With less than a month left in Ohio’s legislative session, a bill that would legalize recreational marijuana use will need to move quickly to become law.

House Bill 382, introduced more than a year ago, received its first hearing earlier this week.

The hearing included only sponsor testimony.

“We’ve reached a point where a majority of Americans live in states with legalized or decriminalized adult-use cannabis. Ohioans are ready for this step,” Rep. Casey Weinstein, D-Hudson, said. “I am confident we have the bipartisan support needed to get this done next General Assembly, and I look forward to bringing this legislation back in the new year.”

The bill would allow individuals to cultivate up to 12 marijuana plants but requires that area be free from public view and secured. It would allow someone to possess up to 5 ounces of marijuana and creates licenses and standards for operation of marijuana-related businesses.

It would also create a 10% tax from the sale, with the money going to medical marijuana studies, cities with a marijuana store, counties with a marijuana store, public education, and road and bridge maintenance.

“HB382 would create jobs, generate revenue, and keep families together,” said Rep. Terrence Upchurch, D-Cleveland. “We need this for Ohioans.”