Ohio lawmakers have advanced Senate Bill 56, a landmark piece of legislation that not only tightens public marijuana use laws but also introduces comprehensive regulations for THC drinks and intoxicating hemp products. The bill, passed by the Ohio House on October 22, 2025, is now headed to the Senate for further review.
The legislation makes major updates to the recreational marijuana program approved by voters in 2023, including limits on where cannabis can be consumed and how THC drinks can be sold. Under this bill, Ohio marijuana users would no longer be allowed to smoke or vape in public spaces, with consumption restricted to private residences.
THC Drinks Get the Spotlight
One of the most talked-about provisions of Senate Bill 56 centers around THC drinks, an emerging trend in the cannabis and hemp industries. Lawmakers have sought to draw a clear line between intoxicating hemp beverages and marijuana products. The bill allows bars and restaurants to sell low-THC drinks for on-site consumption, while stores can offer packaged THC drinks containing up to 10 milligrams of THC for carry-out.
These THC drinks will be taxed under a new $1.20-per-gallon excise tax, in addition to a 10% tax on intoxicating hemp sales. This dual tax structure reflects the state’s effort to generate new revenue while regulating potency and ensuring consumer safety. Supporters argue that by formally licensing and taxing THC drinks, Ohio can bring order to what has been an unregulated and confusing hemp marketplace.
Regulating Hemp and Protecting Consumers
The bill also responds to Governor Mike DeWine’s recent attempt to ban intoxicating hemp, including certain THC drinks. Lawmakers crafted Senate Bill 56 as a compromise between hemp industry advocates and regulators. Under the new plan, intoxicating hemp products excluding topicals can only be sold to adults 21 and over through licensed hemp dispensaries.
Marijuana Restrictions and Future Expansion
Beyond THC drinks, the bill imposes limits on marijuana flower potency (35%) and extracts (70%) and maintains a ban on out-of-state cannabis products. It also allocates 36% of marijuana tax revenue — roughly $96 million over two years — to cities hosting dispensaries.
Rep. Brian Stewart noted that THC drinks are part of a larger vision for balanced cannabis reform: “The goal is consistency — license it, test it, and tax it just like marijuana.”
As THC drinks gain popularity nationwide, Ohio’s regulatory framework could become a model for other states looking to balance innovation, safety, and taxation in the growing cannabis beverage industry.
