Ohio is stepping into the spotlight as it launches its recreational marijuana market, marking a significant shift in the state’s cannabis landscape. As sales begin this Tuesday, consumers are eager to explore the new offerings. However, for those new to the scene, navigating a cannabis dispensary can be daunting. Here’s everything you need to know to get started.
A New Chapter for Ohio
With legal cannabis sales ready to launch, consumers can expect an initial rush at dispensaries. Interest is expected to stabilize over time as the market matures. Ohio boasts an educated and well-established cannabis community, which is anticipated to embrace this new opportunity.
Currently, the specifics regarding which retail operators will start adult-use sales remain unclear. The state aims to issue cultivation and processing licenses first to ensure ample supply for both medical and recreational markets.
Understanding the Dispensary Experience
Walking into a dispensary might feel overwhelming if you’re new to it. You may wonder what products are available and how to choose what’s right for you. Fortunately, dispensaries employ knowledgeable staff known as “budtenders” who are there to guide you.
Budtenders can help you navigate the array of products, which typically include:
- Flower: The smokable part of the cannabis plant, now legal for combustion under the new adult-use legislation.
- Vaporizers: Devices for heating marijuana flower or oil for inhalation.
- Edibles: Ranging from chocolates to gummies, these are consumed orally and provide a measured dose.
- Tinctures: Cannabis-infused liquids taken sublingually for quick absorption.
- Topicals: Products like lotions and oils for external use.
- Concentrates: Potent forms of cannabis distilled for inhalation.
Finding the right product involves matching individual preferences with the wide range of available options.
The “Low and Slow” Approach
For new cannabis users, starting with low dosages and gradually increasing is the recommended approach. “Low and slow” is the mantra, much like sipping a drink to gauge your tolerance. Starting with a low-dose edible—around 5 mg—and waiting a few hours to feel its effects before consuming more is advisable.
Edibles typically have a slower onset compared to inhaled products like flower or vapes, which offer quicker but shorter-lived effects.
Navigating Regulations
Despite legalization, there are still important regulations to consider. Consumers must be at least 21 years old and present a valid ID to purchase cannabis. Most dispensaries operate on a cash basis due to banking restrictions, although some offer electronic payment options like CanPay.
There are also purchase limits: adults can buy up to 2.5 ounces of flower and 15 grams of edibles or extracts at a time. It’s also worth noting that employers in Ohio can still conduct drug tests and take action based on cannabis use.
Economic and Community Impact
Legalizing adult-use cannabis is set to bring substantial benefits to Ohio’s economy and communities. A 10% excise tax on recreational sales (in addition to state sales tax) will fund various programs, including social equity initiatives and mental health services. By 2028, the state expects to generate up to $403 million in revenue from these sales.
This move is expected to address longstanding issues related to safe access and tax revenue, offering benefits to both consumers and the state.
Embracing a New Era
Ohio’s entry into the recreational cannabis market marks a pivotal moment for the state. With this new chapter comes the opportunity for consumers to explore a diverse range of products while supporting community initiatives through their purchases.
As you prepare to visit your local dispensary, remember to start low and slow, ask questions, and enjoy the journey of discovering what works best for you.
