Products derived from marijuana that don’t contain THC, the chemical that produces a “high,” are being sold in stores throughout the state. Cannabidiol or CBD oil can be found in boutique shops and health food stores.
But the Ohio’s Pharmacy Board says sales of those products are illegal.
The board’s clarification on CBD oil, which is derived from marijuana or hemp, says it is illegal under Ohio’s new medical marijuana law, which takes effect September 8. The board says CBD oil must go through the same testing procedures and comply with the same rules as actual marijuana.
The board adds the only legal way to sell it is through a medical marijuana control program dispensary. The Ohio Board of Pharmacy in June approved 56 dispensary licenses, five of which are in Franklin County.
The message is clear that until dispensaries are operational, and none are right now, no one is allowed to possess or sell CBD oil and other marijuana related products. Still, some stores stocking CBD oil are continuing to sell it, despite the pharmacy board’s ruling.
Ohio’s medical marijuana program has seen major delays, and is now expected to become partially operational by the end of the year.
Correction: The Ohio Board of Pharmacy is responsible for licensing medical marijuana dispensaries, not the Ohio Department of Commerce.
