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Breaking News: Ohio Announces Significant Reduction in Medical Marijuana Registration Fees
Ohio Slashes Medical Marijuana Fees to 1 Cent
In an unprecedented move, the Division of Cannabis Control (DCC) in Ohio has announced a groundbreaking decision that promises to alleviate the financial burden on medical marijuana patients and caregivers. Beginning March 4, 2024, the state will reduce the annual registration fee for medical marijuana patients and caregivers to just one cent. This initiative not only demonstrates Ohio's commitment to making medical marijuana accessible but also paves the way for the complete elimination of the registration fee in the near future.
Immediate Relief for Patients and Caregivers
Currently, patients and caregivers are required to pay annual fees of $50 and $25, respectively, to maintain their registration in the Medical Marijuana Patient & Caregiver Registry. In a bid to provide immediate financial relief, the DCC, in collaboration with its software vendor, is working diligently to update the registry system. This interim measure ensures that, starting from March 4, 2024, the registration fee will be reduced to a nominal $0.01.
Automatic Fee Reduction: No Extra Steps Required
The process for benefiting from this reduced fee is straightforward. Patients and caregivers do not need to submit any additional documentation or requests. The fee reduction will automatically apply to all new registrations and renewals at the time of checkout, ensuring a seamless transition for all involved.
Non-Refundable but a Step Towards Complete Elimination
It's important to note that all fees paid are non-refundable, and the DCC will not be able to process requests for refunds. However, the Division is committed to keeping the community informed and will notify all registered patients and caregivers once the fee is fully removed from the system, anticipated to be in late Spring.
Why Stay Registered?
Remaining a patient within the Medical Marijuana Control Program (MMCP) offers several advantages:
- Ensured communication with a physician regarding qualifying conditions and continued access to dispensaries.
- Potential access to discounts at dispensaries.
- Exemption from the 10% excise tax on non-medical marijuana sales, as per the approved statute.
Furthermore, it's noteworthy that employers retain the discretion to implement their own drug-free workplace policies, which may consider an employee's status as a medical marijuana patient. This consideration also extends to individuals under court supervision.
Looking Ahead
This decision marks a significant step in Ohio's journey towards making medical marijuana more accessible and affordable. As the state moves closer to eliminating the registration fee altogether, patients and caregivers are encouraged to stay informed through the official MMCP portal at [www.com.ohio.gov/mmcppatients](http://www.com.ohio.gov/mmcppatients).
Ohio's medical marijuana community has much to look forward to, with these changes heralding a new era of support and accessibility for patients and caregivers alike.
Will this encourage you to keep or renew your Ohio medical cannabis card ?
Yes
No
Does this make you more likely to get your Ohio Medical Cannabis Card ?
Yes
No
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