Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost has rejected a petition seeking to repeal Senate Bill 56, which would ban most intoxicating hemp products. Yost cited misleading summary language as the reason. Supporters, including the group "Ohioans for Cannabis Choice," plan to revise the language and resubmit the petition to get the issue on the November ballot.
Key Takeaways:
- Petition Rejected: AG Yost found the referendum summary contained omissions and misstatements.
- Senate Bill 56: The law aims to ban intoxicating hemp products like delta-8 edibles and beverages.
- Group's Response: "Ohioans for Cannabis Choice" vows to rewrite the language and continue the fight.
- Business Impact: Critics warn the bill could close thousands of small businesses.
Senate Bill 56 refers to new Ohio legislation set to take effect in March that would ban or heavily restrict hemp-based THC products, including delta-8 edibles and beverages. A coalition of retailers and advocates, "Ohioans for Cannabis Choice," sought to repeal this law through a voter referendum, but their initial petition has hit a roadblock.
Attorney General Yost's Rejection
Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost rejected the group's petition late Tuesday, stating that the summary language was misleading. He identified six specific areas of concern, noting omissions and misstatements that could confuse voters about the law's true scope. For instance, Yost pointed out unclear definitions of "hemp" and incorrect suggestions regarding local sales taxes and felony disqualifications for licenses.
The Fight Continues
Despite this setback, opponents of SB 56 remain undeterred. Dennis Willard, spokesperson for Ohioans for Cannabis Choice, described the rejection as "just a speed bump." The group plans to correct the language, collect the necessary additional 1,000 signatures, and resubmit the petition. Their goal is to place the issue on the November ballot, allowing Ohio voters to decide the fate of the law.
Critics argue that SB 56 represents government overreach and could devastate small businesses. Meredith Farrow, a Cleveland hemp seller, expressed fear that the law would "most likely put me out of business." Conversely, Governor Mike DeWine supports the bill, arguing it closes "dangerous loopholes" that allowed for the sale of unregulated, high-potency THC products.
