Ohioans Show Strong Support for Adult-Use Cannabis Legalization Ahead of Upcoming Ballot Initiative

OHIO– A recent poll conducted by Fallon Research has revealed that a significant majority of Ohio residents are in favor of the forthcoming ballot initiative to legalize adult-use cannabis. The survey, which underscores the shifting attitudes toward cannabis legalization in the United States, found that 59% of respondents support the proposal, while 32% oppose it, and 9% remain unsure.

The breakdown of the poll’s findings highlights distinct patterns of support among different demographic groups. Notably, Democrats showed strong support for the cannabis legalization initiative, with 68% in favor and 24% opposed. Unaffiliated voters also expressed their backing at 62%, with 28% in opposition. Among Republicans, 48% favored broad legalization, while 46% were against it.

Age played a significant role in the poll results, with 68% of Ohio adults aged 18-44 indicating their intention to vote ‘yes,’ compared to 27% who were opposed. For those aged 45-64, 62% supported the reforms, while 28% were against. Even among the 65-and-older age group, 46% favored legalization, with 42% opposed.

The survey also found variations in support across racial demographics. Among white respondents, 58% were in favor of the legalization question, while 33% were opposed. In contrast, 71% of Black respondents expressed their intent to vote ‘yes,’ with 25% in opposition. Additionally, 63% of respondents from “other races” were in favor of the initiative, with 32% against it.

If the ballot initiative is approved, Ohio residents aged 21 and older would gain the legal right to purchase and possess up to 2.5 ounces of cannabis and 15 grams of concentrates. They would also be allowed to cultivate up to six cannabis plants individually, with a maximum of 12 per household. The proposed legislation would impose a 10% excise tax on cannabis products, with the generated revenue allocated to administrative costs, addiction treatment programs, municipalities with dispensaries, and a social equity and jobs program.

The question received final approval to appear on statewide ballots in November last month, despite opposition from Republican Governor Mike DeWine and the Ohio Association of Health Commissioners. A recent study conducted by Ohio State University researchers estimated that adult-use cannabis sales in the state could generate between $275 million and $403 million in revenue by the fifth year of operation, further fueling the debate surrounding the potential benefits of legalization.

As Ohioans prepare to head to the polls, the support for cannabis legalization among a diverse range of demographic groups signifies a growing momentum for cannabis reform in the state and adds Ohio to the list of states considering cannabis legalization measures.