Under Ohio law, possession of less than 100 grams of cannabis is considered a minor misdemeanor which could fetch you a fine anywhere up to $150. Recreational cannabis is still criminalized. Though, cannabis being used for medicinal purposes has been legalized several years ago, with first legal sales beginning this year.
In Cincinnati, the city council there just recently decided to move forward with decriminalization for cannabis up to 100 grams for personal possession.
Ohio governor M. DeWine, allegedly insisted that the city shouldn't try to override state law in this way. But those in favor of the change say they are tired of seeing police focus on victimless crimes.
Although Cincinnati might have moved to decriminalize a certain amount that doesn't mean that it's "legal" in the region. If caught with more than 100 grams you could still face fines and be cited for it.
Although the city council in Cincinnati recently approved of this change, there is a separate measure which is seeking to decriminalize a smaller amount and that measure has temporarily been tabled. If approved though, it could override the changes for 100 grams. The mayor has indicated that he doesn't have any intention on vetoing either measure.
There also aren't any current plans for the city to address expunging the records of those individuals in the past who have had their lives ruined over cannabis prohibition. However, those changes might be forthcoming, as a growing number of other regions have also sought to expunge records.
One ex-coroner from Cincinnati fears that the new changes are going to turn children into drug dealers.
Decades of the war on drugs has proven however, that those who are determined to engage in drug trafficking are going to do so regardless of the legalization. It is time that Ohio and all lawmakers make the necessary changes to stop inflicting violence upon peaceful people for peaceful activities.
