Yost: ‘sloppy work,’ not politics, sank attempt on pot-law referendum

Ohio's Pot Law Referendum Faces Hurdles Due to "Sloppy Work" Says AG Yost

In Ohio, a bid to overturn Senate Bill 56, which imposes sweeping changes on marijuana use including a ban on hemp, has hit a snag. Ohio Attorney General David Yost cited "sloppy work" in rejecting the proposed referendum's ballot language, rather than political bias.

The Breaking Point

Advocates pushing for a referendum aimed at blocking the recent marijuana restrictions—specifically those against intoxicating hemp—faced a significant setback. Attorney General David Yost rejected the summary language of their petition, pointing out inaccuracies that misrepresent the law's scope and effect.

Beneath the Surface

The dismissal has stirred scrutiny regarding Yost’s history with citizen-led initiatives, which have occasionally faced multiple rejections. Attorney Mark Brown, a critic of Yost, argues that the AG’s stringent reviews might be a tactical delay. Meanwhile, the proposed law changes could threaten business operations and undermine voter decisions made in 2023.

The Ripple Effect

Despite setbacks, Ohioans for Cannabis Choice remain undeterred, preparing to revise their petition to align with legality requirements. The group plans to gather additional signatures to make their way onto the ballot, emphasizing persistence in addressing this contentious issue.