Ohio legislators have delayed a scheduled hearing and vote on Sub Bill 56—a proposed amendment to the voter-approved Issue 2 legalization law—after Republican House and Senate leaders failed to agree on key policy changes. This postponement comes just weeks before lawmakers were expected to reconvene ahead of the summer recess.
Sub Bill 56 aimed to revise Ohio’s cannabis framework, including reducing home-grow limits from 12 to six plants, imposing THC potency caps on extracts, prohibiting sharing cannabis in private homes, and redirecting tax revenue away from social equity and community programs. These proposals, pushed by Senate Republicans, clashed with House priorities—particularly on preserving local tax sharing and avoiding harsh possession penalties.
At a recent House Judiciary Committee meeting, lawmakers decided not to advance the bill due to ongoing disagreements. A major sticking point involves funding distribution: House members fought to maintain local allocations, citing opposition from cities and counties who have already begun benefiting from legalization revenue. Other points of contention include licensing limits and stricter rules on smoking in vehicles or rental properties.
Ohio lawmakers are now stepping back to regroup, with Senate President Rob McColley expressing hope for resolution by end-of-June and House Speaker Matt Huffman noting concerns about finalizing issues before leveraging other legislative priorities. Republican Rep. Jamie Callender—who backed legal sales—lamented the cancellation, citing last-minute shifts by the Senate as the reason for delay. Others suggest the bill may simply be premature, with no pressing public demand for the changes.
As Ohio lawmakers approach a summer recess, the fate of Sub Bill 56 remains uncertain. Without consensus, controversial revisions to HB 160 and SB 56 are unlikely to proceed before the next legislative session. That leaves the legalization framework approved by voters intact—for now—while local leaders and legalization advocates closely monitor any future attempts to modify the law.
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