passed, the statute would allow individuals aged 21 and over to buy and possess limited amounts of cannabis, grow a restricted number of plants, and be subject to a 10% tax on products. Revenue from the tax would be allocated to administrative expenses, addiction treatment, municipalities with dispensaries, and a social equity and jobs program.

Governor Mike DeWine and Senate President Matt Huffman oppose recreational marijuana, but advocates say they expect respect for voters’ will if the measure passes. A recent poll found that 58% of Buckeye State voters, particularly Democrats and young voters, support adult-use legalization.