Green Light for Green Leaf: A Guide to Legal Cannabis Purchasing in Ohio
Welcome, Ohioans! If you’ve been wondering about the state of cannabis legality in our beautiful Buckeye State, you’re in luck. In this friendly guide, we’ll navigate the green pastures of legal weed in Ohio.
First things first: As of January 1, 2017, Ohio made history by becoming the 25th state to legalize medical marijuana. But what does that mean for you? Let’s break it down.
Qualifying Conditions: To qualify for a medical marijuana card in Ohio, patients must have one of the following debilitating medical conditions: AIDS, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Alzheimer’s disease, cancer, chronic trauma, Crohn’s disease, epilepsy or another seizure disorder, fibromyalgia, glaucoma, hepatitis C, inflammatory bowel disease, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), sickle cell anemia, spinal cord injury with spasticity, Tourette’s syndrome, traumatic brain injury, and ulcerative colitis.
Getting Your Card: To get a medical marijuana card, you’ll need to visit a certified Ohio medical marijuana physician. They’ll evaluate your condition and recommend the appropriate treatment. Once recommended, you can apply for a patient ID card through the Ohio Bureau of Medical Marijuana Control. The fee is $50, but financial assistance is available if needed.
Where to Buy: Once you have your card, you can purchase medical marijuana from licensed dispensaries. As of May 2021, there are over 70 dispensaries statewide, with more on the way. Each dispensary offers a variety of products, including flower, edibles, concentrates, patches, oils, and topicals.
What About Recreational Use? Unfortunately, recreational marijuana use is still illegal in Ohio. However, efforts are underway to legalize it for adult use in future ballot initiatives. Keep an eye on the news for updates!
Remember, possessing more than a 90-day supply of medical marijuana is illegal, so be mindful of how much you purchase and store. Also, it’s important not to consume marijuana in public places or while operating a vehicle.
In Ohio, we take care of our citizens and are committed to providing safe, effective treatment options. Whether you’re seeking relief from chronic pain, managing PTSD, or any other qualifying condition, remember that help is just a card away!
Stay green, Ohio!