New Poll: Voters Split on Ohio Marijuana Measure

The latest poll in Ohio indicates that the vote on a controversial marijuana legalization measure could come down to the wire next month.

Issue 3, which would legalize both medical and recreational cannabis in Ohio, is splitting voters down the middle, 46% to 46%, with 8% undecided, according to Cleveland.com.

The newest study comes from the University of Akron. It stands in contrast to findings earlier this month by an Ohio TV station that found 56% of voters supporting Issue 3, which is being pushed by the group ResponsibleOhio.

The study found that if most voters make their decision simply based on whether or not they support legalizing marijuana, the measure will likely be approved on Nov. 3. But if they take into account the specifics of the proposal, the initiative could be in trouble.

The poll found that 53% of respondents said Issue 3 is a “bad idea” because it grants “a monopoly on growing marijuana in Ohio.”

Under the terms of Issue 3, the only 10 cultivation sites would belong to a select group of wealthy campaign backers.

Another measure – Issue 2 – that could block implementation of the legalization measure if both pass is also up in the air. According to the poll, 40% support Issue 2, with 27% opposing and a whopping 32% undecided.

So it looks like ResponsibleOhio has its work cut out for it.