Opponents to pot legalization launch campaign effort in Ohio

ResponsibleOhio, the group pushing a for-profit constitutional amendment to legalize marijuana for personal and medicinal use, brought the bright-green colored bus to the Statehouse today.

Opponents to a marijuana legalization effort in Ohio plan to formally launch their campaign to sway voters to go against the ballot issue this fall. Individuals would be able to grow up four flowering plants piece. It sets up a network of 10 authorized growing locations around the state, some that have already attracted private investors, and lays out a regulatory and taxation scheme for cannabis.

Ohioans Against Marijuana Monopolies has the backing of chambers of commerce, Ohio Farm Bureau, children’s hospitals, the Green Party of Ohio and the Libertarian Party of Ohio, prosecutors, sheriffs, lawmakers and more. It also would legalize medical use of pot for children who have parental permission.

“It’s time for marijuana legalization in Ohio”.

A ResponsibleOhio spokeswoman says under the proposal, there would be punishments for those who sell or give to minors and requirements to make edible-pot items childproof.

Their unfortunate stance means they’re protecting drug dealers who don’t pay taxes, care about sick people, create legitimate jobs or check kids’ IDs. Opponents said they plan to begin soliciting campaign contributions and will rely on coalition members to spread the word.

On Tuesday, the state Ballot Board is slated to approve the phrasing that voters will see on Election Day for all ballot issues.