Ohio’s 90-day ban on some hemp products impacts Toledo business

TOLEDO, Ohio — A new 90-day statewide ban on intoxicating hemp products has Ohio business owners scrambling— including one in Toledo who says the move is hurting small business innovation.

At Toledo Spirits on North Summit Street, owner Andrew Newby is known for creative cocktails and handcrafted spirits. His menu features traditional drinks made with vodka, bourbon and whiskey, but also includes non-alcoholic options — mocktails infused with Delta-8 THC, a hemp-derived compound that produces effects similar to marijuana.

Now, those mocktails are off the menu.

“I think it’s really important for lawmakers to understand that these things need to be supported and developed so there continue to be opportunities for Ohio manufacturers and retailers,” Newby said. “There are already plenty of rules in place to allow this industry to operate responsibly.”

On Wednesday, Governor Mike DeWine announced a 90-day ban on what he calls “intoxicating hemp products,” which include Delta-8 and similar compounds that can produce a high. DeWine said the products are often sold in colorful packaging that appeals to children and that the lack of regulation has created safety concerns.

“When Ohio legalized hemp in 2019, it was not the intention of the legislature to legalize an unregulated product that can harm children,” DeWine said.

The order, which takes effect Oct. 14, requires retailers to remove intoxicating hemp products from their shelves or face fines of up to $500 per day.

The ban does not affect Delta-9 THC, which comes from the marijuana plant and is only sold through licensed dispensaries, or non-intoxicating CBD products.

Newby said he agrees with keeping products out of kids’ hands, but argued the state should regulate rather than restrict.

“Instead of taking it away, Ohio should focus on building a safe permitting system that mirrors alcohol or tobacco,” he said. “That would protect consumers while still allowing small businesses like ours to thrive.”