Darius Walter, who works at downtown Columbus dispensary Nar Reserve, said that number did not surprise him. He said business is booming.

“Things have been going really good, we are definitely prepared for 2025,” said Walter.

Millions of dollars are coming to Ohio from marijuana sales. Recreational marijuana sales have a 10% excise tax on top of the normal sales tax.

The revenue will go to four different categories.

Thirty-six percent of the revenue from taxes will go towards social equity and job initiatives. Another 36% will go to municipal corporations or townships with dispensaries.

Twenty-five percent will support substance abuse and addiction services. Then, the final 3% goes to the Division of Cannabis Control.

“I think the benefit for the next generation is important. Being able to take advantage of the municipality and non-profit side of it,” said Water. “It’s been astronomical to see the benefits and rewards for the tax dollars that will be used."

Walter said a lot of people question the high prices of dispensaries in Ohio. But he said with taxes and cultivators being overwhelmed it all contributes to the price tag. Waters said he expects prices to go down this year.

“You are spending an awful amount of money to drive to another state and leave your money there. You aren’t supporting anyone local, your neighbors, or your local small business that way,” he said.

Jason Erkes with Sunnyside Dispensary said he is happy with how things have been going so far in Ohio. He thinks people seeing the sales tax revenue will make them realize the importance of legalizing marijuana.

“But then the real reward is when they start to see those tax dollars come in. Both for the city level and state level. They’re typically like, ‘Hey, wait a minute. This is real money that we can make real change with in our state and in our community.’ That changes their perspective really quickly,” said Erkes.

10TV asked the Office of Budget and Management for the exact numbers for the tax revenue the state received from recreational sales in 2024 but did not hear back.