Recreational marijuana sales will begin across Ohio on Tuesday when the state issues its first operating certificates.
Nearly 100 medical marijuana dispensaries will be able to begin sales immediately, although it’s not clear how many will be ready to open, the Division of Cannabis Control said Monday.
Many will be ready right away while others could be delayed by staffing or inventory issues.
The first round of operation certificates will go to 98 locations, according to the Division of Cannabis Control.
100 locations? That reminds me of when Washington legalized it a decade ago and they thought it would be a good idea to limit them to only a certain number per district. The prices were so high at the shops because of that that most people stuck to their illegal hookup. LCB quickly realized the whole thing would fail unless they expanded access.
There’s got to be a good middle ground. Seems like there’s a smoke shop every block in my area (outside Boston). I highly doubt the demand is that high. And they’re all chain places, too. That space could be used for more local and more useful businesses.
We have 14 dispensaries for our city of 55k (6sq miles) and there are regularly lines out the door. Demand is fine.
I personally can’t stand small shops. They regularly lack online shopping and have higher prices. Sunnyside, our local chain actively hires those from the queer community, have consistent products, and offer the best prices.