Backers of an effort to legalize marijuana in Ohio for medicinal and recreational use have started collecting the thousands of signatures needed to get the proposal before voters.
The group ResponsibleOhio started gathering signatures on Wednesday to get on the ballot in November. The group says it will start in the state's larger cities and then expand the effort. It needs more than 305,000 signatures.
Spokeswoman Lydia Bolander tells The (Cleveland) Plain Dealer that initial efforts are a "soft launch" that allows staff to be trained and get their feet wet. More widespread efforts are expected to begin next week.
The proposed amendment calls for adults 21 and over to be able to buy marijuana, and to grow up to four plants at home.
