Shamrocks, Shot Clocks, and Safe Choices: Ohioans Urged to Celebrate Responsibly During St. Patrick’s Day, March Madness Gatherings

COLUMBUS, Ohio - As Ohioans gear up for two of March's most popular traditions, St. Patrick's Day and the NCAA basketball tournament, the Ohio Department of Commerce's Divisions of Liquor Control and Cannabis Control are urging businesses and consumers to keep safety top of mind.

Permit Holder Reminders
Liquor permit holders are prohibited from selling alcohol to underage individuals. To ensure underage consumption doesn't occur, they should take proactive measures such as checking identification at the door and also at the point of sale to verify customers are 21 or older. Individuals convicted of selling or providing alcohol to those under the age of 21 can face a maximum sentence of six months in jail and/or a $1,000 fine for each offense.

Permit holders also must ensure their staff is able to recognize signs of intoxication and refrain from serving customers who appear intoxicated. Liquor permit holders or staff who want to make sure they are educated on the most up-to-date rules and regulations on the sale and handling of alcohol should complete the Ohio Investigative Unit Alcohol Server Knowledge (ASK) course, which is available here free of charge.

Consumer Alcohol Reminders
If planning to go to an event where alcohol is served, adults are encouraged to eat and drink water beforehand and during the event, and pace alcohol consumption throughout the day. If consuming alcohol away from home, it's important to arrange for a designated driver or alternative transportation, such as making sure you have a ride share app downloaded on your mobile device or a taxi company's phone number saved in your phone.

Cannabis Use Reminders
Ohioans are also reminded that the use of marijuana, whether medical or non-medical, is prohibited on liquor permit premises. Under Ohio Administrative Code 4301:1-1-52, permit holders can receive citations if illegal drug use occurs on or near their property, which includes immediately outside the establishment.

Consumers are also reminded that, per the initiated statute approved by voters in November 2023, the use of non-medical cannabis in a public area is a minor misdemeanor. As a result, adults who choose to use cannabis should only do so in permitted private spaces and follow state and local laws.

Like alcohol, use of non-medical cannabis by individuals under the age of 21 is prohibited, and individuals who provide cannabis to minors can potentially face fines as well as possible jail time. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) can adversely affect developing brains, which continue maturing until the age of 25. Preventing access to cannabis products by children and teens is critical in protecting their safety and health.

"Given the large crowds these back-to-back events are expected to draw, it's essential for our permit holders and their staff to stay alert and prepared," said Division of Liquor Control Superintendent Jackie DeGenova. "When employees understand the rules, recognize concerning behavior, and prioritize safe service, they can help ensure these festive gatherings remain enjoyable for everyone. A well-trained team is one of the most effective tools we have in promoting responsible celebrations across Ohio."

"As excitement builds around this month's celebrations, it's important that adults who choose to use cannabis understand exactly where it is permitted," said Division of Cannabis Control Superintendent Jim Canepa. "By respecting and following these boundaries, Ohioans help ensure festivities remain enjoyable and lawful for everyone involved."

Additional information on the responsible consumption of alcohol and cannabis is available on the Ohio Department of Commerce's website at com.ohio.gov/Responsibility.

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About the Divisions of Liquor Control and Cannabis Control
The Division of Liquor Control and Division of Cannabis Control 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.