A number of new laws are rolling out across Ohio this month and in the coming weeks, bringing changes that impact everything from marijuana sales and voting rules to dog ownership and college sports.
Here’s a breakdown of what’s changing, and what it means in everyday life.
STRONGER MARIJUANA AND THC RULES (Senate Bill 56)
New regulations tied to Ohio’s legalized marijuana law are now taking effect. The state is restricting high-THC hemp products, like certain gummies and vapes, to licensed dispensaries only, instead of convenience stores. The law also sets limits on THC levels and adds rules for testing, packaging and distribution.
You’ll likely see fewer THC products in everyday stores, with tighter control over where they’re sold.
FREE MENSTRUAL PRODUCTS IN JAILS AND PRISONS (House Bill 29)
Ohio now requires correctional facilities to provide feminine hygiene products at no cost to inmates. The law also ensures proper access to showers and sanitation. This standardizes basic health and hygiene access across facilities statewide.
STRONGER DANGEROUS DOG LAW (“AVERY’S LAW”) – House Bill 247
Ohio is expanding what qualifies as a dangerous or vicious dog and increasing penalties for owners. The law allows faster action after serious attacks and increases consequences if a dog injures or kills someone. Dog owners could face tougher penalties, and authorities can act more quickly to protect public safety.
NEW RULES FOR COLLEGE ATHLETE NIL DEALS (House Bill 184)
Ohio is updating how college athletes can profit from their name, image and likeness (NIL). The law sets clearer guidelines for contracts and gives schools more oversight to ensure deals don’t interfere with eligibility or team responsibilities. Student-athletes can still earn money, but with more structure and fewer loopholes.
NEW HIRING REQUIREMENTS IN CONSTRUCTION (House Bill 246)
Some construction employers in Ohio will now be required to use the federal E-Verify system to confirm workers are legally allowed to work in the U.S. The state can investigate and penalize companies that don’t comply. Certain construction businesses will face stricter hiring rules.
CHANGES TO ABSENTEE VOTING (Senate Bill 293)
Ohio is tightening rules around mail-in ballots. Under the new law, absentee ballots must now be received by the close of polls on Election Day, eliminating the previous grace period. If you vote by mail, you’ll need to send your ballot earlier to make sure it counts.
REAL ESTATE TRANSPARENCY RULES (Senate Bill 155)
A new law also requires real estate wholesalers to clearly disclose when they are assigning a contract for profit. Home sellers will have more transparency and protection in certain real estate deals.
While not all of these laws take effect on the exact same day, many are rolling out throughout March and into the coming months. Together, they reflect a wide range of updates, from public safety and consumer protection to election procedures and business regulations, that could impact everyday life for Ohioans.
