COLUMBUS, Ohio – A legal battle over Ohio’s new regulations on hemp-derived cannabinoids has reached a significant milestone, as a Franklin County judge granted a temporary restraining order (TRO) against the state’s ban on intoxicating hemp products. A once local store located in Circleville has consolidated its product in Columbus and is making one more push to cash in.
The ruling provides a critical “grace period” for local business owners who faced sudden financial ruin following the enactment of Senate Bill 56 last month.
The Legal Challenge
Senate Bill 56 was designed to strictly regulate or outright ban many intoxicating hemp products (such as Delta-8 THC) that had previously operated in a legal gray area. However, two Central Ohio businesses—Happy Harvest in Delaware and Get Wright Lounge in Columbus—filed suit against the state.
The businesses argue that the law constitutes an unconstitutional “taking” of their property, as they were left with considerable inventory that they were suddenly prohibited from selling.
The Terms of the Order
While the judge’s ruling effectively stalls the state’s ban, it comes with strict public safety stipulations. During this temporary period:
- Strict Age Verification: Sales are limited exclusively to customers 21 years of age and older.
- Packaging Restrictions: Products cannot be sold in packaging that resembles candy or is otherwise designed to appeal to children.
- Inventory Liquidation: The order specifically allows these businesses to sell through their existing stock while the court deliberates the long-term constitutionality of the law.
Where to Find the Inventory
While Happy Harvest’s Delaware location has reportedly closed its doors, the owner of Get Wright Lounge is utilizing their Columbus storefront to facilitate the sell-off.
Location: 693 Harrisburg Pike, Columbus, Ohio 43223
A Developing Battle
The state of Ohio has argued that the ban is a necessary measure to protect public health and prevent unregulated psychoactive substances from reaching minors. Legal experts suggest this temporary restraining order is just the first volley in what will likely be a protracted battle between the burgeoning hemp industry and state regulators.
For now, hemp retailers across the state are watching the Franklin County Court of Common Pleas closely, as the final ruling on this lawsuit could set the precedent for the entire Ohio hemp market.
