Although medical marijuana has been legal in Ohio since 2016, recreational use and possession of cannabis is still against the law. However, Ohio law currently decriminalizes possession of up to 100 grams of marijuana, which is the highest threshold of any state.
The following is a breakdown of the marijuana possession penalties in Ohio:
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Less than 100 grams – Possession of this amount is considered a “minor misdemeanor,” punishable by a maximum fine of $150 with no jail time and no criminal record.
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Between 100 and 200 grams – Possession of this amount is a misdemeanor, which carries a maximum 30-day jail term and a fine no more than $250.
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Between 200 and 1,000 grams – Possession of this amount is a felony, punishable by up to one year in prison and a maximum fine of $2,500.
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Between $1,000 and 20,000 grams – Possession of this amount is a felony, which carries a maximum prison term of five years and a fine of up to $10,000.
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Between 20,000 and 40,000 grams – Possession of this amount is a felony, punishable by imprisonment for up to eight years—and a mandatory minimum sentence of five years–and a fine of up to $15,000.
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More than 40,000 grams – Possession of this amount is a felony, which carries a mandatory minimum prison term of eight years and a maximum fine of $20,000.
In some cities, such as Cleveland and Toledo, possession of up to 200 grams of cannabis is decriminalized to the point where no penalties are imposed. Back in July 2020, the Ohio Senate passed SB 3, which would decriminalize possession of up to 200 grams and up to 10 grams of marijuana hash statewide.
If you have been arrested for a drug crime in Dayton or Springfield, contact Rion, Rion & Rion today at (937) 223-9133 to discuss your case. Serving clients throughout Montgomery, Greene, Warren, Clark, and Miami counties since 1938.