As Ohio’s cannabis industry grows, it's time for lawmakers to take the next logical step: launching a pilot program for cannabis social lounges. By looking to the successes of other states, Ohio can create safe, legal spaces for public consumption while supporting small businesses and enhancing public safety.

Currently, cannabis use is largely confined to private residences in Ohio, leaving renters and residents in public housing, where landlords may prohibit cannabis use, with few options. This forces many to resort to consuming in less-than-ideal locations like cars, public spaces, or hotels, increasing risks and public safety concerns.

Designated social lounges would help mitigate these issues. Just as Nevada reduced public consumption problems in Las Vegas by introducing lounges, Ohio could do the same, keeping cannabis off the streets and out of parks in popular areas like the Short North and Easton.

These lounges also offer a level of safety and education that dispensaries cannot. While dispensaries can sell products, they cannot guide consumers through the consumption process. Lounges, however, employ staff who are trained to assist new users, helping them make informed choices about dosage and product types. This professional oversight is essential, especially for first-time users or newcomers to stronger products like concentrates​.

At a time when small businesses, particularly bars and restaurants, are struggling, cannabis lounges represent a timely economic opportunity. States like Michigan, Illinois, New York, and California have already reaped the financial benefits of allowing social lounges.

With Ohio’s adult-use cannabis market already generating nearly $100 million in sales and $10 million in tax revenue in just two months, the Ohio General Assembly should act quickly. A pilot program for cannabis social lounges would not only fill gaps in current consumption laws but also position Ohio as a progressive leader in the cannabis industry.