Weed: Ohio Frees the Herb

Ohio finally joins the 21st century as citizens can now purchase recreational marijuana after last year's legalization, marking a step forward for civil liberties and ending harmful prohibitionist policies that disproportionately targeted marginalized communities of color.

A Long Time Coming:
Existing medical marijuana dispensaries opened their doors to adults 21 and older after obtaining licenses to sell recreational products. Employees are thrilled and prepped for the surge, with Zach Gergich, manager at Nectar Dispensary, stating, "[w]e're excited for the morning. We've been staffing, training, and purchasing a lot too so we're definitely not going to run out." [https://www.wtol.com/article/news/politics/marijuana-legalization/recreational-marijuana-legal-sold-ohio-dispensaries/512-a345269f-2a23-4d96-9605-0a0493155500]("So, we got people calling and verifying, we got people checking our hours. Phone's been off the hook all day,").

Limits and Logistics:
Adults can possess up to 2.5 ounces of cannabis and 15 grams of extracts/edibles, with initial purchase limits on flower, vape products, and edibles. Ohio dispensaries offer flowers, vape cartridges, edibles, beverages, and topical creams, with specialized "Ohio tenth" packaging for flower.

For now, only medical-grade marijuana products are available, but come September, expect to see pre-rolled joints and concentrates with higher THC levels. Dispensaries will require a valid ID and mostly deal in cash, but some accept debit cards and offer ATMs.

Cost and Taxation:
Flower prices range from $30 to over $100, with vape pens/cartridges at $25-$75, and edibles at $15-$30. Sales and deals may apply. A 10% excise tax funds social equity and jobs programs, supports affected municipalities, funds addiction treatment, and covers administrative costs, ensuring a more equitable future.

The Larger Picture:
Ohio joins a growing list of states legalizing recreational marijuana, including Minnesota, Delaware, and Rhode Island, moving towards a more just and progressive society, undoing decades of harmful stereotypes and policies surrounding cannabis, and giving citizens the freedom to consume a natural product.

The time for change is now, and with each state that legalizes, we edge closer to a more inclusive and freer nation. The war on drugs has failed, and it's high time we recognize the rights of individuals to make their own choices, free from oppressive and outdated laws.