COLUMBUS, Ohio — This has been a year of change in Ohio politics. Some major changes include the passage of Issues 1 and 2 in the November election, giving Ohioans access to abortions and allowing for the recreational usage of marijuana.
Here’s a breakdown of what to expect this coming year following the passage of those issues:
Legalization of marijuana: As of Dec. 7, Ohioans 21 years and older can legally consume or possess cannabis. It legalizes 2.5 ounces of adult-use cannabis and 15 grams of extract. A 10% tax will be imposed on purchases. People may also grow up to six plants for personal use, with a limit of 12 plants per household.
There won’t be licensed dispensaries for months as the Department of Commerce creates rules and regulations around licensing. The department recently named James V. Canepa as the superintendent of the new Division of Cannabis Control. He starts his new role on the first of the year.
Abortion protections: The new constitutional projections for abortion access and other reproductive rights took effect Dec. 7. The amendment declared an individual’s right to “make and carry out one’s own reproductive decisions” and passed with a strong 57% majority. However, the amendment did not repeal any existing Ohio laws, providing an opening for Republican elected officials and anti-abortion groups to renew their efforts to halt, delay or significantly water it down.
Both issues pose risks of being challenged in the statehouse.
Alongside the most widely talked about issues, there are a few other changes that take effect in January:
Minimum wage change: The Constitutional Amendment (II-34a) passed by Ohio voters in November 2006 states Ohio’s minimum wage must increase on Jan. 1 each year by the rate of inflation. On Jan. 1, 2024, the minimum wage will increase from $10.10 to $10.45 per hour for non-tipped employees and from $5.05 to $5.25 per hour for tipped employees.
Flavored tobacco ban in Columbus takes effect: In the city of Columbus, an amendment was made by the Board of Health that makes new requirements, including prohibiting flavored tobacco products from being sold or given away in the city beginning Jan. 1, 2024. More details here.
Social Media Parental Notification Act takes effect: This act, passed by Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine in July, requires that minors under 16 get their parent's permission before using social media. Social media platform owners will be responsible for developing procedures for verifying whether a user is under 16, securing verifiable consent from parents or guardians, and submitting a written confirmation of consent. Apps and websites for online shopping are exempt from the prohibition. This act takes effect Jan. 15, 2024.
