Exploring the Green Spaces: A Guide to Buying Legal Cannabis in Ohio
Welcome cannabis enthusiasts and first-time explorers alike! If you find yourself in the Buckeye State, this guide is your roadmap to navigating Ohio’s legal cannabis landscape. Let’s embark on a journey through the Garden of Green Ohio together!
Ohio’s approach to cannabis has evolved significantly over the years, and as of September 8, 2016, medical marijuana became legal under House Bill 523. Fast forward to April 2019, and adult-use cannabis took a step forward with Issue 1 (also known as the Marijuana Legalization Amendment) on the ballot. Although recreational use is still not officially legal, this progressive move indicates that the future of cannabis in Ohio is looking green.
For now, let’s focus on the medical marijuana scene. Here’s a brief overview of the process to obtain a medical marijuana card in Ohio:
1. Consult with a certified doctor: Patients must first meet with a state-licensed physician who can determine if they have a qualifying condition (such as cancer, epilepsy, or chronic pain) and recommend medical marijuana treatment.
2. Register with the Ohio Medical Marijuana Control Program: Once you have your doctor’s recommendation, register with the Ohio Medical Marijuana Control Program by creating an account at https://mmcp.ohio.gov/. The registration fee is $50.
3. Obtain a Medical Marijuana Identification Card (MMIC): After registering, applicants will receive their MMIC within 90 days. This card, which costs $50, allows you to purchase medical marijuana from licensed dispensaries.
Now that we’ve covered the legalities, let’s explore where to find these Green Spaces in Ohio:
Cultivators: These are the nurseries and greenhouses where cannabis is grown. Currently, there are 24 licensed cultivators in the state of Ohio, each supplying various strains and products to dispensaries. Some popular names include Acreage Holdings, Greenleaf Apothecaries, and Copeland Cooperative.
Processors: Cannabis processors extract and manufacture cannabis-infused products such as edibles, topicals, and concentrates from the harvested flowers provided by cultivators. Processors like CuraWorks (Select Oil) and Standard Wellness Company are well-known in Ohio’s cannabis community.
Dispensaries: Also known as pharmacies, these are the retail stores where patients can purchase their medical marijuana products. As of March 2021, there are approximately 78 licensed dispensaries throughout Ohio. To find a dispensary near you, visit https://ohiommcpricingdata.com/ or use the Find a Dispensary feature on the Ohio Medical Marijuana Control Program’s website (https://medicalmarijuana.ohio.gov).
When visiting a dispensary for the first time, be prepared to present your MMIC and valid photo ID. Staff will help guide you through the various strains, products, and dosages available based on your needs. Always remember to start low and go slow when trying new strains or doses!
As Ohio continues to move forward in its cannabis journey, we look forward to more progress in legalizing adult-use cannabis. Stay tuned for updates and continue exploring the Green Spaces of Ohio with an open mind and heart. Until then, stay safe, stay knowledgeable, and always remember that cannabis is a powerful tool for healing and wellness.
Happy Adventuring!