Ohio’s Top Candidates Pledge To Protect Voter-Approved Cannabis Law

Candidates Pledge Support For Issue 2

Amy Acton, the Democratic nominee for Ohio governor, has pledged to protect the state’s voter-approved adult-use cannabis law. She stated that she would respect the clear will of the voters in the upcoming election. Acton emphasized that Ohio adults 21 and older should safely make their own decisions regarding cannabis use.

Don Kissick, the Libertarian candidate, also indicated he would keep the reforms in place if elected. He argued that the government should respect the decision made by Ohio voters in 2023. Kissick said the state should stop repeatedly searching for ways to override that specific ballot measure.

Both candidates backed maintaining some form of legal access to intoxicating hemp products. This shared stance highlights a potential consensus on preserving the current regulatory framework.

Specific Policy Positions And Quotes

Addie Bullock, Acton’s campaign spokeswoman, told Cleveland.com that the Democrat would be vigilant about legislative attempts. She warned against efforts to recriminalize elements of recreational marijuana use that Ohioans voted for on Issue 2.

Kissick proposed changing state law regarding cannabis impaired driving convictions. He wants convictions to occur only if prosecutors prove drivers were actually impaired. He opposed allowing convictions based solely on THC levels found in blood or urine tests.

The Libertarian candidate indicated he would consider lowering the 10 percent tax in the future. He specified this could happen once the state’s legitimate administrative and regulatory costs are covered. Kissick also backed an age limit of 21 for intoxicating hemp products and reasonable serving limits.

Republican Silence And Race Status

Vivek Ramaswamy, the Republican nominee, did not respond to the questionnaire from news outlets. He declined to state his policy positions on the cannabis and hemp laws in this specific survey. His silence contrasts with the explicit pledges made by his Democratic and Libertarian opponents.

In a 2023 statement to Fox News, Ramaswamy indicated support for ending the federal prohibition of cannabis. However, he previously voted against adult-use legalization in Ohio. He stated on CNN that the state’s move was an abandonment of the rule of law and that it creates a lot of confusion.

The Cook Political Report currently rates the governor’s race as a toss-up between Acton and Ramaswamy. The election will determine which candidate’s approach to the new cannabis laws takes effect. Voters will decide in November whether to maintain the status quo or shift policy direction.

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