An Ohio bill to significantly revise the state’s marijuana program, while adding new restrictions to the hemp market, has hit a roadblock—with the Senate soundly rejecting the latest amended version that advanced out of the House.
The legislation from Sen. Stephen Huffman (R) first passed the Senate in February before reaching the House floor last week, where members approved substantive changes scaling back certain controversial provisions but still maintained language advocates say undermines the will of voters who approved legalization in 2023.
On Wednesday, the Senate voted unanimously, 32-0, not to concur with the House amendments, potentially setting the stage for a bicameral conference committee to resolve differences between the chambers.
On the floor, senators from both major parties spoke out in opposition to SB 56 as revised by the House. But much of their focus concerned provisions related to intoxicating hemp products.
“When Senate Bill 56 passed from the House, they failed to close the loophole for synthetic THC,” Sen. Shane Wilkin (R) said. “Additionally, this would allow for the continued sale of untested, unregulated [products]—which means packages that are designed and directed toward kids. They’re not child-proof.”
Watch the Senate’s debate on the cannabis bill, starting around 24:45
Read full article on Marijuana Moment
