Ohio Hemp Businesses Could Close if Senate Bill 86 Passes
Columbus, Ohio – As Ohio legislators move forward with Senate Bill 86, hemp business owners across the state are voicing serious concerns. If passed, the bill could force hemp-derived products off the shelves of gas stations, convenience stores, and smoke shops, requiring them to be sold exclusively in licensed marijuana dispensaries.
Currently, hemp is legal under both federal and Ohio law, but this bill could redefine how and where hemp products are accessed — and that has the industry on edge.
Ahmad Khalio, operator of the Hippie Hut Smoke Shops in Columbus, said the legislation would be devastating to his business.
“Hemp takes up about 40% of our margins. If these bills go through, we’ve already told employees layoffs are likely,” Khalio shared.
The bill stems from concerns raised by Governor Mike DeWine, who has expressed a desire to ban the sale of “intoxicating hemp” in locations accessible to minors.
“You have got young kids walking into gas stations and buying this garbage,” DeWine said. “The legislature needs to take action.”
Although a similar bill failed to pass in last year’s General Assembly, Senate Bill 86 passed unanimously in the Senate just two weeks ago. It was referred to the General Government Committee in the Ohio House on May 7, and its progress is being closely watched.
If passed, the Ohio Department of Commerce will be responsible for establishing new rules on licensing, packaging, labeling, and advertising for hemp products — all of which could significantly affect how small businesses operate.
Not all lawmakers support an outright ban. Republican State Rep. Bill Seitz advocated for balanced regulation over prohibition.
“We can regulate these products without banning them entirely. Many stores are making a decent living from hemp sales,” he said.
But as uncertainty builds, many local retailers fear the worst. Khalio emphasized that Ohio hemp businesses could close if Senate Bill 86 passes, and that would mean lost jobs, lost revenue, and less access for consumers.
As the bill moves through the House, business owners, employees, and community advocates continue to push for fair regulations that allow the hemp industry to survive — and thrive in Ohio.
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