Ohio Voters Show Strong Support for November’s Cannabis Legalization Measure

COLUMBUS- As Ohio prepares for the upcoming November elections, new data reveals that the majority of the state’s voters are leaning towards the approval of a cannabis legalization measure. The poll, commissioned by the Coalition to Regulate Cannabis Like Alcohol (CRMLA) and conducted by FM3 Research, offered an insight into the public sentiment regarding the future of cannabis in the state.

The survey, which collected responses from 843 likely voters in Ohio, showed that nearly 60% support the cannabis initiative slated for the November ballot. Furthermore, almost two-thirds of respondents expressed their belief that the legalization of adult-use cannabis in the state is “inevitable.”

Exploring Voter Sentiments

Notably, 67% of participants voiced their approval for taxing, regulating, and legalizing cannabis for adult use. This figure is slightly down from the 71% observed in 2022 and 73% in 2020. Current support for the state’s medical cannabis system stands at 63%, a marginal decrease from September 2020’s 70%.

A deeper dive into the specific ballot measure disclosed that 38% of respondents firmly intend to vote in favor, with 17% leaning towards a positive vote, while 5% remain undecided but tilt towards a “yes.”

Details of the Cannabis Measure

The proposed measure allows adults over the age of 21 to legally possess up to 2.5 ounces of cannabis or 15 grams of cannabis concentrates. Moreover, individuals can cultivate a maximum of six plants for personal consumption, limited to 12 plants per household. The initiative proposes a 10% sales tax on cannabis sales. The anticipated revenue would be allocated to social equity and job programs (36%), regions permitting cannabis enterprises (36%), education and substance misuse initiatives (25%), and administrative expenses (3%).

This proposition also seeks to create a Division of Cannabis Control under the Ohio Department of Commerce. The division would regulate and oversee cannabis operations and testing laboratories. Current medical cannabis businesses would potentially benefit from an expedited entry into the recreational market, given the provision to issue licenses to existing operators within nine months of the measure’s enactment. The proposal also encourages municipal choice, allowing localities to decide on permitting new recreational cannabis operations.

Echoing Past Polls

The CRMLA’s findings align with other recent polls. An August survey by Fallon Research echoed these results, showing 59% voter approval. Likewise, a Suffolk University poll disclosed similar backing for adult-use cannabis legalization.

Financial implications of this move are significant. A study by Ohio State University projects tax revenue from adult-use cannabis to range between $275 million and $403 million by the fifth operational year, should the voters choose to legalize.

The converging data from multiple polls and the potential economic benefits make the November vote a keenly watched event, both in Ohio and nationally.