COLUMBUS, Ohio — Ohio lawmakers are introducing a bill aimed at addressing the financial strain faced by law enforcement agencies in the state due to the legalization of recreational marijuana. This initiative follows Ohio voters’ approval of a plan last year to legalize the use of recreational cannabis.
State Representative Sean Brennan, a Democrat from Parma, described the situation as an “unintended consequence” of the state’s legalization of recreational marijuana. Brennan, along with Representative Josh Williams, a Republican from Sylvania, is spearheading the legislation. The bill aims to provide financial assistance to agencies dealing with the retirement of nearly 400 police dogs trained in marijuana detection.
Under the proposed legislation, law enforcement agencies would receive up to $20,000 per dog to offset the costs associated with acquiring, training, and equipping narcotics dogs that do not alert to the scent of marijuana. Currently, once a K9 is trained to detect specific drugs, they cannot unlearn that scent, posing challenges in detecting substances other than marijuana during routine traffic stops.
The bill encourages agencies to explore alternative roles for these K9s beyond drug detection. The primary goal is to ensure public safety while easing the financial burden on local departments and taxpayers.
Regarding Ohio’s legalization of recreational marijuana, adults aged 21 and older are now allowed to purchase, consume, and cultivate marijuana legally. The possession limits include up to 2.5 ounces of marijuana and up to 15 grams of marijuana concentrates. Additionally, individuals are permitted to grow up to six marijuana plants at home under the provisions of the initiative.