Bill > SB240

This bill authorizes counties in Ohio to levy an excise tax on the retail sale of adult-use marijuana (cannabis) to fund artistic, cultural, and entertainment opportunities. The tax would be limited to a maximum of three percent and could be imposed for up to ten years, subject to voter approval through a referendum. Counties would need to hold an election at least 90 days after certifying a resolution, and if approved, the tax would take effect at least 60 days after election results are certified. Consumers would pay the tax at the point of sale, and vendors would report and remit the tax alongside existing marijuana sales taxes. The collected funds would be distributed, with 98% going to a permissive tax distribution fund for the county and 2% allocated to an administrative fund to cover tax collection costs. The tax is designed to provide additional local funding for cultural and artistic programs while creating a new revenue stream from adult-use marijuana sales. Importantly, this tax would be in addition to existing state marijuana taxes and would require explicit voter approval in each county seeking to implement it.

Budget and Finance

https://www.legislature.ohio.gov/legislation/136/sb240