Back-to-School Conversations: Preparing Ohio Students for Safe, Smart Decisions This Fall

COLUMBUS, Ohio - As students across Ohio pack their bags and prepare to return to classrooms and campuses for the 2026-27 academic year, the Ohio Department of Commerce and Ohio Department of Higher Education (ODHE) are encouraging families to enter the new school year with three essential conversations: responsible alcohol use, informed cannabis decisions, and smart financial habits. Together, these topics help strengthen student safety, independence, and long-term success.

"The worst tragedies in college, unfortunately, often begin with spur-of-the-moment decisions," said Ohio Department of Higher Education Chancellor Mike Duffey. "Pausing to make the right decision helps ensure students have plenty of fun while avoiding a worst-case scenario."

The first few months on campus can be challenging for college students. ODHE has initiatives and resources geared toward supporting efforts to create a safe campus learning environment for all. Learn more about programs centered on anti-hazing, Changing Campus Culture, and more at https://highered.ohio.gov/initiatives.

Talking About Alcohol & Cannabis: Safety Starts at Home

The Ohio Department of Commerce's Divisions of Liquor Control (DOLC) and Cannabis Control (DCC) emphasize that consistent communication between parents and students can make a significant impact, especially as young adults navigate new environments, social pressures, and legal responsibilities.

Research from national organizations shows that open dialogue helps teens and young adults make healthier choices about alcohol and cannabis. Conversations about binge drinking, impaired driving, underage access, THC potency, and the long-term effects of cannabis on developing brains can equip students with the information they need to stay safe and comply with Ohio laws.

According to the 2025 National Survey on Drug Use and Health by the Substance Abuse and Mental Services Administration (SAMSA), 13.7% of individuals aged 12 to 20 reported having at least one alcoholic beverage in the preceding 30 days; 7.9% reported binge drinking, or having five or more (males) or four or more (females) drinks on the same occasion; and 1.8% reported heavy alcohol use after binge drinking on five or more days in the preceding 30-day period. Meanwhile, 8.7% of individuals between the ages of 12 and 17 reported marijuana use in 2025, which marked a decline from 10.4% in 2024.

Division leaders remind Ohioans that alcohol and cannabis laws apply equally to college environments. Underage use is illegal, providing either substance to individuals under 21 carries consequences, and public consumption and driving under the influence are prohibited. Furthermore, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) can impact developing brains, which continue to mature until around age 25.

"Clear communication about cannabis use and its effects is essential," said DCC Superintendent Jim Canepa. "When families discuss legal expectations and health considerations, including the effects of THC on developing brains, students are better prepared to make responsible choices and uphold Ohio law throughout the school year."

"Parents play a powerful role in preparing students for the choices they'll face," said DOLC Superintendent Jackie DeGenova. "Open conversations about alcohol help students understand the risks, the laws, and the steps they can take to stay safe. These discussions truly make a difference."

Families can explore additional conversation tools and guidance at com.ohio.gov/Responsibility.

Money Matters: Establishing Healthy Financial Habits

The Ohio Department of Commerce's Division of Financial Institutions also encourages students and their families to view the new school year as an opportunity to build lifelong financial skills. With many students, especially Ohio's college students, managing credit cards, budgeting living expenses, and preparing for internships or off-campus housing, proactive planning can prevent costly setbacks.

With a recent report showing college-aged students carrying an average credit card balance of over $3,400, managing personal finances effectively plays an important role in ensuring students successfully navigate their newfound independence, and they don't set themselves up for major financial headaches down the road.

"Smart financial habits begin with intentional planning," said DFI Interim Superintendent Ingrid White. "When students take time to budget, understand credit, and track their spending, they build a foundation that supports both their academic goals and long-term financial wellbeing."

The Division recommends that students keep the following tips in mind:

• Budget realistically by overestimating expenses and underestimating income.
• Track spending regularly to stay aligned with their financial goals.
• Use credit cautiously and pay off balances monthly.
• Monitor their credit using free tools and apps to build a strong financial foundation.

Additional back-to-school financial resources can be found at com.ohio.gov/BacktoSchool.

One Message, Three Ways to Protect What Matters Most

Together, the Ohio Department of Commerce and the Ohio Department of Higher Education share the same mission: empowering Ohio families with tools that promote safety, responsibility, and future success. Whether it's navigating campus-life decisions, building healthy financial habits, or understanding the risks tied to alcohol and cannabis, these conversations help protect Ohio's students while supporting informed independence.

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About the Divisions of Liquor Control, Cannabis Control, and Financial Institutions
The Divisions of Liquor Control, Cannabis Control, and Financial Institutions are part of the Ohio Department of Commerce. The department is Ohio's chief regulatory agency, focused on promoting prosperity and protecting what matters most to Ohioans. We ensure businesses follow the laws that help them create jobs and keep Ohioans safe. To learn more about what we do, visit our website at com.ohio.gov.

About the Ohio Department of Higher Education
The Ohio Department of Higher Education is a Cabinet-level agency for the Governor of the State of Ohio that oversees higher education for the state. The agency's main responsibilities include authorizing and approving new degree programs, managing state-funded financial aid programs, and developing and advocating policies to maximize higher education's contributions to the state and its citizens.