Are Extended Polling Hours good for Marijuana Advocates in Ohio?

By Chris Stewart

Ohio polls were scheduled to close at 7:30 statewide. However, in response to a last-minute motion filed by advocates for the passage of Ohio's controversial state constitutional amendment which would legalize marijuana, a Cincinnati judge heard arguments and ordered that polls open stay an extra ninety minutes.

The conflict concerned an electronic check in system used in Hamilton County, where Cincinnati is located. However, the additional time could give both opponents and supporters further opportunities to make their voices heard. The effect will not be immediately clear, as election results have also been put on hold until the Hamilton County polls have closed.

If the result of the initiative is close, this order could be fodder for a post-election challenged.  Stay tuned.