Breaking Down Issues 2 And 3 On Ohio Ballot
COLUMBUS, OHIO — Ohio voters could make history when they head to the polls Tuesday. Depending on the outcome of the election, Ohio could become the first state to legalize marijuana for both medical and recreational use in a single vote.
The decision comes down to votes on two issues, though. Issue 3 on the ballot led to the creation of Issue 2, which could keep Issue 3 from actually happening. It’s easy to see how this can get confusing, but here’s how it all breaks down.
Voting yes to Issue 3 would legalize marijuana and create 10 facilities across the state with exclusive commercial growing rights. The locations are spread out across Ohio and have big name investors including recording artist Nick Lachey and former NBA player and Indiana hoops legend Oscar Robertson.
If Issue 3 passes, monopolies would be come legal immediately and marijuana would become legal 30 days after the election.
“We in the legislature did not feel that people should be able to hijack our constitution and develop monopolies,” Representative Tony Burkley said. “No matter what your opinion is on marijuana, to have a monopoly spelled out in the Ohio constitution is just crazy. It’s like saying that the only cars that can be sold in Ohio are General Motors. I mean that’s basically what they’re saying.”
Issue 3 supporters said the sites don’t form a monopoly because they could add more if the demand grows. They also have plans to take sites away if they don’t follow the rules or meet the quality requirements put in place.
Source: WANE