A new poll reveals that most Ohioans support having marijuana dispensaries in their communities, viewing the industry as a positive force for the state’s economy.
The survey, conducted by Ohio Northern University’s Institute for Civics and Public Policy (ICAPP), questioned 1,638 adults between October 7 and 13 and explored opinions on several local issues—from solar farms and housing developments to cannabis retailers—and found surprising results that challenge long-held assumptions about public attitudes toward marijuana.
According to the poll, 47% of Ohioans support the construction of dispensaries, whether through new developments or the conversion of existing commercial buildings, while only 28% oppose them, Marijuana Moment reports.
This finding directly contradicts arguments from prohibition advocates, who have long maintained that residents favor legalization in theory but reject dispensaries in their neighborhoods.
Economic optimism around the marijuana industry appears to be a driving factor. 61% of respondents said that dispensaries have had a positive impact on Ohio’s economy, and 41% believe they have improved the overall quality of life.
Still, not all opinions were favorable. 37% of respondents said dispensaries harm public safety, compared to 30% who think they make communities safer. Environmental concerns were even sharper: 54% said the businesses negatively affect the environment, while only 36% said the impact is beneficial.
Brian King, an assistant professor of political science and faculty associate at ICAPP, said the results show “overall support for cannabis dispensaries in Ohio, especially when it comes to their economic impact.” However, he noted that enthusiasm wanes when issues like safety and environmental effects are discussed.
King also observed that older adults, conservatives, and those earning more than $100,000 per year were the most skeptical about the broader social impacts of dispensaries.
The poll comes amid legislative turbulence surrounding Ohio’s voter-approved legalization law. Lawmakers have spent months debating revisions that could restrict home cultivation, eliminate anti-discrimination protections for cannabis users, and criminalize possession of marijuana purchased outside licensed Ohio dispensaries.
Supporters claim the proposed changes would ensure public safety and regulatory control, while critics argue they undermine the will of voters who legalized cannabis in 2023.
Despite political disputes, the industry’s momentum continues. State data shows that Ohio’s marijuana sales recently surpassed $3 billion, generating substantial tax revenue and jobs.
As King noted, the latest findings send a clear message to lawmakers: “Public opinion matters—and these results tell us Ohioans are ready to embrace the economic promise of cannabis, even as they debate its broader consequences.”
