Ohio Bill to Decriminalize CBD Oil and Hemp Products Heads to Governor

A bill to decriminalize CBD oil and hemp products is on its way to the governor’s office after the Ohio house voted 88-3 in favor of the legislation. Currently, hemp is a schedule I drug in the state because it is derived from the cannabis plant. Hemp, however, is low in THC.

Under the bill, hemp and products derived from hemp would be excluded from the definition of marijuana under the controlled substances law. Sellers would also receive CBD oil that had been confiscated, so long as it complies with federal law.

The hemp must comply with the 2018 Farm Bill. Meaning, it must contain less than 0.3% THC, the state must track where the hemp is grown, and hemp growers must have a license from the Ohio Department of Agriculture.

Larry Householder, the house speaker, stated

“Farmers are getting hit pretty hard right now with tariffs and weather, I think that it can help them plan a little bit.” He added, “Now they know that there’s a path for us to have hemp in the state of Ohio.”

The bill is now on its way for consideration by the governor.