COLUMBUS, Ohio An Ohio judge has temporarily blocked enforcement of the state’s new marijuana and hemp law for two businesses, while a separate ruling in Franklin County allows the law to remain in effect — creating a split legal landscape for Columbus-area retailers.
A Sandusky County Common Pleas Court judge issued a temporary restraining order on March 24 preventing enforcement of Senate Bill 56 against two companies, North Fork Distribution and Cycling Frog, according to court records and statehouse reporting.
The order applies to enforcement actions by the Fremont Police Department and others acting in concert with them. The temporary restraining order is set to remain in place through April 28, 2026.
Sandusky County Ruling
In the Sandusky County case, the court found the plaintiffs raised constitutional concerns, including whether the law improperly restricts interstate commerce by limiting sales of hemp-derived products.
The ruling temporarily allows the two businesses to continue selling products affected by the law while the case proceeds.
Franklin County Case
In contrast, a judge in the Franklin County Court of Common Pleas denied a similar request for a temporary restraining order filed by a separate group of companies, including Saucy Seltzer.
That decision allowed Senate Bill 56 to take effect as scheduled in Franklin County and across Ohio.
Court records show a preliminary injunction hearing in the Franklin County case was scheduled for April 10. Authorities have not confirmed the outcome of that hearing.
What the Law Changes
Senate Bill 56, which took effect March 20, 2026, restricts the sale of intoxicating hemp products, including certain THC-infused drinks and gummies.
Under the law, those products can only be sold through dispensaries licensed by the state’s Division of Cannabis Control. The changes removed such products from gas stations, smoke shops, and other retail locations in Columbus and statewide.
Local Impact in Columbus
The differing court rulings leave Columbus-area hemp retailers operating under uncertainty as legal challenges continue.
Some local businesses have already reported closures or operational changes following the law’s implementation, citing restrictions on product sales.
The Ohio Attorney General’s Office has indicated it is monitoring multiple legal challenges to Senate Bill 56 to ensure consistency across jurisdictions.
Sources
Sandusky County Court of Common Pleas — Temporary restraining order, March 24, 2026
Franklin County Court of Common Pleas — Case filings and TRO denial, March–April 2026
Ohio Attorney General’s Office — Statements on SB 56 litigation
Ohio Capital Journal, Marijuana Moment, Cannabis Business Times — Reporting on TRO and legal challenges
WSYX/ABC6 and Spectrum News — Coverage of Franklin County ruling and SB 56 implementation
Disclaimer: This article is based on information released by Ohio court officials and verified sources at the time of publication. Details may change as litigation continues.