We at Riviera Creek are dedicated to providing safe and regulated medical marijuana products in Ohio. I have seen firsthand the transformative power of marijuana as a tool for wellness and promoting quality of life. This November, voters will have the chance to regulate and tax adult-use marijuana. Opening the door for a safer, healthier Ohio, with direct local benefits pouring into the Mahoning Valley including substantial economic opportunities both from the tax revenue and job creation perspective.

Voting yes on Issue 2 is the right decision for our region and all of Ohio. With Issue 2 passed, we will have safe, regulated and tested products instead of a dangerous, fentanyl filled, black market. Ohioans’ dollars will be going to our local economies, not foreign cartels. And instead of providing jobs to other states where legalization has already occurred, we can help Ohio cultivate this industry at home. Let’s take a closer look at the benefits of Issue 2.

One of the most compelling reasons to support Issue 2 is the utmost important aspect of safety. Right now, Ohio boasts a medical marijuana industry that works tirelessly to help those in need. However, I’d be remiss if I ignored the numerous Ohioans who need help from this industry but lack access. I’ve seen this gap in care happen for several reasons. For example, Ohio’s veterans under VA care cannot receive a recommendation for medical cannabis. For cancer patients in Ohio, virtually no major health system will permit doctors to recommend medical marijuana. Unfortunately, these are just a few of the cases where Ohioans are left suffering despite a clear solution.

Under current law if these Ohioans choose to use marijuana, they are exposed to a risky and unregulated illicit market. These products are not subject to the rigorous quality controls that our products go through. Consumers may unwittingly consume marijuana contaminated with dangerous heavy metals, harmful pesticides or worse, laced with fentanyl. This presents a significant danger to our communities and puts the health and well-being of Ohioans at risk. Under Issue 2, we have the opportunity to expand our already robust regulatory framework used for medical marijuana. This means consumers will have clear information about what they are purchasing and can make informed decisions about their health. Safety isn’t an abstract concept; it’s a tangible benefit that will result from regulating marijuana.

The health and safety of Ohioans will always be paramount to me, for my neighbors’ and children’s sake. However, as a business owner and taxpayer, I see Issue 2 holding the promise of significant economic opportunities for our state. Regulating and taxing adult-use marijuana will create a thriving industry that generates jobs, boosts local businesses, and contributes substantial tax revenue to our state. According to a study conducted by The Ohio State University, potential annual Ohio tax revenue from adult-use cannabis ranges from $276 million to $403 million in year five of operations. This tax revenue generated by this industry will not only support public safety efforts but also fund road improvements, drug treatment and prevention programs. How can we afford to leave these benefits on the table?

Issue 2 is not just about marijuana; it’s about creating a safer, healthier and more prosperous future for Ohio. It’s about giving adults the freedom to make choices about their health and wellbeing. It’s about seizing the economic opportunities that a regulated marijuana industry can bring to our state. On November’s ballot, I urge you to vote “yes” on Issue 2.

Daniel Kessler is the co-founder and CEO of Riviera Creek, Ohio medical cannabis producer. Born and raised in the Mahoning Valley, he resides in northeast Ohio with his wife and two children.