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Major changes could be coming for marijuana users, businesses in Ohio

  //business-finance.news-articles.net/content/202 .. ming-for-marijuana-users-businesses-in-ohio.html
  Published in Business and Finance on Wednesday, October 22nd 2025 at 22:53 GMT by Local 12 WKRC Cincinnati
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Ohio Gears Up for a Cannabis Boom, Setting the Stage for New Retailers and Consumers

The legal cannabis market in Ohio is on the brink of a major expansion, thanks to a recent executive order from Governor Mike DeWine that could open the door to retail sales of marijuana, edibles, vaping products, and even cannabis‑infused drinks. According to the order, the Ohio Department of Commerce will take on the responsibility of licensing and regulating a new generation of cannabis retailers, and the process is expected to begin in early 2025.

The executive order, which Governor DeWine signed on July 9, 2024, is a response to growing demand from consumers and businesses alike for a regulated and transparent marketplace. The document outlines a framework that will allow private companies to apply for retail licenses, while setting stringent requirements for product safety, labeling, and security. “We are poised to create an industry that is both innovative and compliant with the highest standards of public health and safety,” the governor said in a statement.

Under the new rules, Ohio will become one of the first states in the Midwest to allow the sale of cannabis‑infused beverages and gummies—products that have been popular in markets such as Colorado and Oregon. The order specifically permits the sale of “edibles, vaping products, drinks, and other cannabis‑derived consumables” provided they meet state‑mandated safety and labeling guidelines. Products must be child‑proof, include accurate THC content, and carry warning labels that advise consumers about potency and dosage.

The Department of Commerce will oversee the application process, which is projected to start in March 2025. The order details a two‑step licensing procedure. First, companies must submit an application demonstrating they have the necessary infrastructure, security systems, and business plans. Second, applicants will undergo a background check and training program that covers the legal, financial, and operational aspects of a cannabis retail operation. The Department will also issue a $2,000 licensing fee for each new retail permit issued, with the potential for additional fees for special product categories such as high‑potency concentrates.

One of the first businesses that has signaled intent to apply is Urban Artifact, a Cincinnati‑based startup that has already built a robust supply chain for hemp and cannabis products. According to a local report, Urban Artifact is preparing a proposal that includes a storefront in downtown Cincinnati as well as an online sales platform. The company’s CEO, who prefers to remain anonymous, said the firm believes the new regulatory framework will allow for a “smooth and rapid deployment” of cannabis products to the city’s consumers.

The city of Cincinnati has also taken steps to accommodate the anticipated influx of cannabis retailers. A city ordinance, adopted earlier this year, permits the establishment of dispensaries in commercial zones as long as they comply with local zoning, signage, and parking regulations. City officials say the ordinance aims to preserve the character of historic neighborhoods while ensuring public safety. “We want to provide an environment where businesses can thrive and where residents can have access to safe, legal cannabis products,” said a spokesperson for the city council.

The executive order’s broader implications extend beyond retail. The Department of Commerce will also be charged with establishing a statewide licensing system for cultivators, processors, and distributors. This will create a “one‑stop shop” for businesses involved in the entire cannabis supply chain, potentially streamlining operations and reducing the regulatory burden that currently deters many entrepreneurs.

However, the proposed changes have not been without criticism. Some lawmakers and public health advocates warn that rapid expansion could outpace the state’s ability to enforce regulations, potentially leading to safety issues such as unlabelled products or unauthorized sales. “We must proceed cautiously to protect consumers, especially young people,” said a state representative who has expressed concerns about the potential impact on public health.

In the meantime, Ohioans are watching closely as the Department of Commerce prepares to issue guidelines and application forms for the forthcoming retail licensing round. The executive order also calls for the creation of a Cannabis Advisory Board, which will provide ongoing feedback and help refine regulations over time. The board will consist of industry experts, law enforcement officials, and public health professionals, ensuring a balanced perspective on the industry’s growth.

The potential launch of legal cannabis retail in Ohio represents a significant milestone for the state’s economy and its residents. With the Governor’s executive order in place and the Department of Commerce poised to begin the licensing process, Ohio could soon become a key player in the Midwest’s burgeoning cannabis market—offering consumers a wider array of products and providing businesses with a new avenue for growth.