COLUMBUS (KDKA/AP) - At the stroke of midnight, recreational marijuana became legal in Ohio, following the approval by voters in last month's election. However, the Ohio Senate Republicans are now proposing several changes to the law that have sparked controversy among advocates.

The ballot measure, known as Issue 2, received 57% of the vote on November 7, allowing adults aged 21 and older to use and grow cannabis. Despite its passage, the legislature has the authority to make modifications to the law.

Sen. Michael Rulli, a Republican representing Columbiana, Ohio, explained that the aim of the proposed changes is to ensure the safety of the product in accordance with the people's wishes.

Advocates of the law, however, are accusing the Ohio GOP of intentionally undermining it due to their opposition. Tom Haren, a spokesperson for the pro-Issue 2 campaign Regulate Marijuana Like Alcohol, expressed concern that the proposed alterations would remove key provisions of the law, such as the ability to grow marijuana at home and the implementation of a social equity program. Haren also highlighted the potential for higher taxes encouraging the continuation of the illicit market and driving Ohioans to purchase cannabis products in neighboring states like Michigan.

According to the Senate's proposal, growing marijuana at home, which was originally allowed under the approved law, would be prohibited. Furthermore, the tax rate on marijuana products would be increased from 10% to 15%, affecting both consumers and cultivators.

The revised tax revenue distribution would allocate funds towards general state funding, law enforcement training, substance abuse treatment and prevention, as well as safe driving training. The original statute had outlined that this revenue would be directed towards local governments hosting dispensaries and a social equity program aimed at supporting individuals entering the cannabis industry.

The proposed changes have sparked a debate over the intent and interpretation of the voters' decision. Advocates argue that the alterations contradict the desires expressed by the majority of Ohio voters.

It remains to be seen how these proposed amendments will progress through the legislative process and whether they will ultimately be incorporated into the recreational marijuana law enacted in Ohio. Advocacy groups and lawmakers will likely continue to engage in discussions to balance the desires of voters with concerns for public safety and the viability of the legal cannabis market.

As of now, the recreational use of marijuana is legal in Ohio, but the future implementation and regulations surrounding the industry are subject to ongoing deliberations within the legislature.