Two breweries in Greater Cincinnati have filed a lawsuit challenging Ohio's upcoming ban on intoxicating hemp products. The suit targets state officials and argues that the restrictions could harm businesses significantly. The ban stems from a law signed by Governor Mike DeWine last year.
Fifty West Brewing and Urban Artifact, two breweries based in Greater Cincinnati, have joined a lawsuit against Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose, as well as the superintendents of the Division of Cannabis Control and the Division of Liquor Control. The legal action opposes Senate Bill 56, which Governor Mike DeWine signed into law last year. This legislation limits the sale of intoxicating hemp products, including THC-infused beverages, to only licensed recreational marijuana dispensaries, with the restrictions taking effect on March 20.
The bill follows an emergency ban on such products issued by DeWine, which a judge later blocked through a court order as litigation continued. The lawsuit contends that the ban on THC-infused beverages could lead to employee layoffs and the loss of millions of dollars in sales for affected businesses.
In December, DeWine defended the measure, stating, “Ohio is making good public policy by enacting its own intoxicating hemp ban earlier than federal law. However, a carve out to allow the further sale of intoxicating hemp beverages for most of 2026 will create confusion for consumers and a lack of conformity with federal law.”
This case highlights ongoing tensions between state regulations on hemp-derived products and the interests of local businesses in Ohio's evolving cannabis landscape.
